A Late Wish

I know this is a little late, however I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! I have been super busy and haven't had time to jump on the computer. However, stay tuned as I am planning new things for the upcoming year.

Happy Savings,

Amber

More Free Stuff From CVS!

Did you pick up your free deals on Thanksgiving from CVS? I did and I SCORED BIG TIME!! Guess what, they are doing it again during an upcoming two day sale. Make sure you get there when the store opens, because these items will go fast!

December 21st & 22nd Only:
L'Oreal HIP Metalic eye shadow duos $6.99 get $6.99 Limit 2
Sally Hansen Lacquer Shine nail Color $5.99 get $5.99 Limit 2
listerine antiseptic 16.9oz $2.99 get $2.99 Limit 5
Right Guard Professional solid 1.8oz or aerosol 6oz $6.00 get $6.00 Limit 5
Arm & Hammer Essentials starter kit $2.99 get $2.99 Limit 5
ThermaCare neck to arm heatwrap 1ct $2.49 get $2.49 Limit 3
Zipfizz energy 3ct $5.99 get $5.99 Limit 1
Excedrin Express Gels 20ct $3.99 get $3.99 Limit 1
Alteril sleep aid 30ct $9.99 get $9.99 Limit 1
Halls Naturals 25ct $2.59 get $2.59 Limit 1
Zantac 150 8ct $4.99 get $4.99 Limit 1
Benefiber drink mix 16ct $7.29 get $7.29 Limit 1
Iceland Health joint relief 60ct $29.99 get $29.99 Limit 1
Slimquick 2pk 4oz total $4.99 get $4.99 Limit 1
Sleepinal 32ct $8.49 get $8.49 Limit 5
EAS AdvantEdge bar 2.11oz $1.69 get $1.69 Limit 1
EAS AdvantEdge shake 4pk $7.49 get $7.49 Limit 1


Happy Savings,

Amber

Heroes at Home Wish Registry

Looking for a way to spread some Christmas Cheer?

Sears has a great program that helps our military families. You can go on line at Sears. com and fulfill a wish for 30,583 military families by contributing on line to ones in need this season. You just pick an item, like kids' shoes or pajamas, and purchase them on line. You can also make a donation or just Post a Thank You notes (which is always nice to hear.)

I think this is a simple way to help out and say thank you to those who give to each of each day by their service.

Happy Saving,

Amber

EVIC @ Harris Teeter

Harris Teeter, as you know, is one of my favorite stores. Did you know that if you go on line and register your VIC card, Harris Teeter will send you (via email) weekly sale ads and specials that only a "eVIC" customer can receive? What is eVIC? Special discounts sent to your email each week that are available only to e-VIC members. The best part is that you don't even need to clip any coupons as these discounts are automatically taken at the register! This past week Harris Teeter gave a way free rolls! Free Stuff! Great!
Just having a VIC card alone doesn't work as you must list your email with Harris Teeter (this is the "e" in EVIC.) While you are registering your VIC card, make sure to pick a school as Harris Teeter will donate $$ to the school of your choice.

It's a Win-Win!

Happy Savings,
Amber

Great Deals At Walgreens - Mid Week Sale!

There are some great deals that started mid week at Walgreens. Free Sure deodorant, register rewards, holiday items...just to name a few. Check out the web site "Fromwagstoriches.entempore.com" for a detailed list AND links to some great coupons! Make sure to let her know that I sent you!

Happy Savings,

Amber

The Grocery Game

A few weeks ago, I took advantage of the free trial offer at "The Grocery Game.Com." This is a site that pairs up coupons to sales at local stores. It provides a list, price of an item and information on when the best time will be to "play" your coupon. There is a cost for each store that you want to receive a list for and it is billed about every six weeks.
This idea is really good for new "coupon" players, however for us "old school clippers", I did not find that it was worth paying for. One major issue that I had with it was the fact that the list is not updated until Sunday afternoon. There are so many stores that have three and four day sales, that you may miss out on some really good bargains waiting on the "list." I also found a site that provides a similar list for free (couponmom.com.)
So, for me, the Grocery Game was not worth paying for. However, if you are new too coupons and/or lack a lot of time to figure out the deals...it may be worth a try. There is a four week trial for free, just go to "Thegrocerygame.com."

Happy Savings,

Amber

Like To Read??

I have a confession to make. I am addicted to magazines. There could be worse things, right? I started when I was a young teen. My mother bought me my first issue of Young Miss. After Young Miss, I moved on to Seventeen. Over the years I added Glamour, Cosmo, Marie Clair and other "fashion" magazines. I actually can tell that I am growing older because I now have more in common with Woman's Day and Better Homes and Garden then Cosmo.
Anyway, I found an affordable way to get my magazines! There is a new service called Maghound! You get all your magazines for one flat rate. You can even change the magazines as you wish each month. Here is the deal: You pick the magazines that you want and pay a flat rate. Three magaiznes = $4.95 per month, Five = $7.95 or Seven for $9.95 per month. If you like magazines like I do, this is a bargain. The cost of one of the magazines I like is $3.95 alone. There is a one month free trial at the web site, maghound.com. I really think it is worth a try.

Happy Savings,

Amber

To Give or Not To Give...Gift Cards?

I know it may sound kinda of non-christmas"ish", but I LOVE gift cards. I like the fact that I can go "hunting" for deals after the holidays. However, it's has almost become a gamble because the stores may or may not be around to redeem the card. I received the following email from a friend and I am passing the information on to you. Again, this was an email, however based on what I have heard in the news and seen around town...it's seems to be right on the mark. Maybe we should all just get back in the old habit of giving a gift that we really had to think about, pick out and wrap.

EMAIL AS FOLLOWS:

Wow! We really are in a mess.
BE CAREFUL When BUYING GIFT CARDS this holiday.

It would be better to give cash or a present. Here's why. Stores across America are being scheduled to close after the Christmas season due to economic difficulties and bankruptcy. If the store closes, the gift cards would be no good. Here are some of the announced closings. Of course these companies would love you to give them money for a gift card that would be no good later on. Perhaps some home made jam or a $5 bill would be safer, since once a store declares bankruptcy they don't have to honor their gift cards. Better yet, give the gift of food storage.

STORE CLOSINGS AND LAYOFFS: By the end of Dec. 2008 as announced

Circuit City Filed Bankruptcy, they promised to keep all stores open for the holiday season, but afterwards, they plan on closing 155 stores nationwide.

Ann Taylor closing 117 stores nationwide.
A company spokeswoman said the company hasn't revealed which stores will be
shuttered. It will let the stores that will close this fiscal year know
over the next month

Eddie Bauer to close more stores.
Eddie Bauer has already closed 27 shops in the first quarter and plans to
close up to two more outlet stores by the end of the year.

Cache closing stores.
Women's retailer Cache announced that it is closing 20 to 23 stores this
year.

Lane Bryant, Fashion Bug, and Catherines closing 150 stores nationwide.
The owner of retailers Lane Bryant , Fashion Bug, Catherines Plus Sizes will
close about 150 underperforming stores this year. The company hasn't
provided a list of specific store closures and can't say ! when it will offer
that info, spokeswoman Brooke Perry said today.

Talbots, J. Jill closing stores.
About a month ago, Talbots announced that it will be shuttering all 78 of
its kids and men 's stores. Now t he company says it will close another 22
underperforming stores. The 22 stores will be a mix of Talbots women's and
J Jill, another chain it owns. The closures will occur this fiscal year,
according to a company press release.

Gap Inc. closing 85 stores
In addition to its namesake chain, Gap also owns Old Navy and Banana
Republic . The company said the closures - all planned for fiscal 2008 -
will be weighted toward the Gap brand.

Foot Locker to close 140 stores
In the company press release and during its conference call with analysts
today, it did not specify where the future store closures - all planned in
fiscal 2008 - will be. The company could not be immediately reached for
comment

Wickes is going out of business
Wickes Furniture is going out of business and closing all of its stores.
Wickes, a 37-year-old retailer that targets middle-income customers, filed
for bankruptcy protection last month.

Goodbye Levitz / BOMBAY - closed already The furniture ret ailer, which is
going out of business. Levitz first announced it was going out of business
and closi! ng all 76 of its stores in December. The retailer dates back to
1910 when Richard Levitz opened his first furniture store in Lebanon , PA. In
the 1960s, the warehouse/showroom concept brought Levitz to the forefront of
the furniture industry. The local Levitz closures will follow the shutdown
of Bombay .

