Bye Bye January!

Jackson Didn't Like January Either!

Well, today is the last day of the first month of 2009 and all I can say is, "Goodbye JANUARY!!!" This month has been terrible and I am hoping that February cannot be as bad. Between me being hormonal due to the progesterone I started taking for PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), Paul's traffic ticket, me hitting the garage and breaking the mirror on my fairly new car, and the economy just getting worse, meaning we are more scared than ever about the future, it can only go up from here right??? I am a pretty positive person, so tomorrow I am going to wake up to the first day of February with a fresh smile and outlook for 2009!

The one good thing that has happened this month, is that I discovered how much money I can really save with couponing and bargain shopping. I have always been a couponer, but never to this extreme. My husband cracks me up when he goes with me on my bargain trips because he is always in awe at how much I can save by matching the deals to coupons. Tonight he went with me to CVS, after we left he looked at me and said with a big smile on his face, "I am going to call you the Couponator!" I know it may not sound endearing to most people, but I know that he is truly impressed with my money saving abilities and he enjoys watching me in action!

CVS Purchases

CVS Transaction #1
(4) Gillette Fusion Gamer Razors: 7.99 - 4.00 coupon = 3.99 each

Total 15.96
Used $8 ECB
Total w/ taxes OOP: 9.40
Earned $16 ECB

CVS Transaction # 2
(2) 12pk Diet Mt Dew: 3.33 each
(1) 12pk Diet Pepsi: 3.33
(2) 2 liters Diet Pepsi: 1.25 each
(2) Lays Ruffles: 2.00 each
(2) Lays BBQ: 2.00 each

Total 20.50
Used $16 ECB
Total w/ Taxes OOP: 4.59
Earned $10 ECB

CVS Transaction # 3
(2) Apple Juices: 1.50 each
(1) Gallon Whole Milk: 4.59
(1) Xtra Laundry Detergent: 2.79

Total 10.38
Used $10 ECB
Total w/ Taxes OOP: .39

Total Before Coupons and Store Savings: 91.77
Total Spent after Taxes: $14.38
Percent Saved: 85%

$1 a Day per Person Food Challenge

Day 22: January 31, 2009

Breakfast
All of Us:
Brown Sugar Oatmeal Pancakes: $.60
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05

Snack
Jackson:
8oz Milk

Lunch
All of Us:
Burger King Picnic at the Park: Free (Gift Card)

Snack
Jackson
8oz Milk

Dinner
All of Us
Leftover Wacky Mac w/ Sauce: Free
Red Baron Pizza from Mom and Randy: Free

Snack
Cookies and Chips: 1.00

Total Spent for the Day: $1.60

Here are our food totals for yesterday:

Day 21: January 30, 2009

Breakfast
All of Us:
Brown Sugar Oatmeal Pancakes: $.60
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05

Snack
Jackson:
8oz Milk
Peaches and Cool Whip: Free

Lunch
Paul:
2 Hotdogs: .40
Popcorn: .30

Jackie and Jackson:
Breakfast for Lunch
Leftover Pancakes: Free
Cheerios: .50

Snack
Jackson and Jackie:
Popcorn: .30
8oz Milk

Dinner
All of Us
Wacky Mac: .29
Spagetti Sauce from Mamaw's: Free

Total Spent for the Day: $2.44

In the words of Stephanie Tanner, "How RUDE!"

I know I have been a bad blogger this week, but wow has this week been long and trying. It started off on Sunday with us returning from our trip to Kentucky. We had an amazing time, but anytime you are away from your home for the entire weekend is feels like you never really catch up in all the things you need to do.

My usual Tuesday off, I spent at the doctor's office so I never was able to get my couponing done. I have looked at some other great blogs and plan to make a trip to CVS tonight to get the razor deals and the Pepsi Deal.

I did make it to Kroger last night to pick up a few more Green Giant Steamers before the Buy 10 Get $5 off deal is over. I bought 40 Green Giant Coupons on Ebay last week for $6 and planned to stock up. We can always use veggies! I went on Tuesday and bought 10, but that is all they had and I was starting to get nervous that I may have bought the coupons and then there were not going to be 40 Steamers for me to buy. We needed milk and eggs last night, so I decided to pick up the additional 30 Steamers while I was there. I got the items I needed, picked up the Steamers and then proceeded to count the Steamers and coupons 3 time to make sure I had 30 of each.

Then I made my way to the only check out line they had open. I noticed that the cashier was the same lady I had earlier in the week when I bought 10 Steamers and she was annoyed then, so I knew she was going to be highly annoyed at my 30 Steamers and 30 coupons. The first thing she said in a condescending manner when I got up to the register was, "So I see some one most REALLY like their veggies!" I explained to her that while they are at such a great price how could I pass up the opportunity to get vegetables for so cheap. Once she got done ringing them up I handed her my coupons and she looked at me and barked, "Which newspaper stand did you rob???" I explained to her that I had gotten them from a coupon clipper on Ebay. At this point she and the grocery bagger starting laughing about how crazy people are to buy coupons on Ebay. She finally scans my last coupon and it beeps. I look at her and say, "You must have forgotten to scan one of my steamers because it only gave me $5 off twice not three times and the coupon beeped." She looks at me and hands me my one coupon that beeped! I said to her, "No I want you to ring up one more Steamer so I get my $5 off." By now she is extremely agitated and proceeds to take all my Steamers back out of the bags to count them, all the while mumbling about how I was holding up the line! Sure enough she counted the items and I was right, there were 30! After she scanned it, my total went from $15 to $11 after taxes.

This is the second bargain trip in a row where the cashier has made a big deal about my coupons. Not to mention, it was especially hard to deal with last night because my husband's company had their forth round of layoffs and we are terrified about him losing his job. Some of us HAVE to save money anyway we can and it is upsetting when people make you feel like the "Coupon Villain" for trying to save money! HOW RUDE!!!!

I am hoping to make it to CVS tonight to buy the Gillette razors and Pepsi products that I need. I will post later with my purchases from last night and tonight! Thank you to On my way to Being Debt Free one coupon at a time! for the heads up on the CVS Gillette razor limits. The paper says limit 1 per ExtraCare card, but she found out there is really a limit of five per ExtraCare card! I want to give an extra special thanks to her for taking the time to email me and let me know about this!

Here are our food totals for yesterday:

$1 a Day per Person Food Challenge

Day 20: January 29, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
Bowl of Lucky Charms: .15
1 cup milk: .20

Jackie:
Not feeling great, didn't eat! :(

Jackson:
Whole Grain Waffle and Lite Syrup: $.15
Strawberries: Free
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05

Snack
Jackson:
8oz Milk
Strawberries and Cool Whip: Free

Lunch
Paul:
Leftover Hamburger Helper: Free
3 Cookies: .15
Bag of Popcorn: .15

Jackie:
Chips w/ Huluva Good Dip: .20

Jackson:
Leftover Hamburger Helper: Free
Strawberries: Free
8oz Milk

Snack
Jackson:
Peaches: Free

Jackie:
Bowl of Cheerios: .40


Dinner
Paul:
2 BBQ Sandwiches .20
3 Cookies:.15

Jackie:
Leftover Rice and Beans: .36

Jackson:
Grammy's Soup: Free
8oz Milk


Total Spent for the Day: $2.16

Rebates, Bargain Trips, and More

I promised yesterday to make sure I blogged today about my recent bargain purchases. I will try and do my best, but I have been so exhausted lately that it may be hard to go into a lot of detail. I spent the last hour getting together rebates that need to be mailed by January 31, 2009. I still haven't really had the chance to sit down and look at my coupons and deals for the week, but I am hoping to do it tomorrow while the babies are napping. For now, here are the rebate offers that I was working on, Kroger Transaction, and our $1 a Day Food Challenge.