Zales, Piercing Pagoda closing stores
The owner of Zales and Piercing Pagoda previously said it plans to close 82
stores by Jul y 31. Today, it announced that it is closing another 23
underperforming stores. The company said it's not providing a list of
specific store closures. Of the 105 locations planned for closure, 50 are
kiosks and 55 are stores.

Disney Store owner has the right to close 98 stores The Walt Disney Company
announced it acquired about 220 Disney Stores from subsidiaries of The
Children's Place Retail Stores. The exact number of stores acquired will
depend on negotiations with landlords. Those subsidiaries of Children's
Place filed for bankruptcy protection in late March. In the news release,
Disney said it has also obtained the right to close about 98 Disney Stores
in the U.S. The press release didn't list those stores.

Home Depot store closings
Nearly 7+ months after its chief executive said there were no plans to cut
the number of its core retail stores, The Home Depot Inc. announced
Thursday that it is shuttering 15 of them amid a slumping US. economy and
housing market. The move will affect 1,300 employees. It is the first
time the world's largest home improvement store chain has ever closed a flagship
store for performance reasons. Its shares rose almost 5 percent.
The Atlanta-based company said the underperforming U.S. stores being closed
represent less than 1 percent of its existing stores They will be
shuttere! d withi n the next two months .

CompUSA (CLOSED) clarifies details on store closings Any extended
warranties purchased for products through CompUSA will be honored by a
third-party provider, Assurant Solutions. Gift cards, rain checks, and
rebates purchased prior to December 12 can be redeemed at any time during
the final sale. For those who have a gadget currently in for service with
CompUSA, the repair will be completed and the gadget will be returned to
owners.

Macy's - 9 stores

Movie Gallery - 160 stores will close as part of a reorganization plan to
exit bankruptcy.
The video rental company plans to close 400 of 3,500 Movie Gallery and
Hollywood Video stores in addition to the 520 locations the video rental
chain closed last fall.

Pep Boys - 33 stores

Sprint Nextel - 125 retail locations
New Sprint Nextel CEO Dan Hesse appears to have inherited a company bleeding
subscribers by the thousands, and will now officially be dropping the ax on
4,000 employees and 125 retail locations. Amid the loss of 639,000 postpaid
customers in the fourth quarter, Sprint will be cutting a total of 6.7% of
its work force (following the 5,000 layoffs last year)! and 8% of
company-owned brick-and-mortar stores, while remaining mute on other rumors
that it will consolidate its headquarters in Kansas . Sprint Nextel shares
are down $2.89, or nearly 25%, at the time of this writing.

J. C. Penney, Lowe's and Office Depot will be scaling back and cutting jobs.

Ethan Allen Interiors - The co! mpany a nnounced plans to close 12 of 300+
stores in an effort to cut costs.

Wilsons the Leather Experts - all 260 mall stores.

Pacific Sunwear will close its 154 Demo stores after a review of strategic
alternatives for the urban-apparel brand Seventy-four underperforming Demo
st! ores cl osed last May.

Sharper Image: The company recently filed for bankruptcy protection and
announced that 90 of its 184 stores are closing. The retailer will still
operate 94 stores to pay off debts, but 90 of these stores have performed
poorly and also may close.

Bombay Company
The company unveiled plans ! to clos e all 384 U.S.-based Bombay Company
stores. The company's online storefront has discontinued operations.

KB Toys posted a list of 356 stores that it is closing around the United
States as part of its bankruptcy reorganization.

Dillard's to Close More Stores
Dillard's Inc. said it will continue to focus on closing underperforming
stores, reducing expenses and improving its merchandise in 2008. At the
company's annual shareholder meeting, CEO William Dillard II said the
company will close another six underperforming stores this year.

Starbucks: Starbucks will close approximately 600 company- operated stores in the U.S.

Pier 1: Announced that they would be closing an undisclosed number of stores.

Kirklands: A chain of home decor stores will be closing nearly 130 stores nationwide.

Sprint: to cut 4500 jobs. and 125 stores.

Linens 'n Things: Is closing 120 stores nationwide

Dell Inc. closed its 140 kiosks in the United States

Liz Claiborne Inc. said it's closing the entire 54-store Sigrid Olsen chain.

Lone Star Steak House: 27 stores closing.

84 Lumber: 12 stores closing

Rite Aid: 28 stores

Big Dollar: dollar stores closing 10 stores

Sunday Coupons

There are some good coupons in Sunday's paper. I would buy at least two. There were be two packets, but some really good coupons that could save you some money. I pulled out the ones that I think are the best, but remember there are loads of other good ones as well.

SMARTSOURCE
Air Wick Air Starter Kit, any $5 (again, always a sale or upcoming sale…keep these until then)
Air Wick Scented Oil Refills, any $1 on 2 (see above)
Glade 4 oz. Jar Candle or 2 in 1 Candle, any $1 (see above)
Glade Scented Oil Candles Holder $2.50/1 or two refill packs
Progresso Soup, any .50/2 (Harris Teeter Sale – Ends Sunday)
Progresso Soup, any $1 on 4 (see above)
Rayovac Alkaline or Hearing Aid Batteries, any $1 (Target $1 area)
Schick Disposable Razor, any $2 (There is always a sale or upcoming sale…keep these until then.)
Schick Quattro for Women or Intuition Plus Razor or Refill, any $2 (See above)
Schick Quattro Titanium Trimmer or Razor or Refill, any $2 (See above)
Ziploc Bags, any $1 on 2 (Harris Teeter till Tuesday.)

VALASSIS (RED PLUM)
Glade PlugIns Scented Oil Refill, any B1G1F up to $5.49 (again, always a sale or upcoming sale…keep these until then.)

Happy Savings,

Amber

Movie Time

I am sure that you have heard about Red Box Movies. There is always a free code for Monday. However, for a few weeks this month, you can also get a free movie on Sunday! There are eleven moms that Wal-Mart picked that have some great blogs. In honor of the 11 moms, Wal-Mart is offering free movie codes at Red Box (Wal-Mart locations only.)

Here are the codes (one for each week.)


Week 1 (Sunday 12/7) - 11moms4uS (good for this day only)

Week 2 (Sunday 12/14) - 11moms4uA (good for that day only)

Week 3 (Sunday 12/21) - 11moms4uN (good for that day only)

Week 4 (Sunday 12/28) - 11moms4uT (good for that day only)

Week 5 (Sunday 1/4/09) - 11moms4uA (good for that day only)

Run Fast...Deals Only For A Few Days!

I love this store! I know a lot of people think Harris Teeter is too expense, but not if you know how to shop and use coupons! There is always a deal to be found, plus Harris Teeter has the best quality.
There are several deals (until this Sunday only)...
Boneless Chicken buy one - get TWO free!
Palermo's Pizza - buy two - get Three free!
Juicy Juice 64 oz - buy two - get Three free!
Fresh Express Salads - buy one - get Two free!
Pregresso Soup - buy two - get Three free!

Sales thru Tuesday
Tangerines 5/$2
fresh blueberries BOGO
HT Hot Dogs Buns .99
Round Cubed Steak BOGO
Lean Stew Meat BOGO
Valutime Vegetable Oil 48oz 2.37
Betty Crocker Cookie Mix 3/$5
Wacky Mac Veggie Spirals BOGO
Kellogg's Smart Start BOGO
Lipton Tea Bags BOGO
Kellogg's Fruit Loops/Apple Jacks BOGO
All 2x Detergent $3.99
Ziploc Zipper Bogs BOGO
Colgate Toothpaste $1.39
Birds Eye Voila BOGO
HT 2.5 Dozen Eggs $2.97

Happy Savings,

Amber

Jamestown Parade

Looking for something to do with the family this upcoming Sunday? Well, 12/7/08 at 3:00 P.M. is the Jamestown Christmas Parade. We went last year and it was a nice small town event. Candy was thrown from the floats, there were horses, cowboys and of course Santa! After the parade, you can walk over to the Jamestown library for hot apple cider, holiday crafts and story time with Santa! Most everything is free or very low cost. I highly recommend it. Get there early for a good spot. (Jamestown Parade located on Main St and Ragsdale - near the Food Lion)

Amber

CVS Deals

I ran by CVS yesterday and got a few good deals. Dawn dish washing liquid is on sale for $1.49 AND BOGO! Also, Degree deodorant is on sale for $1.99 AND you get $1 CVS buck back = .99 each. I was able to use some CVS bucks that I got from last Friday. I paid less than .40 cents for four Dawn dish washing liquid and two things of Degree (I did have one $1.00 coupon for Degree.) It really pays to flip your CVS bucks!

Happy Savings,

Amber

Smell Goods for Your Home

There are not a lot of great sales this week, however did find a few good deals to pass to you.

Target:
Airwick Fresh Kit on sale for $5.99. There were $5 coupons in a recent coupon book.

Also, at Target, Gillette Fusion razors, $7.99, coupons in yesterday's paper (who knew there would be coupons yesterday?) Any way, the coupomns were for $4.00's off of one. If you can come up with two coupons and buy two, you will get a $5 gift card from Target. This will make each razor $1.49 each.

Walgreens:

Glade Flameless Candles $3.99, recent coupons for $3.00 off of one = .99 each.

Happy Savings,
Amber

A Word Of Thanks

How could I go w/out giving thanks on this day? As crazy as some days are, when you look at the big picture, there is so much to be thankful for!

1. Thankful for my family. My children are my reason for everything. I love them sooo much. I am also thankful that my mother is still with me. The more you tell her what she shouldn't do, the more she does it!

2. Thankful for my friends, the silver fox crew (inside joke.)

3. Thankful that I have a job that provides what we need. Sometimes it is really hard, however there are so many who lost their job.

4. Thankful that God gave me the gift of bargain shopping! Give thanks for everything, right?

Wishing you the best Thanksgiving ever,

Amber

Black Friday Sites

SHOPPING ON BLACK FRIDAY

Don't go shopping unless you have a plan! The sites below will give you "heads up" on the deals.

BlackFriday.info

BlackFriday.net

Black Friday Central

BFAds.net

BlackFriday.GottaDeal.com

Happy Savings,

Amber

Thankful That We Can Give

Better To Give Than To Receive

Please remember to pick up a few extra items for your local food banks. This year it may be more important than ever with all of the layoffs and bad news that we seem to hear on the daily news. Try to purchase a meal that you would like to receive. Remember items for children, elderly and someone that may be on a special diet. As long as the item is non-perishable, it will be welcomed.

Most stores also have food cards that you can purchase for food banks. You make a certain dollar donation and the money goes into your local food bank. To be honest, this is the best bang for your buck if you really want to give. Food banks can stretch your dollar because they buy in bulk. I have worked with some local food banks and they really know how to shop!

Happy Savings,
Amber

Thanksgiving Food Sales

MySpace Graphics & Free Myspace Layouts

Wow! What a week for specials at the local grocery stores. Remember, if possible, this is the time to stock up. Keep in mind that after Thanksgiving the sales will be more towards baked goods than dinner items. I am only listing what I think the best deals are at each store. I'll note with an "*" that this is the lowest price I found. Also, any coupon listed is from the Sunday paper or All You magazine.
I am going to start at Lowes as they have some good sales (some better than Harris Teeter) and they also double coupons. Also, if you take your own bags, they give you some extra green points. Then I'll run over to Food Lion (best price on Turkey - but must buy $35 worth of items.) How I wished they would double coupons! However,even w/out the coupons, Food Lion has the best of the sales. I'll end up at Harris Teeter and pick up what is left AND on sale.

NOTE: BOGO = buy one/get one free

LOWES

Premium Spiral Ham $1.49 lb*
Kraft Shredded Cheese $1.99 8oz*
Green Giant canned veggies 2/$1
Green Giant frozen boxed veggies 5/$5 (.50 when you buy 2)
Mrs. Smith frozen pies BOGO
Cool Whip .99*
Duncan Hines cake or brownie mix BOGO (.75 coupon when you buy cake & frosting)
Lays chips BOGO
Ocean Spray juice BOGO
Philadelphia cream cheese 8oz 4/$5
Kraft cheese singles 1.99
Heavy Cream $2.49
Birds Eye frozen Veggies BOGO
Lowes frozen strawberries 15 oz 1.99
Ocean Spray cranberry sauce .99 can
Dole pineapple 20 oz 5/$5*
Jello gelatin/pudding 2/$1*
Kraft marshmallows BOGO*
Perdue boneless chicken $2.99 lb (this is my fav. chicken. I buy in thin cut.)
Johnsonville Italian Sausage BOBO
Lowes instant oatmeal BOGO
Swiss Miss .99 box
Lowes paper plates BOGO
Granny Smith apples .99LB*

Remember Lowes will double your coupons. There also may be coupons on line or that you have yet to use from the Sunday paper. Match up your list BEFORE you go shopping.

FOOD LION

Turkey .67lB (must buy $35 items)*
FL Jumbo cooked shrimp BOGO
Sweet Potatoes .29lb
Mrs. Smith Pies BOGO
Cool Whip 2/$2
Stove Top Stuffing BOGO
Green Giant canned veggies BOGO
Ritz crackers BOGO
Fresh Green Beans 1.29lb
Snack wings 2.5lb BOGO
Jimmy Dean Sausage 2/$4
Bruce Yams 40 oz 2/$4
Velveeta shells and cheese 3/$5 (check Walmart)
Swansons broth 2/$1
Heinz Gravy 3/$3
Jiffy Mix corn bread 5/$2*
Oven Bags (turkey size) 2/$4 ($1 coupon)
Birdseye frozen veggies BOGO
Daisy Sour Cream 3/$5
Philadelphia cream cheesege 4/$5
Grand Biscuits/rolls 2/$5

You can get most of the items listed at Food Lion at the other stores also, however I listed some of the same items so you can get to the $35 limit to purchase you turkey at a cheaper price.

HARRIS TEETER

Birds Eye Veggies BOGO
Breyers Ice Cream BOGO (.50 coupon*)
Campbell's cream soups BOGO*
coke products (cans) BOGO
Duncan Hines cake/brownie mix BOGO
green asparagus $1.49lb
Hefty bowls/plates/cups BOGO
Kens Dressing BOGO
Lays BOGO
Ritz BOGO
Nabisco Snack Crackers BOGO
McCormick Brown Gravy mix BOGO
Ocean Spray juice BOGO
Pet Ritz pie shells BOGO
Simply Potatoes BOGO
Sister Schuberts yeast rolls BOGO*(coupon - but unsure of amount)
spring water BOGO
Swanson broth 14oz BOGO (coupon unsure of amount)
7UP 2 liter soda .99
Breakston Sour Cream 16oz 2/$3*
Philadelphia cream cheese 8ox 4/$5
Dole can oranges/pineapple 4/$5


Happy Savings,
Amber

Letters From Santa

Awesome MySpace Comments & Myspace Layouts

Another Idea from MoneySavingMethods (This is a great site!)

Information is listed that you can receive free letters from Santa! Just go to santaclausmuseum.org! They will ask some questions about the child so the letter can be personal. The best part is that this is FREE! I already requested my letter for my daughter, Jordan. She received a letter last year from Santa and it was so magical for her. Children love to receive mail, so this is a great find for your younger children.

Also, you can mail a letter to the North Pole and place it in your mail box for the USPS to pick up. I know in my area, they will replace it with a letter from Santa for free.

One last item about "Santa Letters"...for every "Dear Santa" letter that Macy's Department store receives, they will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Drop your stamped letter in the special Santa letterbox, located in the stores. Address it to Santa At The North Pole. I am not sure if you receive a letter back, but you can use this to help the little ones write their letter, and then the other sites to receive a letter back. In the meantime, this helps a great foundation! For more information go to macys.com/beleive.

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Free What? Free Gas!!

Graphics & Myspace layouts

Free Gas Deal - Really!

Okay, I know we would all be happy if gas was really the price in this picture! However, I am sure that you get the idea. Thankfully, gas has droped in price. In my area I pay $2.17 per gallon. I've heard that it has actually droped below $2.00 in some states, WOW! Well, free gas is still a wonderful deal, right? Go to moneysavingmethods.com and look for the post from 11/1/08. She has a deal for free gas if you live in certain states and .05 off per gallon in others. Check her blog for the details. You do not need to use a "credit" card, as a debit card will also work. I just received my speed pass the other day. Also, if you list your information with Upromise, there are additional savings.