Rebate Offers
Diapers.com
P&G $120 Coupon Book
Colgate-Palmolive Travel Bag and Coupons
Pepsi and Frito Lay Coupons

Kroger Purchases

Kroger Transaction
2 loaves Kroger Bread (Manager Special): .69 each
3 Kroger Brown and Serve Rolls (Manager Special): .69
10 Green Giant Steamers: Free
1 Gallon Whole Milk: 3.18
1 Dreft Liquid Detergent: Free (Gifts to Grow Coupon)
Total Before Coupons and Store Savings:$41.52
Total Spent after Taxes: $7.63
Percent Saved: 83%

$1 a Day per Person Food Challenge

Day 19: January 28, 2009

Breakfast
All of Us:
2 eggs: .22
Cheese: Free

Paul:
English Muffin: .10

Jackson:
Oatmeal: .12
Strawberries: Free
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
3 slices Bologna: .30
4 slices Bread: .20
3 Kebbler Cookies: .15

Jackie:
Green Giant Broccoli and Rice: Free
Chips w/ Huluva Good Dip: .20

Jackson:
Leftover Taco Meat: Free
Grammy's Soup: Free
Strawberries: Free
8oz Milk

Snack
Jackson:
Gerber Fruit Chews: Free (Kroger Deal + Rebate)


Dinner
All of Us:
Hamburger Helper
Kit: .67
Meat: 1.00
Milk: .20

Total Spent for the Day: $3.16

Oh SOOO tired!

Still very behind on this week's deals. I am hoping to get around to it tomorrow. I did make it to Kroger today and will update tomorrow with the purchases. I am just to tired tonight to really do a good job at blogging. See you guys tomorrow!

$1 a Day per Person Food Challenge

Day 18: January 27, 2009

Breakfast
All of Us:
3 Buttermilk Biscuits: .30
2 eggs: .22
1 slice bologna: .08
Cheese: Free

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Bologna Sandwich: .30
3 Kebbler Cookies: .15

Jackie:
Baked Potato: Free from Mom
2 slices Homemade Bread: Free
3 Kebbler Cookies: .15

Jackson:
Slice of Bologna: .10
Cheese: Free
Strawberries from Grammy: Free
Slice of Randy's Bread: Free
8oz Milk

Snack
Jackson:
Gerber Fruit Chews: Free (Kroger Deal + Rebate)


Dinner
Taco Tuesday
All of Us:
Ground Turkey: 1.00
Taco Seasoning: .35
Tomato: .15
Lettuce: .20
Cheese: Free
Chips: .22

Total Spent for the Day: $3.07

Free Dr. Pepper

Thanks Coupon Mommie for the heads up on the Free Dr. Pepper! Click here to get your Free 20 oz or 2 Liter Dr. Pepper Coupon! WooHoo for free drinks!

Back from Mamaw's House

Mamaw and Me

We are back home after a great weekend visiting my Mamaw and family in Kentucky. We had a wonderful time and I was sad to leave. However, it is nice to be back in our daily routine with Jackson. He loved my Mamaw's huge house and Paul and I spent the majority of our time chasing after him. Thank goodness Paul took off of work and went with us because I sure couldn't have done it without him.

I know this may sound silly, but I actually had "coupon withdraw!" I didn't really have the time to look at coupons and without the internet there was no way to look up this week's deals, so I felt lost without my weekend couponing and now I feel behind in my bargain shopping. I did receive my Free Dreft coupon in the mail last week from Pampers Gifts to Grow and today I got the Green Giant Steamers Coupons in the mail that I bought on Ebay. I paid $6 for 40 Steamers coupons and since they are still on sale this week at Kroger, I am going to go get 40 more bags for free. I am hoping to have the time tonight or tomorrow to sit down and look at this week's deals. We need a few items like razors this week, so I need to figure out where to find them for little or no cost.

The family is back on our $1 a day Food Challenge today, after being able to eat the past few days like royalty at my Mamaw's. Paul felt like he was in "Hog Heaven" literally over the weekend because my Mamaw and Mom were feeding him anything and everything he wanted. I can't say I didn't enjoy it as well. The $1 a Day has not been so bad, but it definitely restricts what we can eat and how much we can eat. Not that this has been a bad thing becausePaul and I have both lost 6+ pounds in 2 weeks. WooHoo!!!

$1 a Day per Person Food Challenge

Day 17: January 26, 2009

Breakfast
All of Us:
3 Buttermilk Biscuits: .30
2 eggs: .22
1 slice bologna: .08
Cheese: Free

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Leftover Rice and Beans: .36
2 Slices Randy's Bread: Free
3 Keebler Cookies: .10

Jackie and Jackson:
Leftover Rice and Beans: .36
Progresso Chicken Noddle Soup: .15

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Snack
Jackie:
Chocolate Cake from Mamaw's: Free
Peaches: Free

Jackson:
Peaches: Free

Dinner
Paul:
3 slices Bologna: .30
4 slices Bread: .20
Leftover BBQ: Free

Jackie:
Green Giant Corn: Free
Keebler Cookies: .15

Jackson:
Momma's Homemade Soup: Free
Randy's Bread: Free
8oz Milk

Total Spent for the Day: $2.22

Hi, My name is Jackie and I am a Shopaholic!

I finally admitted to myself and my husband tonight that I am a shopaholic! Okay, okay some of you are saying "we already knew this," and the truth is I did too! I have never said it out loud before and finally did today. Before I gained all of my college weight I bought clothes whenever I had money, after I gained weight I was addicted to shoes, and before deciding to get out of debt, I was back to buying clothes all the time after discovering how much I love White House Black Market! Now that I am sticking to my "get out of debt plan," I am addicted to getting things for next to nothing or FREE! Is this a good addiction to have? I think so!!!

I made a quick trip to Bath and Body Works, Publix and Target tonight just because I needed makeup and thought I would pick up some items while I was out. At Target, I had my first encounter with a cashier who did not seem to care for my doubling coupons on one item (Target Coupon + Manufacture Coupon), so she called the manager over. By the time the manager explained to her that what I was doing was okay, she had mixed up all of my coupons meaning the manager had to redo the whole transaction. The manager was nice and took care of the problem, I was just a little upset because we are leaving out early in the morning and I needed to get home quickly to pack.

I also stopped by Bath and Body Works which is right next to Target. I needed body lotion for my "lotion obsession" as my friends call it. I used the online coupon to get one item for free with any purchase. I bought 2 $1 items and got my Body Cream for FREE. I felt pretty bad about not spending more to get my free item because I used to work at Bath and Body Works and I know I killed their ADS (Average Dollar Sale) for the evening. Oh well, gotta do what I gotta do and I needed lotion.

I then stopped off at Publix to get a few BOGO items. Publix is usually ridiculously expensive, but they have BOGO items each week, so when you combined the sale with coupons they have some great deals!

I am so looking forward to the weekend! This hasn't exactly been the best week, so I am ready to start over with a new one. But first we are going to my Mamaw's house for the weekend, which will be nice to see family that I do not get to see often. I will not be blogging or bargain shopping, so see you on Monday! Have a great weekend!

Bath and Body Works Transaction
Sweet Pea 2oz Shampoo: 1.00
C.O. Bigelow Lemon Body Lotion: 1.00
Rain Kissed Body Lotion: Free
Total w/ Taxes: 2.12
Total Savings: 22.00

Target Transaction
10 Ocean Spray Juices: Free
Cover Girl Makeup: 4.99
Total w/ Taxes: 6.63
Total Savings: 20.98

Publix Transaction
2 Keebler Sandies Cookies: 1.00 each
2 Keebler Chocolate Chip Cookies: 1.00 each
2 Heluva Dip: .50 each
Cheerios: .49
Total w/ Taxes: 5.47
Total Savings: 17.96

Total Before Coupons and Store Savings:$75.40
Total Spent after Taxes: $14.46
Percent Saved: 81%


Day 16: Tuesday, January 22, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
1 Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
1 Egg: .10

Jackie:
1 Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
1 Egg: .10

Jackson:
1 Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
1 Egg: .10
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Rice and Beans:.36
1/2 Banana: .17

Jackie and Jackson:
Rice and Beans .72
Steamers Veggies: Free

Snacks
Jackson:
Turkey Slices: Free w/ Kroger Coupon
8oz Milk

Paul:
Popcorn: .10

Jackie:
South Beach Bar: Free

Dinner
All of Us:
Steamer Veggies: Free
Pizza Rolls: .45
Rice and Beans: .72

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Total Spent for the Day: $3.12

Wonderful Wednesdays

I haven't had much time this week to blog or go bargain shopping, but I did make a quick trip to Kroger and Rite Aid last night. I have a few other places that I would like to make it to this week, but I am just not sure if it is possible. The family is going to my Mamaw's this weekend and we are leaving out early Friday morning, so there may not be enough time to make it to all the stores I would like to this week. Here is a breakdown of my trip last night!

Rite Aid Transaction:

1 Diet Coke 1.49
3 Huggies Baby Washes: 2.50 each
3 Huggies Lotions: 2.50 each
4 Huggies Wipes: 2.50 each

Used $5 off $25 purchase
Single Check Rebate of $2
Manufacture Coupons totaling $6
Kimberly Clark $10 Rite Aid Gift Card
Total Before Taxes and Coupons: 26.49
Total After Savings: 3.49
Percent Saved: 87%

Kroger Transaction:
8 Green Giant Steamers
2 Orville Redenbacher Popcorn Boxes
1 4pk Cottonelle Toilet Paper
2 Big K Diet Cola
1 Wacky Mac
1 Dozen Eggs
1 Gallon Skim Milk
Total Before Coupons and Store Savings:$33.50
Total Spent after Taxes: $10.99
Percent Saved: 68%

$1 a Day per Person Food Challenge

Day 15: January 21, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
1 Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
1 Egg: .10
Carolina Pride Sausage(BOGO + 1.50 Coupon): .07
1 Orange Juice: .15

Jackie:
1 Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
1 Egg: .10
Carolina Pride Sausage(BOGO + 1.50 Coupon): .07
Diet Big K: .10

Jackson:
1 Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
1 Turkey Slice: Free
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Progresso Soup: .15
Club Crackers: .15

Jackie:
Leftover Tacos: Free
Reese's Whipps Bar: Free
Diet Big K: .10

Jackson:
6 Pizza Rolls: .30
Leftover Tacos: Free
8oz Milk

Snack
Jackie:
South Beach Bar: Free

Jackson:
Turkey Slices: Free

Dinner
All of Us:
15 Bean Cajun Soup: 2.19
2 cups rice: .56
Sausage: .50
Total: 3.25 / 9 servings = .36 x 3= 1.08 for Dinner

Total Spent for the Day: $2.67

Day 14: Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
1/2 Banana: .17
Toaster Strudel: .20

Jackie:
Homemade Toast w/ Peanut Butter: .10

Jackson:
Homemade Toast: Free
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Progresso Soup: .15

Jackie and Jackson:
Leftover Soup from Grammy: Free
Leftover Cauliflower Mash Potatoes: Free

Snacks
Jackson:
Turkey Slices: Free w/ Kroger Coupon
Fruit Loops: .10
8oz Milk

Dinner
Taco Tuesday
All of Us:
Ground Turkey: 1.00
Black Beans: .57
Tomato: .45
Chips: .22

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Total Spent for the Day: $2.96

One DOWN, Four to GO!!!

Cutting Up the Credit Card

January 2009, kicked off the year that I planned to start working our way out of debt. I don't think I have ever divulged exactly how much debt we are in and I don't plan to give out the exact number, but I will say that we have 5 credit cards with balances on them. Two of them have what seems like massive balances, while three of them have balances under $300 dollars. We have decided to take the money we are saving by cutting back on our lifestyle and put it towards our debt. We are going to pay off the debt starting with the highest interest credit cards. Those are actually the credit cards with the lowest balances, so we will see progress immediately! As of yesterday I PAID OFF my Babies R Us card!!!! One down, four to go!!!

In other news, I spent the day at my Mom's house working on coupons and the deals for this week, so I will update later in the week with my bargain shopping trips!

Day 13: January 19, 2009

Jackson was with Grammy and Grandpa for breakfast, but Andrea was with us.

Breakfast

Paul:
Banana: .35

Jackie:

Skipped Breakfast b/c I was in a hurry!

Andrea:

Homemade Toast: Free

Lunch
Paul and I:
Leftover Wacky Mac: Free

Jackie and Jackson:

Lunch @ Grammy and Grandpa's House: Free

Snack

Jackie:

Kashi Bar: .11

Jackson:

Gerber Fruit Chews: Free

8oz Milk

Dinner
All of Us:
Leftover Soup from Grammy: Free

1/2 Package of Rolls (Manager Special): .35

Total Spent for the Day: $.81

Day 12: January 18, 2009

Jackson stayed at Grammy and Grandpa's House, meaning his food will not be posted. My sister Andrea was here though, so her food totals will be counted.