By the way, this is a great blog, full of a lot of information. I look at it almost daily. Definitely worthy to add to your favorites. Please let her know that you heard it here at Amber360view!

Happy Shopping,
Amber

Day After Thanksgiving Sale!

We all know that there are several deals going on after Thanksgiving. The event is called "Black Friday." It is when the stores go from being in the red to going in the black (lost to a profit.) As I find deals, I will share them with you so you will be prepared. I found the following deal at www.dealtaker.com for the CVS ad for Black Friday. The sales that I find tempting are italicized. Some items say "Free" and I am not sure what that REALLY means, however, I think it may mean "free" after ECB bucks? So, remember to use this as a guideline.

CVS Black Friday ECB Deals

ECB= Extra Care Bucks. You can use them on your next purchase

Rival Crockpot $9.99 with 10 ECB
Rice Cooker $9.99 with 11 ECB
Waffle Maker $9.99 with 10 ECB
Popcorn Maker $9.99 with 10 ECB
3 in 1 Grill $9.99 with 10 ECB
Griddle $9.99 with 10 ECB
Mini Sewing Machine (Don't know cost yet) with 10 ECB

Other Sales:
Craig MP 3 - $19.99
Receive $20 in ECB WYB One (1) Digital photo frame ($79.99)
Receive $20 in ECB WYB One (1) Kodak Camera ($89.99)
Receive $10 in ECB WYB One (1) GPS for Dummies ($89.99)
Receive $5 in ECB WYB One (1) MP3 Player ($24.99)
Pepsi 2 liters B1G1
Revlon B1G1
Toys B1G1 ( there are few exclusions on this)CVS nuts B1G1
Dove chocolate bags B1G1
Christmas Lights 100ct string B1G1
Sales AD:
Clothing & Apparel
Men's or Women's Massaging Slippers - $9.99
Scunci Flexible Scarfband or Interchangeable Headband - $6.99
Digital Cameras
Kodak EasyShare C713 7MP Digital Camera - $69.99
Digital Media Cards
SanDisk 2GB Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card - $9.99
Electronics
Coby 5.6" Digital Picture Frame - $59.99
Craig Portable CD Player - $8.88
Keychain Digital Photo Viewer or Clock Viewer - $14.99
Magnavox Universal Remote Control - FREE
Philips Earbud Headphones - FREE TDE 7" Digital Picture Frame - $59.99
Food
5-Hour Energy Extra Strength 2-Pack (4 oz. Total) - FREE
Buy 1 Get 1 Free Coke or Diet Coke 2-Liters - B1G1F
Buy 1 Get 1 Free Dove Chocolate Minis - B1G1F
Buy 1 Get 1 Free Gold Emblem Macadamia Nuts or Cashews - B1G1F
Buy 1 Get 1 Free Hershey's Holiday Kisses or Reese's Minis - B1G1F
Gatorade G2 20 oz. (Assorted Varieties) - FREE
Hershey's King Size Chocolate w/ Almonds, Kit Kat or Twizzlers - FREE
Holiday M&Ms (Plain or Peanut, 11-14 oz. Bags) - $1.50
Whitman's Sampler Chocolates - $3.99
GPS Navigation Systems
GPS 3.5" Navigation System w/ Mounting Kit & Car Charger - $79.99
Health & Beauty
4-Piece Luxury Spa Set, Hot or Cold Applications - $6.99
Aussie Shampoo, Conditioner or Styler - FREE
Bic Soleil Single Razor with 2 Cartridges & Shower Holder - FREE
Buy 1 Get 1 50% off Designer Fragrance Gift Sets - B1G1H
Buy 1 Get 1 Free Revlon Cosmetics (excludes beauty tools) - B1G1F
Clairol Hydrience Haircolor - $3.49
Colgate Total Advanced Clean, Fresh or Whitening Toothpaste - FREE
Conair 1875-Watt Hair Dryer - $9.99
Essence of Beauty Perfectly Polished Shopper Tote - $9.99
Homedics Neck Massager - $9.99
Johnson's Softlotion (11 or 14 oz.) - FREE
Maybelline Mineral Power Liquid Foundation - FREE
Norelco Electric Razor with Precision Cutting System - $28.99
Schick Quattro Razor or Trimmer - $1.99
Soft & Dri Pulse or Right Guard Sport Deodorant - $0.99
Sonicare e5300 Essence Electric Toothbrush - $49.99
Home
Buy 1 Get 1 Free MerryBrite Indoor/Outdoor 100-Count Mini Bulbs - B1G1F
CVS Pharmacy Blood Pressure Monitor - $29.99
Garnier Nutritioniste Cleansing Towlettes 25-Count - FREE
Playtex Gentle Glide or Sport Tampons 16-18 ct. - $0.99
Sarah Peyton Wellness Memory Foam Pillow - $6.99
Kitchen & Housewares
Black & Decker 12-Cup Digital Coffeemaker - $9.99
Home Exclusives 3-in-1 Contact Grill - $9.99
Home Exclusives Cool-Touch Electric Griddle - $9.99
Home Exclusives Rotary Waffle Maker - $9.99
Oster 10-Cup Rice Cooker - $9.99
Retro Style Hot Air Popcorn Maker - $9.99
Rival 5-Quart Crock-Pot - $9.99
Miscellaneous
CVS Brand AA Alkaline Battery 40-Pack - $9.99
CVS Brand Battery Value Pack with LED Flashlight - $9.99
MP3 Players
Craig 2GB MP3 Player with 1.5" LCD Display - $19.99
Pets
2-Piece Pet Bed (Assorted Styles) - $9.99
Seasonal
50% off Boxed Holiday Cards (excludes Hallmark and AG) - 50% off
Buy 1 Get 1 Free Holiday Gift Wrap (125 sq. ft.) - B1G1F
Holiday Gift Bags with Tags Set - $9.99
Toys
Buy 1 Get 1 Free Assorted Toys (Pro Hockey, CAT Truck, more) - B1G1F
Electronic ATM Bank with ATM Card - $14.99
Thunder Tumbler Radio Controlled Car - $9.99

Happy Shopping,
Amber

$$$ Saving Tip

During the holidays, we all tend to spend money on spices that we use just a few times per year. I always feel that I need to replace them yearly because they may no longer be "at their best." Some of the spices and herbs are not cheap. Especially when I need just a pinch of this and a pinch of that! What's a cook to do? I started buying the Mexican spices in the small bags! You can normally find these in the ethnic area in your local grocery store and Walmart (they have a great selection.) You can get the spices that you normally buy for 50%-75% off. In addition to the great savings, I feel that my spices are fresher. If I don't use all of the spices/herbs, I don't feel so bad to toss them out. This is how I buy my sage each year, for a whole lot less! There are also new spices to introduce to your favorite dish without spending a lot of money. Hope this tip helps!

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Sears Announces Layaway!

A Sign Of The Times?

Back in the good ol' days, when I was just a kid (do you hear the music playing) there was this thing called "layaway." My mom used this for birthdays and holidays and everything in between. When I was preparing to move out of my parent's home, I put everything on layaway. Guess that everything that is old is new again...

Sears has Layaway for this holiday season!

Pick out what you want (not all items may be placed on layaway. Check store for details.)

Put $15 or 20% at the nearest check out.

Everything must be paid if full by 12/23/08.

I am sure you'll most likely see something in the Sunday paper about this. Just so you know, T.J Max also has a 30 day layaway plan.

Happy Shopping,

Amber

CVS

Some good finds at CVS this week -
Kellogg's had $1.00 off any of their cereals (Internet coupon) and CVS had Kellogg's cereal on sale for $2.00 each. So, final price $1.00 each.

Also, kids toothpaste is BOGO this week. There were coupons from the newspaper for $.55 off and CVS let me use two.

There were no bucks back on these deals, however I think there were still great finds. Sales end Saturday. If they are out, get a rain check.

Happy Shopping,


Amber

Thanksgiving Finds

As promised, I am listing the best deals for your Thanksgiving meal. To be honest, I am not really impressed with the sales thus far. Perhaps they are going to wait until the last minute and spring some great deals! I can only hope. I am only listing what I think are good finds and will save some money. Let me know if you have found any great deals and I'll share them with my readers.