Breakfast

Paul:

Toaster Strudel: .20

Banana: .35

Jackie:

Homemade Toast w/ Peanut Butter: .10

Andrea:

Homemade Toast w/ Butter: .02

Lunch

Paul, Andrea, and I:

Mexican Buffet: Free (Gift Card)

Dinner

Paul, Andrea, and I:

Pizza Rolls: 1.20

Snack:

Chocolate Chip Cookies made by Grammy: Free

Total Spent for the Day: $1.87

Saturday, Day 11: Food Challenge

Day 11: January 17, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
English Muffin: .10
Orange Juice: .15

Jackson:
Homemade Toast: Free
Apple Juice/Water: .05
1/2 Banana: .17
8oz Milk

Jackie:
Skipped Breakfast to go to Aqua Aerobics


Lunch
Paul:
Chili and Baked Potato:.32

Jackie:
Chili and Baked Potato: .32

Jackson:
Chili and Baked Potato: .32
8oz Milk

Snacks
Jackie:
Homemade Bread: Free

Jackson:
Homemade Bread: Free

Dinner
All of Us:
Veggie Soup w/ Cornbread @ Mom's House: Free

Snack:
Movie Night
Popcorn: .50

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Total Spent for the Day: $1.93

Yay for Fridays!

I absolutely LOVE Fridays because it means Paul is going to be home for the next two days and not have to go to work! After 8.5 years together, I still get excited everyday when I know he is on his way home and I still look forward to the weekends when I know we can spend all of our time together! Today was actually an extra special Friday because Jackson woke us up at 6:15am and Paul was able to spend an hour with us before work! Yay for Fridays!!!

I received my order of diapers and wipes this morning and I have to tell you that it was nice to have them delivered directly to our door. The package weighed 30lbs, so I was shocked that Diapers.com sent it 2-day shipping with UPS for FREE. I am sure I will be ordering with them again as long as they continue to have Free Shipping and the $10 off deal. Now I just have to fill out the rebate to receive $14.97 back, making my total cost for a box of Pampers Extra Large Case of diapers and Pampers 770 wipes $44.01. What a great deal!

I also met another Mommy friend, her husband, and their son for lunch today at Atlanta Bread Company. I used my American Express gift card, so lunch for Jackson and I is considered free. It was nice to get out of the house. When we are penny pinching as much as we are, it often feels like we are confined to the house and after awhile I get "cabin fever." I am hoping once Spring comes that there will be some free entertainment in my area and plus we will be able to go to the park down the road from our house.

While out, I stopped off to pick up my prescription from Target. I used one of the coupons out of the paper to get a $10 Target gift card on a transferred prescription. My prescription was $4 and I picked up Paul the generic Claritin-D making my total OOP $15.79. I then used my gift card to buy 2 12pks of Diet Dr. Pepper, Valentine's Little Debbie Cakes (a surprise for Paul), and bananas. I still have $1.02 on the gift card, but I have to go back and get 2 gallons of milk (my Mommy brain forgot to get it while I was there.) If I had remembered we needed milk, I probably would not have gotten the Diet Dr. Pepper and used the gift card for the necessities! I guess I can always return the drinks to get the milk, but I REALLY wanted those drinks to feed my caffeine addiction...lol! I'll keep you posted on what I decide to do!

Day 10: January 16, 2009

Breakfast
All of Us:
Brown Sugar Oatmeal Pancakes: $.60
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05
Milk: Free (Kroger Deal)

Lunch
Paul:
Can of Progresso Soup(Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.15
South Beach Diet Bar: Free

Jackie and Jackson:
Atlanta Bread Company: Gift Card

Snacks
Jackie:
Homemade Bread: Free

Jackson:
1/4 Homemade Smoothie: .22

Dinner
All of Us:
Mexican Resturant: Gift Card

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Total Spent for the Day: $1.02

$1 a day Per Person Food: One Week Later

The whole point of me writing this blog is to share with everyone the ups and downs of trying to save money and get out of debt. The idea to blog originally came to my mind when I read about a couple who had decided to eat for only $1 a day for 30 days and blog about their experience. I wanted to not only take on their challenge, but to take it many steps further. As many of you know, Paul and I are a young couple in our late 20s, with a 14 month old son. We also are like many other Americans and have what seems like a massive amount of debt related to our college years. Not to mention, we have student loan debt, a mortgage, and a car payment! We have talked for the last few years about getting out of debt, but we never knew where to start. So after reading about eating for $1 a day, I decided to see if that was possible in order to save money that can be applied towards our debt!


We are now on day 9 of the $1 a day challenge and I have to say that it has not been as hard as I thought it would be. I am definitely relying heavily on coupons and the fruits that we saved last Summer in my mother's freezer. This challenge has not however been without a few wake up calls. I noticed about day 4 that I probably was not feeding my son as many fruits and vegetables as he should be getting for a growing child. I also realized how poorly I eat myself due to always feeling like I am in a rush. I immediately decided I was going to try and make a more conscious effort to provide healthier more well balanced meals.

The other emotions that this challenge has brought out, is having to be less prideful! What I mean by this, is that after typing each day what foods we eat and where they come from, I saw just how much my Mom and Stepdad give us in terms of food. Paul and I both pride ourselves on the fact that everything we have we have done or earned ourselves, so when you see just how much others really do contribute to your life you come to the realization that no matter how rough times get there are always those who love you to get you through, both physically and mentally. We are both blessed with families who are always there to support us and try to lend a helping hand where ever they can!

And lastly, after a week of eating for $1 a day, I can report that I have already lost 5lbs. Who would have thought that saving money and trying to get out of debt would be a great diet? I sure wouldn't have believed you if you told me this was going to happen. The impression that many people get is that eating on a budget makes you fat and I can tell you this is NOT TRUE! Like many others, Paul and I definitely have some weight to lose. We both love eating seconds and enjoying going out to eat a couple days a week. Now we can no longer do either of those, nor can we snack all day long! Maybe after a year of this diet, I will be thinner and more financially stable!!!

Day 9: January 15, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
1 egg: .10

Jackie:
Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
1 egg: .10
Water

Jackson:
1/2 Buttermilk Biscuit: .10
Strawberries and Blueberries: Free
1/2 Banana: .12
Apple Juice/Water: .05

Snack
Jackie:
1/4 Homemade Smoothie: .22

Jackson:
1/4 Homemade Smoothie: .22
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Client Lunch: Free

Jackie:
Leftover Wacky Mac and Marinara Sauce: Free
Water

Jackson:
Leftover Wacky Mac and Marinara Sauce: Free
8oz Milk

Snacks
Jackie:
1 Kashi Bars: .11

Jackson:
1/4 Homemade Smoothie: .22

Dinner
All of Us:
Baked Potato with Chili
Baked Potatoes: .60
Meat: 1.00
Tomato Sauce .40
Kidney Beans .57
=Chili per Serving: .32
Chili Serves 6: Will add serving cost to lunchs tomorrow instead of all cost to the dinner tonight.

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Snack:
Paul:
Peanut Butter Cookie: Free (Betty Crocker Coupon)
Hershey Kisses: Free (After Christmas Sale + Coupon)

Total Spent for the Day: $3.00

Suze Orman's 2009 Action Plan Book for Free

Today is the last day to download Suze Orman's lastest book for free on Oprah.com. I just downloaded my copy and you should too! In this economy, we could all use some advice on what to do with our money or in my case how to get out of debt, so why not start by getting the book for FREE.