HARRIS TEETER

Four Day Sale - Turkey .59 lb (must purchase $25 or more at time of sale.)
Green Giant can veggies 3/$1
HT Large Eggs .99 per dozen

Ongoing for the week:
Green Giant frozen Veggies 7.50oz .99 box (check for coupons.)
Kraft Cool Whip (tub) 2/$2
Sara Lee Pie BOGO
80% lean ground beef $1.68 (I swear by HT's quality.)
HT cream cheese (block) 2/$3
HT pasta sauce BOGO
Hebrew National Hot Dogs BOGO (these are the BEST franks around)
Betty Crocker Cake Mix BOGO (you can get the frosting at Walgreens for .50)
Excedrin 48ct $2.99 (you may have some coupons. It is a BOGO pack)
Pepperidge Farm Stuffing 2/$5 (not sure if this is a great deal or not.)
Foster Farm Chicken Strips BOGO (couponbug.com has a coupon but use the 85009 zip code.)
Deer Park Water 24 pk $3.99

FOOD LION

Stove Top Stuffing BOGO (.93 per box)
Ducan Hines cake/brownie mix BOGO
***Wesson Oil 48 oz BOGO ($1.65 per item. This is a GREAT sale. Stock Up!)
Edy's Ice Cream BOGO
Birds Eye Veggies BOGO ($1.35 per bag)
FL Butter 2/$5
FL Sliced Bacon 2/$4 ($1/2 Coupon on their web site. Must receive their email.)
Pillsbury Rolls 2/$5 (not sure if best deal.)
Johnsonville Ground Sausage BOGO ($2.16 per pack)

LOWES

3 Day Sale 11/13-11/15. Must have store coupons, found in ad.
Lowes Sugar 1.99 5LB (check out Walgreens deal first.)
Lowes canned tomatoes 2/$1
Del Monte canned fruit 4/$5
Lowes Tomato or Chicken Noodle soup 5/$2

Ongoing:
Lowes Cranberry Sauce BOGO (Ocean Spray should be on sale next week.)
Lowes Kosher Dill Spears BOGO
Navel Oranges BOGO (think its the 4lb bag.)
Honey Nut Cheerios BOGO (see paper and coupon.com for addional savings.)

Again, I will check my finds against what thegrocerygame.com finds on Sunday. But until then, hope this list is useful.

Happy Savings,

Amber

Free Coffee

Rumor has it that McDonalds is giving away their coffee. Double check your area as this may be a local deal. Anyway, here is what I heard:

Thurs - Hot or Iced Coffee (Free)
Friday - Hot or Cold Vanilla Latte (Free)
Saturday - Cappuccino or Hot Chocolate (Free)

Happy Shopping,
Amber

Kmart Double Coupns...Again?

Word has it that Super Kmart's will double coupons again from this Wednesday to Saturday. I am not sure that the Super Kmart in Greensboro will also follow this sale, however it is worth a try. Go to "thedeallady.blogspot.com" for coupon details. She has already worked out the deals for us! Please tell her that amber360view sent you!

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Review

The Grocery Game

I am in the second week of my trial period with the Grocery Game. So how is it going so far? Again, I feel that I could have missed out on some deals because the list does not update until Sunday. Harris Teeter had triple coupons since Thursday. However, when I did look at the list it did save some time preparing for my trip and once I arrived at the store. So it does save a lot of time. The list is correct about the prices, however it did have one error with canned pasta. However, I found that Coupon Mom does the same thing, for free!

The picture above is from my shopping trip to Harris Teeter. My total price paid was under $40.00 (The only items I bought w/out a coupon was water $3.99 on sale, cottage cheese and Bubba Burgers on sale for $5.00.) I am stocked up with my cream soups and cake mix. I have so much wax paper, I could bake cookies forever. So, I do thing that the Grocery Game help me work the most out of the triple coupons, however not sure if it is worth paying for this service.

Happy Savings,

Amber

Thanksgiving Finds

WALGREENS

This week at Walgreens, you can pick up some items for your holiday meals (Thanksgiving, Christmas and all celebrations in between.) This coming Saturday is the last day of the sale. Also, most have a Walgreens coupon you must use. However, you can pick this up in the store.

-Nabisco Pie Crust BOBO (I think there was a coupon in the newspaper for these lately.)
-Domino's 5lb sugar (.50 man. coupon)
-Libby's Pure Pumpkin .99
-Royal Instant Pudding 4/$1.00
-Jell-O Cheesecake or Pie Filling 2/$3.00
-Betty Crocker Frosting/Cake/Brownie mix (coupons in paper).99
-Corn Starch, baking soda, salt and baking powder 2/$1 (coupon in this weeks paper.)

There are other food items also on sale, however not sure they are the best price, so I didn't list them. Remember, you can use the Walgreens coupon AND the coupons from the paper to get the best deal!

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Passing a Tip...

Comments & Myspace layouts

My daughters like frequent trips to get their hair done (both of them ages 16 AND 6.) There is no way that I can afford this pricey habit. So, I took them to Leons Beauty School. Everyone was very nice and professional. The prices were reasonable (even though they were more than what was listed.) Most importantly, they did a really good job. We went on a Saturday around 11 a.m. and there was no wait time to see anyone. Also, the services were speedy and again they did a good job. They also offer facials and waxing. They even have gift cards for the holidays starting at $10.00. They have "princess parties" for little girls and other group packages. So, if you need to pamper yourself, you may want to try them out. Call for hours and prices.

Happy Shopping,
Amber

Coupon Preview

Taylortownpreview.com
This is a great site because it tells you what coupons will be in the Sunday paper! The information that I find helps me plan how many papers to buy. It updates a few days before Sunday and has a detailed list on all of the coupons.

Harris Teeter Deals
Can you believe that I have yet to shop at Harris Teeter? I really have not had time. If you do not know, I work full time, go to school and have 3 kids that I am rasing on my own. There is NEVER enough time! However, I found a blog that list some of the triple coupon deals, www.flugalinvirginia.com. Please let her know that I sent you her way.

Happy Shopping,

Amber

New Internet Coupons

Don't forget to print your coupons from Coupon.com and couponbug.com for internet coupons. They should triple at HT this weekend with the HT triple deals. There are some good deals so print a few if you can. Do not print on a xerox because they will not scan.

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Triple Coupons at HT!!

It's that time again! Triple coupons. I was going to start my post about Thanksgiving deals today, however will take a little extra time to pull my coupons together. One thing you must remember about triple coupons at HT, is that the products go really fast. Go early and you may want to go often. Also, the triple coupon deals will run through Sunday. So, get your Sunday paper early and clip, then shop.

Just a side bar about my trial period with the Grocery Game. If I wait for this site to show me the deals, I will miss out on 3 days of triple coupons. Not sure I like paying for that risk.

Also, Food Lion still has the deal on the free razors!

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Before $34.33! After $21.14!

I ran to Walmart yesterday to use some of the coupons that I had with the deals I found on other blogs. The bad news, is that Walmart must really be cheaper in other states because the Walmart I went to prices ran higher. Also, it didn't carry all of the products. The good news, I still saved some money. I had a picture, however it won't come up on the computer. :(
Oh well, Some items I had no coupon, so I think over all I did great.

Here is a break down:
Salad Mix $1.78
Just Bunches Cereal $2.88
Betty Crocker Cookie Mix $1.50
Domino's Sugar Packets .88
Bagel-Fullx $1.98 x 2
Steamer Broc Cuts $1.23
Steamer Potatoes & Green Bean $1.50 x 4
Kotex Panty Liners $1 x 4
Gallen of 2% Milk $3.59
Hawainn Punch drink mix $1 x 2
Salsa $1.68
Envelopes .94
Candy Bar .33
Cottage Cheese $1.68

Total $34.33/ After Coupons $21.14

Coupon Deals Below:

Betty Crocker Cookie Pouch--$1.50
Use $0.75/1 from paper
$0.25 after coupon

Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers--$1.25-$1.50
Use $1/1 coupon found in paper and Internet
$0.25 -$.50after coupon

Kotex Panty Liners 16 or 18 ct.--$1.00
Use $1 found in paper and Internet also ALL YOU mag.
Free after coupon

Post Just Bunches Cereal $2.88
Use $2.00 from Post Web Site
$0.88 after coupon

BagelFuls $1.98
Use $1 from Internet (CouponBug.Com)
$0.98 after coupon

Idaho Potatoes $0.88
Free Coupon from their site (see post)
Free after coupon

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Turkey Day Is Around The Corner! Yummy!