Diaper Duty

I placed an order with Diapers.com today for Pampers diapers for Jackson. I found this deal on Melissa's Bargain Blog and had to jump at the opportunity to save money. Pampers diapers cost about $.33 a diaper if purchased at the store. With this deal, they break down to about $.26 a diaper before the mail in rebate. Heres the scoop!

1. Go to Diapers.com.

2. Pick out your items of $50 or more to receive FREE SHIPPING.

3. Proceed to the checkout.

4. Use the code RW8161 if you are a new customer or RESOLUTION if you are a returning customer to receive $10 off

5. Go to this website and send off for a $14.97 Rebate from Parenting Magazine.

6. And if you purchase Pampers products, go to Proctor and Gamble to receive a coupon booklet with $120 worth of coupons for purchasing $50 worth of P&G items.

My Transaction:
Pampers Baby Fresh Wipes - 770 Count Refill: $25.99
Pampers Cruisers Extra Large Case Diapers Size: Size 5 $42.99
Total Before Coupon Code: $68.98
Total After Coupon Code and Mail-In Rebate: $44.01

$1 a Day per Person Food Challenge

Day 8: January 14, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
Bowl of Lucky Charms: Free
1 Glass Milk: Free

Jackie:
1 slice of Homemade Bread: Free
1 tbsp Peanut Butter: .05
Apple Juice: .05

Jackson:
1/2 Banana: Free
1 slice Homemade Bread: Free
Apple Juice/ Water: .05
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Client Lunch: Free

Jackie:
Leftover Tacos: Free
Water

Jackson:
Leftover Tacos: Free
1/2 slice Homemade Bread: Free
8oz Milk

Snacks
Jackie:
2 Kashi Bars: .22

Jackson:
1/2 Banana and Strawberry Smoothie: .15

Dinner
All of Us:
Wacky Mac: .19
Marinara sauce: .89
1/2 Pack Brown and Serve Rolls: .35
Salad:.40

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Snack:
Paul:
Peanut Butter Cookie: Free (Betty Crocker Coupon)
Hershey Kisses: Free (After Christmas Sale + Coupon)

Total Spent for the Day: $2.35

Free Suave Product

Today only, you can register to get a coupon for a free Suave Product up to a $3 value! Click here to go directly to the website! I have registered for mine, now it's your turn! Happy Wednesday!

Taco Tuesday

Today was my day "off" if that is what you want to call it. I am not exactly sure stay-at-home Moms ever really have a day off. However, I did not have Jacob today, so today is my day to try and run all the errands I have for the week. I started off with Target, then went to the bank, and then did my monthly grocery shopping at Kroger. I had intentions to stop at Publix for a few items that are BOGO this week, but Jackson was starting to have a meltdown by the time we were on our way there, so I decided to save Publix for later in the week.

I didn't save as much percentage wise as my last few transactions, but that is because I bought a lot of Kroger brand items. About half of the time, the Kroger brand is cheaper than the name brand even with a coupon that doubles. I was pretty impressed with the amount of groceries that I got for the money that I spent. They should last us the whole month in combination with the foods that I already have. My goal for this weekend is to make out a menu and I will post that as soon as I get it completed.

Here is the breakdown of my transactions from today! By the way, I only give the prices of my great deals, unfortunately I don't have the time to type up the whole receipt.

Target Transaction
Baby Shower Gift
Shoestrings
2 Kashi Soft Baked Bars = .66 ($2 off Coupon)
2 Totinos Pizza Rolls = .64 ($1 off Coupon)
Water Bottle for Jackson
Total Before Coupons and Store Savings:$20.79
Total Spent after Taxes: $14.09



Kroger Transaction
Sandwich Bags
2 French's Onions
8 3pk Dial Soap Bars = .30 each
Vegetable Oil
2 Carolina Pride Sausage
2 Bags Frozen Fries
4 Suave Conditioners = .30 each
4 Toaster Strudel = 1.20 each
2 Bars Kroger Tortilla Chips = 1.00 each
2 Packages Hot Dogs
3 No Yolk Noodles = .29 each
5 Suave Deodorants = .30 each
Aquafresh Trial Size Toothpaste = Free
6 Hamburger Helpers = .70 each
2 Lite Whipped Toppings
Ketchup
Dannon Yogurt
Pan Spray
2 Wacky mac Noodles = .19 each
5 Oscar Mayer Bologna = 1.00 each
4 Old El Paso Taco Seasoning
4 Chili Seasoning
2 Keebler Club Crackers
2 Cream of Mushroom Soup
4 Light Red Kidney Beans =.57 each
4 Tomato Paste
Lettuce
4lbs Bananas
Peanut Butter
2 Hot Dog Buns (Manager's Special) = .59 each
2lbs Tomatoes
2 Brown and Serve Rolls (Manager's Special) = .69 each
6 Black Beans = .57 each
2 Mini Carrots = 1.00 each
2 16 Bean Soup
4 Dark Kidney Beans = .57 each
5 Spaghetti Sauce
Hamburger Buns (Manager's Special) = .59 each
6 4pk Cottonelle Toilet Paper = Free
Orange Juice
10lb Bag of Rice = 7.99
Total Before Coupons and Store Savings:$180.56
Total Spent after Taxes: $100.97
Total Out of Pocket (OOP) after remainder on Giftcard: $86.27
Percent Saved: 44%

$1 a Day per Person Food Challenge

Day 7: January 13, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
2 Cinnamon Rolls: Free (Kroger Mail Coupon)
1 Glass Milk

Jackie:
1 Cinnamon Roll: Free
Apple Juice: .05

Jackson:
1 Cinnamon Roll: Free
Homemade Apple Sauce: Free (Apples picked at Mom's friend's orchard)
Apple Juice/ Water: .05
8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Client Lunch: Free

Jackie:
English muffin: .10
Cheese: .05

Jackson:
Slice of Bread made by Grandpa: Free
Turkey: Free (Kroger Mail Coupon)
Cheese: .05
Strawberries: Free (Frozen from Summer 08)

Snacks
Jackie:
2 Kashi Bars: .22

Jackson:
1/2 Banana: .15
8oz Milk

Dinner
Taco Tuesday
All of Us:
Ground Turkey: 1.00
Black Beans: .57
Tomato: .45
Chips: .22

Jackson:
8oz Milk

Snack:
Paul:
Peanut Butter Cookie: Free (Betty Crocker Coupon)
Hershey Kisses: Free (After Christmas Sale + Coupon)

Jackie:
1/4 cup Yogurt: .10
Blueberries and Peaches: Free (Frozen from Summer 08)
Total Spent for the Day: $3.01

A Case of the "Mondays"

Wow, did I have a case of the "Mondays" today! I absolutely hate Mondays because it means Paul has to work the next 5 days. I truly miss him during the day and wish he could be a stay-at-home Dad, but we haven't exactly figured out how to make the money situation work if he stays home...lol!

I am really don't have a lot to post today about my debt-free mission. I have made out my plan of "attack" for the grocery store this week, just not sure which day I am going to have time to go shopping. And I promise to explain my Save $10,000 in 2009 Challenge when I am not so tired. I definitely think that it is possible, even for people like Paul and I who do not have a whole lot of extra expenditures, such as Starbucks and going to lunch at work.