Remember, I said I was working on a project? Well, it's "kinda" a project. I am going to share with you my shopping trip(s) for Thanksgiving Dinner. Where the deals are, how much I am spending and all of that jazz. Keep in mind that I am cooking for only six people. So, the bulk of what I buy, may be different than yours. Also, every family has their own menu, so be mindful of that also. So, what type of things are on my list so far?

Turkey, ham, rolls, mac & cheese, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, dressing, fruit salad, greens, a few pies, giblet gravy, banana pudding, a few veggies and other items that I will add to the list. I will look at different recipes over the next few weeks. I'll break down the different items and ingredients soon. Look for my list of deals starting this Thursday.

Remember, the key to saving is to buy items when they are on sale. Also, pick up extra for your Christmas dinner. After Thankgiving, baking items will be on sale and you won't find the "dinner" type items a often. It's also a great time to just stock up for everyday meals.

Also, if you have a great recipe or Thanksgiving tradition, please share!

Happy Shopping,

Amber

The Grocery Game

I just signed on for a four week trial to "The Grocery Game." This is a site that does a lot of the coupon/saving work for you. The trial is for $1 (four weeks), however the ongoing price is $10 for the first store and $5 for each additionall store that you sign on too. You pay this every eight weeks. I am going to list my pro's and con's during this trial period.

This was my first week, so here we go with what I liked and didn't like...

Likes:

-You get a full list of items that are matched up with the coupons, full price, sale price and price you will pay.
-You can print the list, no need to write everything out. This was really handy at the store. Also, at Harris Teeter, the list followed the layout of the store. I just used the list and pulled out my coupons. Helped with planning and saved lots of time.
-There were a few items that I did not see or did not know about listed on the list.

Dislikes:

-The list does not update until Sunday afternoon. As we all know, the ads go out on Wednesday. You take a chance that the store is out of stock. Also, since I waited on the list, I missed some deals because my coupons expired the day before. This may only happen towards the end of the month, but I really feel like I missed out on saving some money. Never a good thing.
-During the trial, you can use all of the stores in your area. However, after the trial period, you must pay for this. If you really read the blogs, you can get most of this information for the drug stores (CVS, Walgreens and Walmart.)

At this point, I am not too sure about paying for this service. The main issue is the late updates. However, I'll keep you posted. If you are interested, google "The Grocery Game.Com" Let me know if you have used this before. What did you like? Dislike?

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Don't Forget!

Free Counter

This Week At Walgreens

Below are some items that you can get for free or really cheap. Remember, you can double your manufactores coupons with the Walgreens coupons. (You can pick up the Walgreens Easy Saver coupon book at the stores. They are good for one month. The coupons are found in the front of the book and the rebate deals are listed in the back. I alway pick up a few, as they are hard to find towards the end of the month.) Also, note that if it says "rebate" you will not receive the money at the point of sale. See the Easy Saver coupon book for more details.

Wrigley’s Gum: $1.19
Use B1G1 coupon from Walgreens weekly ad
Use B1G1 coupon from 10/5 SS insert
Final Price = FREE

Almay One Coat Mascara: $6.99 (on sale B1G1 this week)
Use 2 $1/1 coupons from 9/14 or 10/12 SS inserts
Receive $6.99 EasySaver Rebate
Final Price = 2 FREE plus $2 overage

L’Oreal Age Perfect Pro-Calcium Radiance Perfector: $19.99
Use $1/1 coupon from 9/21 RP or 10/19 SS insert
Receive $19.99 EasySaver Rebate
Final Price = FREE plus $1 overage

Schick Quattro (3-pk): $5.99 each (buy 2)
Use B1G1 coupon from 10/19 SS insert
Use 2 $3/1 coupons from EasySaver coupon booklet
Final Price = FREE

Celestial Seasonings Tea (20-pk): 2/$3
Use $1/2 coupon from EasySaver coupon booklet
Use 2 $1/1 coupons from 10/5 SS insert
Final Price = FREE

This Just In...

More Free Food...Just For Voting!


Shane’s Rib Shack (West Wendover, near Costco) is offering a free “Vote America Meal,” which consists of a three-piece chicken tenders meal, fries and a 20-oz drink. Again, this is for folks wearing an “I Voted” sticker.

This is just great! Free breakfast, dinner and ice cream! Now, some place needs to add in lunch. Hope I can find my "I voted early" sticker!

Happy Voting!

Amber

Last Call for Some Good Deals

Food Lion

You should have a coupon from the 11/2 newspaper for $3 off of the Bic Shimmer Razor or refill cartridge (4ct) They are on sale for $2.99 at Food Lion. This means = FREE! However, tomorrow is the last day for the sale. If they are out, get a rain check!

Also, if you have not signed on to Food Lions weekly email, you really should. There are four weekly coupons that they send out that are usually good. This week there was a coupon for $2 off of $5 in the produce department. They have this coupon often. Also, there was a $1.00 off of FL cheese, which is a good deal. Does anyone know why is cheese so high now?

Harris Teeter

Sorry this is a little late, as tomorrow is also the last day. (I'll explain soon why it is late.) So, some last minute deals:
Kraft Mayo w/ Olive Oil. Sale $2.99. But for some reason the coupon takes the whole $2.99 off! The cashier said this was happening all day. The coupon was $1.00 off from 10/5's paper.

Also, Glade Candles are BOGO. You have $1.50 coupon when you buy 2 from 11/2 paper. This makes them $1.00 each. Not bad, huh?

Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables 9-10 OZ (small box) is on sale 10/$10. You have .35 coupons (which double) from 11/2's paper. This makes them .30 each. Not too shabby.

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Why Women Should Vote!

I received the following in an email from a co-worker. I knew women had to fight for their right to vote, however had no idea what it took.

WHY WOMEN SHOULD VOTE

This is the story of our Grandmothers and Great-grandmothers; they lived only 90 years ago. Remember, it was not until 1920 that women were granted the right to go to the polls and vote.The women were innocent and defenseless, but they were jailed nonetheless for picketing the White House, carrying signs asking for the vote.
And by the end of the night, they were barely alive. Forty prison guards wielding clubs and their warden's blessing went on a rampage against the 33 women wrongly convicted of 'obstructing sidewalk traffic.' They beat Lucy Burns, chained her hands to the cell bars above her head and left her hanging for the night, bleeding and gasping for air. They hurled Dora Lewis into a dark cell, smashed her head against an iron bed and knocked her out cold. Her cellmate, Alice Cosu, thought Lewis was dead and suffered a heart attack. Additional affidavits describe the guards grabbing, dragging, beating, choking, slamming, pinching, twisting and kicking the women. Thus unfolded the 'Night of Terror' on Nov. 15, 1917, when the warden at the Occoquan Workhouse in Virginia ordered his guards to teach a lesson to the suffragists imprisoned there because they dared to picket Woodrow Wilson's White House for the right to vote. For weeks, the women's only water came from an open pail. Their food--all of it colorless slop--was infested with worms. When one of the leaders, Alice Paul, embarked on a hunger strike, they tied her to a chair, forced a tube down her throat and poured liquid into her until she vomited. She was tortured like this for weeks until word was smuggled out to the press.

So, refresh my memory. Some women won't vote this year because--why, exactly? We have carpool duties? We have to get to work? Our vote doesn't matter? It's raining?
Last week, I went to a sparsely attended screening of HBO's new movie 'Iron Jawed Angels.' It is a graphic depiction of the battle these women waged so that I could pull the curtain at the polling booth and have my say. I am as hamed to say I needed the reminder. All these years later, voter registration is still my passion. But the actual act of voting had become less personal for me, more rote. Frankly, voting often felt more like an obligation than a privilege. Sometimes it was inconvenient.
My friend Wendy, who is my age and studied women's history, saw the HBO movie, too. When she stopped by my desk to talk about it, she looked angry. She was--with herself. 'One thought kept coming back to me as I watched that movie,' she said. 'What would those women think of the way I use, or don't use, my right to vote? All of us take it for granted now, not just younger women, but those of us who did seek to learn.' The right to vote, she said, had becom! e valuable to her 'all over again. HBO released the movie on video and DVD . I wish all history, social studies and government teachers would include the movie in their curriculum I want it shown on Bunco night, too, and anywhere else women gather. I realize this isn't our usual idea of socializing, but we are not voting in the numbers that we should be, and I think a little shock therapy is in order. It is jarring to watch Woodrow Wilson and his cronies try to persuade a psychiatrist to declare Alice Paul insane so that she could be permanently institutionalized. And it is inspiring to watch the doctor refuse. Alice Paul was strong, he said, and brave. That didn't make her crazy.
The doctor admonished the men: 'Courage in women is often mistaken for insanity.'
Please, if you are so inclined, pass this on to all the women you know.
We need to get out and vote and use this right that was fought so hard for by these very courageous women. Whether you vote democratic, republican or independent party -remember to vote, just vote.

Starbucks

Free Starbucks!

You can swing by Starbucks for a free cup of Java on election day! Hit them up, then Krispy Kreme for your sweet treat. Then later, you can have your scoop of ice cream from Ben & Jerry's! Hit up http://www.starbucks.com/ for more details. Don't forget that your vote is very important!

Typos - Uh Sorry

OMG

I just read back at some of my post. Sorry for the typos and other misspellings and such. I tend to write these post late at night. I really do read back over them before I hit "post", but I guess I miss somethings. Any who, I'm a work in progress! So, please just work with me! LOL! Hopefully, I'll get better at this blog thing and can help you save a buck or two!

Working on it,

Amber

November Already?

It seems that the kids just returned to school. Now there are only two months left of this year. Wow, where does the time go? Hopefully, you had a great Halloween! I spent the night with Hanna Montana (I'll post a pic soon of my little star.) Just wanted to jump on to share a few things with you...

Go to the Idahoan Potatoes web site and sign up for a free coupon of their product. I am not really an "instant" potatoes girl, but free is free! I can always make them for the kids or place in a food donation bin at the store.

November 4th. If you didn't vote early, don't forget to get out on 11/4/08! No matter which way you vote, it's your chance to make a difference. EVERY VOTE COUNTS!! You can start your day with some coffee and a free doughnut at Krispy Kremes! They will give out star shaped doughnuts w/ red, white and blue sprinkles on election day. (Don't forget Ben & Jerry's for the free ice cream!)

There are 3 packs of coupons in this Sunday's paper. One will be from Proctor and Gamble. They have good coupons on all type of things. The neat thing about this month is that with each P&G coupon you use, they will donate a free meal to the needy. For more information go to giveameal.org. What an easy way to save money and do a good thing!

One more thing... If you do not print Internet coupons you are really missing out. Some stores will NOT take Internet coupons for one reason or another. Just don't try to use too many at once, check out the stores policy and know that if it does not scan, most likely they will not take it. One great site that I like is www.homesolutionsnew.com They have some great coupons, especially if you like the "smell good" stuff for your home. They even have $4 coupons that really work!

I'm working on a November/Thanksgiving project that hopefully will come together so I can share soon. Until then...Happy Shopping!

Day After Sale!

Does you child like to play dress up?

My six year old daughter LOVES to play dress up! However, the pretend outfits are pricey and really poor quality. One thing that I started doing is hitting the stores the day after Halloween. I have got some really great "costumes" for little to nothing. Lots of Disney princess dresses and fun dress up items. Within a week of 10/31/08, they are marked down to 50%-80% off. Even if you have a little boy, there are some fun super hero costumes or everyday hero's like a fire man and police man. I save what I find for a Christmas gift. I put them in a nice box that becomes
her "trunk."




I had to run to the store today to pick up items for lunch. I found this bag of varies chips for $4.99 (25 in a bag.) I went to the regular chip isle and found the same thing (non Halloween) for $6.99 (24 in a bag.) Sometimes, if an item is tagged with a holiday, it may be cheaper. I plan to hit up the stores on 11/1/08 to catch as many 50%-75% items I can find. There are bags of chips, granola bars, fruit treats just to mention a few. Great for after school snacks, items to donate to your child's teacher or for lunch bags. Why pay more? You may also want to donate them to your local food bank. They don't expire any faster that the items that have no holiday marking on them.

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Halloween Has Gone To The Dogs!

Funny Stuff & Myspace layouts

Love this picture! Someone has too much time on their hands. Anyway, just jumping on to let you know that CVS has their Mars/Hershey/Nestle candy on sale (This is Sunday and Monday Only) for two fun size bags for $3.00. If you have been clipping coupons, you should have a few coupons such as the Mars, $1.00 off when you buy two bags of candy. This makes the candy $1.00 per bag. It is not limited to just the Halloween selection, it includes regular candy also - per the CVS on Wendover. Candy is always a treat, even if you do not Celebtate October 31st.

Smell Good Stuff

I did it again! Score! Walgress has these on sale for $5.99 (the reg. price is $12.99 -way way to high. Very overpriced.) I went to a Walgreens in a different area. They had not on the shelf (just like all the other Walgreens.)However, they offered to look in the back. Low and behold, he returned with 4! I had 2 coupons for $5.00 each = 2/$2 total. I also had 2 coupons from the Internet for $4.00. 2/2 each. It came to $6 plus due to tax. Then I pulled on my register rewards for $3.00! This brought my deal to abound $4.00. Not to shabby when you know the regular price is $12.99 each.

GLAD SOMEONE IS LISTENING TO ME!!

Kmart is a store that I grew up on. There was yet to be a Walmart until the mid 80's in Phoenix, AZ. Well, I've grown up, but Kmart looks like its still stuck back in the day. I do not who designs their stores, but the should really watch HGTV. Start with curb appeal. I have been going on and on about how my ideas could help out Kmart. Some word must have reach them because yesterday I saw a commerical on TV for Kmart and their Layaway service! See, I hate to see a piece of America go down in the dust. I feel that Kmart could really make some changes that Walmart could not do. One slogan could be about "Come back to where you first start. Welcome back, we've never forgot our valued customer." See, now that Walmart has everything locked down, there are several things slacking. Kmart should run with this! During these hard times, Kmart still provides Layaway. During these hard times, Kmart will buy American when possible (use the ad that Walmart use to have w/ pictures of the plant that made the product and how many employees worked there.) And really put some focus on Customer Service. Now that Target has these Nazi return policies and walmart has never had good service, Kmart should run with this!
Okay, let me get off of my soap box. What do you thing?

Happy Shopping,
Amber

Free Tacos & Ice Cream...Yummy

Well, maybe NOT together.
On 10/28, Taco Bell, will give away tacos from 2-6 p.m. It has something to do with a base was stolen during the world series. (Who won?)

Also...Being an American & Voting never tasted soooo good!

Come to participating scoop shops at Ben & Jerrys on November 4th from 5-8pm, show you voted and you'll get a free scoop of ice cream. Show your "I Voted" sticker, a photo of you in front of your polling station, do the "I Voted dance" or just tell us you voted.

Happy Shopping,

Amber

If you haven't picked up a copy of "All You" magazine, you are really missing out. It has really good articles that aren't so "Foo-Foo" that you can not really use them in real life. Plus, the best part is that this magazine has great coupons. Some months are better than others, but I think it is always worth the price. You can only buy this magazine from Walmart, which gives a 10% discount on all of their books and magazines anyway. It's about $2.24 (they just raised their price.) However, you can also order a subscription.

This weekend, All You, will be at local Walmarts! They will have give aways and samples (I love samples!) I am sure they most likely will come with coupons.
I didn't see any locations in High Point, however there are several in Greensboro and Burlington.

Store #: 1842
4424 WEST WENDOVER AVE.
GREENSBORO, NC 27407
Event Date: 10/25/2008

Store #: 3658
2107 PYRAMID VILLAGE BLVD
GREENSBORO (NE), NC 27405
Event Date: 10/25/2008

Store #: 5320
121 W. ELMSLEY DRIVE
GREENSBORO (SE), NC 27406
Event Date: 10/26/2008

Store #: 1287
3141 GARDEN ROAD
BURLINGTON, NC 27215
Event Date: 10/26/2008

Store #: 3612
530 SO. GRAHAM-HOPEDALE ROAD
BURLINGTON (N), NC 27217
Event Date: 10/25/2008

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Kmart

Next Round of Kmart Super Doubles 10/26-11/1
Kmart will double coupons up to $2.00!
If you have a coupon for $1.00, they will take $2.00 off!
I think this is only good at Super Kmart!