$1 a day Per Food Challenge Person

Day 6: January 12, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:

1 Buttermilk Biscuit: $.10
1 egg: $.10
1 glass of milk: Free

Jackie:

1 Buttermilk Biscuit: $.10

1 egg: $.10
Apple Juice: $.10

Jackson:

1 Buttermilk Biscuit: $.10

1 egg: $.10
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05
8oz Milk

Lunch

Paul:

Can of Progresso Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.15
1 Reese's Whipped Bar (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): Free

Jackie:

2/3 can of Progresso Chicken Noodle Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.10

Jackson:

1/3 can Progresso Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.05
Leftover Mash Potatoes and Broccoli: Free
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05
8oz Milk

Snack
Jackie:
2 South Beach Diet Protein Bars (Free after Walgreens deal): Free

Jackson:
2 Servings Homemade Apple Sauce (My Mom picked the apples at a friend’s house): Free

Dinner

All of Us:

Kashi Tomato Garlic Cheese Pizza: Free
Leftover Shake and Bake Chicken: FreeDessertPeanut Butter Blossom Cookies: $.25
Total Spent for the Day: $1.35

Turkeys say, "Gobble Gobble"

Moe Thinks Coupons Are Boring

Today started off with the whole family getting up earlier, so we could make it to church by 8:30AM. Paul, Andrea, and I stayed up pretty late trying to figure out how to fix the computer. One of the hinges broke a while back, but last night the second hinge broke on the laptop. We would like to just replace the case, but we are not sure if that is possible. Let's hope it is because buying a new laptop is not exactly in the budget.

Back to today. After we left church, we stopped at Kroger so that I could stock up on Lean Ground Turkey. This week it is 10 for $10 for 1lb, which you can not beat! So, I bought 40lbs! Not to mention it was purchased with the gift card we received for Christmas from Paul's parents, so there was no out of pocket expense. I know these may seem a little extreme, but we will definitely eat it and I am actually thinking about buying more. Some of you know this about me, but I don't eat red meat, so any time white meat goes on sale I stock up. Blame my Mom for finding me a deep freeze on her school system website for my obsession with stockpiling foods. And did I mention the deep freezer was FREE!! Yes, FREE to whomever showed up to pick it up first!

The rest of my day was spent with my stepdad, Randy and I trying to work on my webpage design. We are still working on it, so stay tuned!

I also planned my grocery list for the month and clipped lots of coupons to go with it, so I will definitely post about my first bargain grocery trip later this week.

Turkeys say Gobble Gobble

My Turkey Transaction:
40 1lb Honeysuckle 93/7 Lean Ground Turkey = $40
2 6pk English Muffins = $.59 each (Manager's Special)

Total Before Coupons and Store Savings:$103.40
Total Spent after Taxes: $41.39
Percent Saved: 60%

Used Gift Card Meaning $0.00 OOP


$1 a day Per Person Food Challenge
Day 5: January 11, 2009

Breakfast:
Paul:
2 pieces of toast w/ 1tbsp butter: $.10

Jackie:
South Beach Cereal Bar: Free

Jackson:
Whole Grain Waffle and Lite Syrup: $.15
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05

Lunch:
All of Us:
Fabulous Sunday Lunch at my Mom's and Randy's House: Free

Dinner:
All of Us:
Leftovers from Lunch: Free

Total Spent for the Day: $.30

Super Saturdays

Paul and I started the day off nicely with Jackson letting us sleep in til 9:00AM. I think we wore him out last night with all of the bargain shopping. We then spent the day debating whether or not to try and rake up the leaves in the yard. Needless to say, we never did do it because of the rain.

We did however, go to Paul's office so I could print off some coupons that were giving me the message that I had printed off my max amount. We then decided to grab lunch out using the gift card Paul earned at work by writing a book report on 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I am not sure if I mentioned this before, but we are not counting gift cards in our food totals for each day because that is not money coming out of our pocket directly.

Drying Coupons in the Dryer

Another interesting thing that I did today, was to dry wet coupons in the dryer. Paul and my mother think that I am crazy, but I couldn't possibly throw away good coupons just because they got rained on!

Andrea and I with Our Bargain Purchases

Later tonight, my sister Andrea and I took the coupons I had printed earlier in the day and went for one last trip to Target, CVS, and Walgreens. Now I know you may be thinking how am I going to save money if I keep spending it. I believe I now have enough dish detergent for the next 2/3 of the year, shampoo for 6 months, toothpaste for the next 6 months, etc. So the savings come later.

My Transactions:
Target
4 Electrasol = $.75 each
4 Johnson and Johnson Buddie Bars = +$.03 overage each
Total with Tax: $3.89
Total Savings: $18.16

CVS Transaction # 1
1 Colgate Total = $.37
1 Colgate Kids = $.37 (Earned $2 ExtraCare Bucks)
Total with Tax: $.80
Total Savings:$3.83

CVS Transaction # 2
2 CVS Brand Apple Juice = $.44 each
1 AJC Newspaper = $2.00
Used $2 ExtraCare Bucks
Total with Tax: $.90
Total Savings: $6.30

Walgreens
2 Progresso Soups = $.15 each
2 Boxes South Beach Diet 100 Calorie Bars = $.50
1 Garnier Shampoo = Free
1 Garnier Hairspray = Free
Total with Tax: $.1.79
Total Savings:$19.36

Total Before Coupons and Store Savings:$54.76
Total Spent after Taxes: $7.38
Percent Saved: 87%


$1 a day Per Person Food Challenge

Day 4: January 10, 2009

Breakfast
All of Us:
Brown Sugar Oatmeal Pancakes: $.60
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05
Milk: Free (Kroger Deal)

Lunch
All of Us:
Mexican Buffet w/ Drinks Included: Free (Used Gift Card from Paul's Work)

Snack
Jackie:
South Beach Diet Bar: Free (Walgreens Deal)

Jackson:
2 Gerber Apple Cereal Bars: Free (Purchased by my Mom)


Dinner
All of Us:
Chick-fil-a: Free (Used coupons for sandwich and strips from Chick-Fil-A Bowl)

2 Drinks: $2.25

Total Spent for the Day: $2.90

More Free Stuff + Great Coupons

I am definitely glad that it is Friday! I have to say that my day was much better than yesterday. Jackson has been in a much better mood and Jacob didn't get here until 1:00PM and both boys went to sleep at 3:00PM for their afternoon nap. Hooray for NAPS!!!

I started the morning off by making a quick Bargain Shopping trip to Walgreens, Target, and CVS. My plan didn't go exactly the way I wanted it to because I forgot one of my coupons at home, one coupon was expired, and one of the items I wanted to purchase they were out of. I ended up going back later in the evening to Walgreens and Target again, plus I had to stop at PetSmart for food for Moe.

Overall, I felt like I got a lot of good items today. I am in the process of stockpiling items that we need, so in the coming months I will not have to buy these things that I already have purchased at huge discount prices.

I also had an idea today to try and see if we could save $10,000 in 2009. I am not talking about putting actual money in savings, but rather to save money on everyday items and our expenditures from last year and put it towards debt and possibly put some of it in savings or at least stop from depleting the savings like we did inn 2008. I will try to go into more detail about this challenge in a post this weekend. To be honest, it is almost midnight and the whole house is asleep (including the dog, Moe) except for me! When I am more refreshed I will detail my Save $10,000 in 2009 Challenge, what exactly I mean by it, and how I plan to do it!

My Transactions:

Walgreens Transaction #1

2 Garnier Shampoos = Free

1 Garnier Hairspray = Free

2 Reese's Whipped bars = Free

6 Boxes South Beach Cereal bars = $3 ($5 Mail-In Rebate = $1.17 overage)

Total w/ Taxes: $3.83

Total Savings: $22.59

Walgreens Transaction # 2

2 Garnier Shampoos = Free

2 Garnier Hairsprays = Free

6 Reese's Whipped bars = Free

1 Gallon Whole Milk = $3.19

Total w/ Taxes: $4.00

Total Savings: $21.96

Target Transaction # 1

3 Electrosol Geltabs = $.75 each

Total w/ taxes: $2.84

Total Savings: $10.62

Target Transaction #2

4 Electrosol Geltabs = $.75 each

1 Purell = $2.54

7 Johnson and Johnson Bubbies Soap Bars = +$.03 overage each after Printable Coupon

Total w/ taxes: $6.67

Total Savings: $21.16

CVS Transaction #1

1 Garnier Shampoo = $2.99 ($2 ExtraCare Bucks Earned)

2 CVS Brand Apple Juice = $.44 each ($3 off CVS Brand Coupon pg. 14)

Total w/ taxes: $ 2.95

Total Savings: $6.60

CVS Transaction # 2

2 Colgate Toothpaste = $1.75 each ($2 ExtraCare Bucks Earned)

1 Pert Plus = $2.50

Used $2 ExtraCare Bucks

Total w/ Taxes: $4.33

Total Savings: $6.57

CVS Transaction # 3

2 Palmolive Dish Liquids = $.62 each

2 Progresso Soups = $.99 each

Used $2 ExtraCare Bucks

Total w/ taxes: $1.49

Total Savings: $7.73

PetSmart Transaction

Science Diet 5lb Dog Food = $6.99 (Science Diet Coupon)

Earned $3off Next Purchase Coupon

Total w/ taxes:$7.71

Total Savings: $5.00

Total Before Coupons and Store Savings: $136.05

Total Spent After Taxes: $33.82

Percent Saved: 75%

$1 a day Per Person Food Challenge

Day 3: January 9, 2009

Breakfast
Paul:
2 Slices of Toast w/ Butter $.10
1 glass milk (Free with cereal purchase at Kroger): Free

Jackie:
1 Brownie: $.10

1/2 Diet Coke: $.15

I know this is a horrible breakfast, but what can I say, I was in a hurry! :(

Jackson:
Whole Grain Waffle and Lite Syrup: $.15

Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05

8oz Milk

Lunch
Paul:
Can of Progresso Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.15
5 saltine crackers: $.10

2 Reese's Clusters (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.10

Jackie:
2/3 can of Progresso Chicken Noddle Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): : $.10

Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Manager's Special bread): $.15

1/2 Diet Coke and Water $.15

Jackson:
1/3 can Progresso Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.05

1/2 Grilled Cheese Sandwich: $.07

Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05

8oz Milk

Snack

Jackie:

2 South Beach Diet Protein Bars (Free after Walgreens deal): Free

Jackson:

1/2 Grilled Cheese Sandwich: $.07

8oz Milk

Dinner
All of Us:
3 Turkey Burgers: $.70
Potato Wedges: $.60
2 Hamburger Buns (Manager's Special): $.15
=$.48 a person

Dessert
3 Junior Wendy's Frosty: Free with Trick of Treating Coupons

Total Spent for the Day: $2.99

Cutting My Baby's Hair

Before Picture

After Picture

I gave my little boy a "big boy haircut" tonight. He has needed a haircut for a couple weeks now, but since getting it cut by a stylist cost about $18 I decided to do it myself. I have been cutting my husband's hair for 8 years now to save money. I have to admit that I am a little sad that I cut his "baby hair" and now he looks like a big boy, but I know it will grow out in a few weeks. He looks just as precious as ever!

Total Savings: $18

If Bald were a Good Look for Me, I would have Pulled My Hair Out By Now

Wow, what a day! The best part is, that it is only 1:30PM and I am already about to pull my hair out. I am sure we all have these days and today is the day that I am having mine! Both boys (Jackson and Jacob) are being incredibly fussy and demanding, which means I only have 2 arms, but I need about 8! I am trying to be optimistic and tell myself that it can only get better. All I can say is tonight is definitely a night that I am going to the gym as soon as Paul gets home.

On a different note, I was very excited to go get the free paper that is delivered to my house ever Thursday because I knew it would have coupons in it. Sure enough, it had 3 sets and one of those sets had the Electrosol $2.50 Off coupon in it, so that means another box of FREE dishwashing detergent. I have also been checking out the Taylortownpreview.com site because they post all of the coupon ads that will be in Sunday's paper early, meaning I can get a job start on planning my Extreme Bargain Hunting shopping trips.

I did about 8 loads of laundry yesterday, meaning I am almost out of laundry detergent. If there is not some super deal that I can find to get detergent for Free this weekend, I am going to make my own. That should be interesting, but it makes each load of laundry cost about $.01. The recipe that I plan to use is one that I got from the Duggar Family Website.

Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap

Front or top load machine
4 Cups hot tap water

1 Fels-Naptha soap bar

1 Cup Washing Soda

½ Cup Borax

- Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted.
-Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover and let sit overnight to thicken.
-Stir and fill a used, clean, laundry soap dispenser half full with soap and then fill rest of way with water. Shake before each use. (will gel)
-Optional: You can add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons. Add once soap has cooled. Ideas: lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil.
-Yield: Liquid soap recipe makes 10 gallons.
-Top Load Machine- 5/8 Cup per load (Approx. 180 loads)

Also, yesterday was our first day of trying to eat for $1 a day per person. It wasn't so bad, especially with all of the great deals I got on Monday. Paul even told me that my "Chicken Teriyaki" was excellent. Not that he ever complains about what I make for dinner, but I rarely get an "excellent" review. Please remember Jackson's milk is not factored into the meal totals.

Day 2: January 8, 2009

Breakfast

Paul:

2 Blueberry Muffins: $.20

1 glass milk (Free with cereal purchase at Kroger): Free

Jackie:

1 Blueberry Muffin: $.10

1/2 Brownie: $.05

1/2 Diet Coke: $.15

Jackson:

1 Blueberry Muffin: $.10

Juice/Water $.05

8oz Milk

Lunch

Paul:

Can of Progresso Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.15

5 saltine crackers: $.10

1 cup Brown Rice (leftovers): Free

Jackie:

1 1/2 cup Brown Rice (leftovers): Free

1 cup Broccoli and Cauliflower (leftovers): Free

Brownie: $.10

Jackson:

Can of Progresso Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.15

1/2 cup Brown rice and 1/2 cup corn (leftovers): Free

Juice/Water: $.05

8oz Milk

Dinner

Breakfast for Dinner Night

Brown Sugar Oatmeal Pancakes $.60

My Mom's Recipe:

1 egg beaten

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 cup skim milk

1/2 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup all purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons quick cooking oats

In a mixing bowl, combine egg, oil, and milk. Combine flours, baking soda, salt and brown sugar. Add to egg mixture. Stir in oats. Pour 1/3 cupfuls onto a lightly greased pan. Makes about 6 medium pancakes.

6 Slices Turkey Bacon $.60

2 Eggs with Cheese $.22

=$.48 per person

Dessert

Paul:

Brownie with Ice Cream $.30

Total Spent for the Day: $2.94

Eating for $1 a day Per Person

I thought I would blog for a few minutes while Jackson is napping and before Jacob gets here (the 6 month old that I watch during the day.) I have been looking at other Mom's websites and I am really hoping that my step dad Randy will help me set up a really nice website so I can put lots of information about our journey to lead a similar life, while trying to get out of debt.

My husband, Paul and myself have decided to try and eat for as little as possible. We are hoping to stick to around $1 a day per person. I got this idea from another couple who blogged about a 30 day $1 a day challenge and from fact that the government only gives about $1 a day in food stamps for those on government aid. I am curious as to if it is possible to really eat for this amount of money and not have to sacrifice on nutrition. Our 1 year old Jackson, however will not have his milk included in these totals for the day because we all know milk is expensive and he needs it. I guess the main challenge is going to be in the meals that I cook and having Paul and I eat only one serving, so we then have leftovers for lunches. Some of you know that I am not the best cook, but I am going to try and get creative, plus find great bargains on food.

My plan is to log each meal and what it cost, so everyone else can see if we are successful in our $1 a day per person food challenge.

Day 1: January 7, 2009

Breakfast

Paul:
Bowl of Lucky Charms and 1 cup milk: $.25
Coffee: Free at Work

Jackson:
Whole Grain Waffle and Lite Syrup: $.15
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05

Jackie:
Instant Grits and 1tsp butter: $.10
Half a Diet Coke: $.15

Lunch

Paul:
Can of Progresso Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.15
5 saltine crackers: $.10
2 Reese's Clusters (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.10
Water

Jackie:
2/3 can of Progresso Chicken Noodle Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): : $.10
Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Manager's Special bread): $.15
1/2 Diet Coke and Water $.15

Jackson
1/3 can Progresso Soup (Bargain Buy at Walgreens): $.05
1/2 Grilled Cheese Sandwich: $.07
Half Apple Juice/Half Water: $.05

Dinner

All of Us:
Grilled Chicken (From my Mom's freezer when they went Vegan): Free
1 1/2 cups Brown Rice $.50
Teriyaki marinade (Publix BOGO+Manufacture Coupon): Free
Steamed Veggie Medley: $.50
= $.33 a person

How I Get Free Items

A lot of people have asked me how I get stuff for free, so I have decided to start blogging about it. Unfortunately, with a 1 year old I have very limited time, so I won't be able to go into as much detail as other bloggers do. If you want major details on how to get tons of free stuff or discounted items check out this lady's blog, she goes into great detail and I basically follow her lead. The link is http://melziemomsbargains.blogspot.com/

Pretty much what I do is buy the Sunday paper and clip all of the coupons. I then organize them and wait for the items to go on sale at various stores. Many of the items that go on sale also have a coupon offered by the store, which they allow you to combined with the manufacture coupon that I got from the paper or the internet.

Plus, you can now load coupons on to your customer cards (ex. Kroger Plus Card) at various stores at either www.pgesaver.com or www.shortcuts.com. The store then gives you the savings from the Esaver, store sale, and the manufacture coupon. This makes the items free or very little in cost.

I will admit that this process can be time consuming, but I happen to find it quite fun to walk away with a trunk full of stuff that I paid very little for. Plus, I love saving money!

Just a Few of the Ways I thought of to Save Money to Put Towards Debt

Penny Pinching Our Way to a Debt Free Life

Ways to save:
Clothes Line Saves: $70 per year
Cloth Diapers or getting Diapers from the Pregnancy Center Saves $50 monthly
Make our own Laundry detergent Saves: $60 per year
Cut my Hair
Grow a Garden
Drink Water Not Diet Cokes Saves $40 monthly
Make my own All-Purpose Cleaner Saves: $50 per year
No Dining Out Saves: $25 monthly
Free Entertainment Saves: $25 monthly
Library Books
Making Gifts
Shopping Yard Sales
Reuse Ziploc bags Saves $5 monthly
Cut off cable Saves $50 monthly
Cancel Gym Membership Saves $40 monthly

These are just a few of the ways I have thought of to save money that can be applied to our debt. If any one has any suggestions please feel free to pass them my way!

My First Extreme Bargain Hunting Trip

Yesterday, I made my first bargain shopping trip. I have been planning this trip since Saturday, January 3, by organizing and clipping coupons, researching the internet to find out which stores had the best deals, and which store coupons I could match with manufacture coupons in order to get items for free or little cost. Overall, this was about a 10 hour process, but it was well worth it to save as much money as I did. Here are the items that I bought and which stores they were purchased at.

January 5, 2009 Bargain Shopping

Walgreens
2 Garnier Shampoos = Free
4 Progresso Soup = $.60
2 Reynolds Wraps = Free
3 Softsoaps = $.64 each
2 Reese’s Clusters
3 Wrigley’s Extra Gum
2 Hershey’s 100 Calorie Bars
1 Mott’s Apple Juice = $.79
3 AA 4-pack of Duracell Batteries = 2.25 each
1 Aquafresh Toothpaste
4 Quaker Instant Oats = $.99 each
Total w/ Taxes: $25.63
Total Savings: $63.20


Kroger Transaction # 1
o 3 Kellogg’s Cereals
o 1 Gallon Whole Milk = Free
o 4 Chunky Soups
o 1 Dozen Eggs = $1.35
o 1 24pack Diet Coke = $5.99
o 1 Special K Waffles = $.50
o 1 Colgate Toothpaste = $.50
o 2 Always Pads = $.50 each
o 1 Bag French Fries
o 1 Pillsbury Sweet Rolls = Free
o 1 General Mills Cereal = Free
o 1 Tombstone Pizza = Free
o 1 Oscar Meyer Lunch Meat = Free
o 1 Gillette Fusion Razor
o 6 4pack Cottonelle Toilet Paper = Free Each
Total w/ Taxes: $27.01
Total Savings: $50.43

Kroger Transaction # 2
o 3 Kellogg’s Cereals
o 1 Gallon Skim Milk = Free
Total w/ Taxes: $6.17
Total Savings: $5.99

Total Before Coupons and Store Savings: $174.33
Total Spent Before Taxes: $54.71
Percent Saved: 69%

The Kroger items were purchased with a Gift Card that we received for Christmas, so the total out of pocket expense was $25.63.

I could have saved about $4 more if I had handed the cash register attendant the coupons in a different order, but other than that I thought my first attempt at Bargain Shopping was a success!!