Happy Shopping,

Amber

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I haven't been on this week because there really were not any sales or items that I was very excited about. Lowes food store does have a few items on sale such as Milk $2.99, eggs .99 and water $2.99. You must have their weekly ad and clip the store coupons to get these deals.

Little or no cost event for the family:
On 10/25/08 from 5-9 pm, there will be a Halloween event in downtown Greensboro.
There will be free candy, costume contest, family haunted house, games, arts and crafts and food. Most activities are free or have a small fee. For more details, call 336-373-2733.

Attention Seniors!
Hamricks Department store offers 10% off your entire purchase each Tuesday. This includes regular, sale and clearance items. Again, this is for our Senior shoppers only.

Happy Savings,
Amber

Local Area Info

If you live in High Point, there is a new CiCi's Pizza that will open on 10/13/08. It is located in the Palladium Center (Palladium Movies Theater area.) If you are the first 100 guest, you will receive a free lunch and a card good for one free buffett a month. They open at 11 a.m.

Also...

Mark your calendars for a "Ultimate Yard Sale" on November 8th, from 8-12 at 200 East Market Street in Greensboro (News and Record Parking Lot.) There will be open space for church groups, families and businesses. Bet you can find some great deals.

KMART-

From my understanding, Kmart in Burlington will close their doors at the end of November. I am sure that the closer we get to the date, the cheaper items will become. Perhaps you can pick up some holiday gifts.

The Kmart in GSO (Wendover Rd.) is also doubling coupons. From what I have been told, they will no longer be a "grocery store."

Happy Savings,
Amber

Open! Open! Open!

The new Ross will open this Saturday in High Point! I LLLOOOVVVEEE Ross. I like that they have a good selection for people of all shapes and sizes. The great thing about this store is that it is down the side walk from T.J. Maxx! That's right, in the same shopping center. We can buy a little more because we will save on gas!

Ross is located on Eastcheaster, just east of North Main street in High Point.

As always...Happy Shopping,

Amber

She Shops, She Scores!

Just jumping on to share my deals at Lowes Food. The grand total for the above items?
$8.78! That includes tax. Here is what I paid for the following:
Tennessee Pride Sausage .35 per pack (I got 4)
Hot Pockets .50 per box (3)
Betty Crocker Frosting .39 (1)
Betty Crocker box potatoes w/ cheese .45 (2)
Little Debbie Muffins .14 (3)
Hillshire Thin Sandwich Meat .89 (1)
Eggo Waffles .50 (3)
Soft Soap .45 (1)
Colgate Toothpaste .25 (1)
Oral B Tooth Brush - I think 39Cents - Don't remember the amount of the coupon.
Again, cheaper that the Dollar Store!

I found a list of deals and the matching coupons for Lowes at "Hotcouponworld.com"

Happy Savings!

Amber

...This Just In...

Lowes Food Stores are doing the "TRIPLE COUPON" deals!
Thanks to a tip I received this morning(Thanks Eddie),
I received information that Lowes will triple coupons today, Thursday and Friday only. Sounds like a great time to save some $$$!!!

Happy Shopping,

Amber

Is The Dollar Store Really Cheaper?

Sometimes people think that the best deal can always be found at your local dollar store, however this is not always the case. Yes, you can find some great deals at the dollar store, but often times you sacrifice quality for price. There are some items that I really don't like to "go cheap" on. I prefer to use a brand that I can trust. This week at Harris Teeter I purchased 5 Kotex feminine products for $1.00 each. Yes, they were full size. The sale was $2 each (great sale.) Plus, I had several $1.00 coupons. This made each box $1.00 each and I purchased a brand that I know and trust.

The 1000 Flush toilet bowl cleaner is usually priced at $3.99 each (way over priced if you ask me.) They were bogo at Harris Tetter, making them $1.99 each. Of course, I had several $1.00 coupons = making them $1.00 each.

I also purchased some Hefty zip lock bags for LESS than $1.00 each. They were on sale $3 for 2 = $1.50 each. I had a .50 coupon = $1.00 (double coupons.)

So, remember...the Dollar store is NOT always the cheapest route to take when you want a good price AND a great product.

Happy Savings,

Amber

Coupon Sunday Coming!

Thanks to Taylortown Coupon Preview, found that there should be four packs of coupons this Sunday! Three Smart Source and one Valassic. These seem to be good coupons and will help you stock pile some good items. There will be several for Campbells products, which you can find for little to nothing during this time of year. Also, Green Giant, Pillsbury and Loreal coupons, just to name a few. I always get a GSO paper and a High Point Paper. I have found that sometimes, they are not the same coupons. I think I may buy at least three. If I can get these items for free, why not?

Girls night out!

Tonight, I enjoyed the evening with my two daughters. We had dinner (unplanned, but nice.) We really had a nice time. We ended the night at Borders book store. I signed up for their free savings card, but lost it a while back. However, they can look it up by email address. I found out that you get an automatic 40% off of new releases, any dvd or cd! There was a new cd that my sixteen year old daughter wanted, on sale for $7.99. Since I got the additional 40%, why not? I also picked up a really neat book by Disney that teaches young children about eating well and taking care of their body. It was only $2.99! My six year old loved it. Plus there were several books on their "bargain" racks. Some would make really great gifts for the holidays. There were so many under $5.00 for adults AND children. I really could not shop because my girls were with me, however I plan to return soon.

Happy Savings,

Amber

HOPE THE 3RD TIME IS A CHARM!

This is the 3rd time I've tried to add to my blog. Last night we lost power due to a storm. Tonight, I hit the wrong button and closed my computer down. So, let's try this again!





Everything you see in the picture was under $4.00! There was a GREAT 90% clearance sale at CVS (Wendover & Guilford College area.) The 4 drawer storage was only $2 and some change. The original price was over $22 bucks! Plus I got a shoe rack that you hang over the door for under $2.00. It holds 30 pairs of shoes! I also picked up some other odds and ends. I had $3 in CVS bucks, so my total was under $4.00!
Finding great sales like this does take a little effort. You've got to go to the stores often and watch for the sales. Remember, each store is different. The CVS by Guilford College (Friendly Ave.) still had the same items at only 30% off. Walgreens also has great clearance, however all their stores have their own schedule. This is a great way to get gifts for Christmas. Walgreens has great toys that tend to go on clearance fast.



Lately, the coupons in the paper haven't been the best. This is a great time to email the companies that produce/make the brands that you like. Most likely you'll get a few coupons in the mail. Right now, Del Monte is giving away $35 in coupons for signing up for their news letter. So is Betty Crocker, Dinner Made Simple. Just goggle their web sites for more information. These will be great coupons to have right before the Thanksgiving sales! Maybe Harris Tetter will have triple coupons before Thanksgiving!

Speaking of triple coupons...Kmart will be doubling their coupons up to $2.00, which is really good. I think it is this week only. Not sure if GSO is included, so call first. The Raleigh area is listed. It must be a Super Kmart from my understanding. (Sorry High Point.)

Last but not least, A night out with your honey?

Go to freenightoftheater.net for two free tickets to local productions. There is a really good one that will take place mid October at A&T. There is also a few in the GSO area. See the web site for more details. The catch? They just want to promote local theater. Search coupons4greensboro to find a coupon for dinner (lots of bogo), go to dinner and then to the theater.

Until next time, Happy Savings,
Amber

Thanks For The Rainy Day!

Sometimes you need a little help from up above to slow you down. That is why I am thankful for the rain and wind tonight. If it had been clear, I am sure that I would have tried to run out and do "something." Go to the stores, hit up Belks, dinner with a friend or whatever. Since it was rainy and wet, I stayed home with my girls. We made chili, watched the debate and now here I am. A nice night at home!

Now for the savings (the good stuff!)

I went to Wal-Mart yesterday and stocked up on tank tops and camys. My daughter (16) likes the layered look and needed some shirts for under her tops. This deal was right on time. They had just about every color and size for $3.00! I know the weather will be cooler, however you can still do the layered look. At work, I like to wear them under my button up tops. They also had a lot of cheap $3.00 work out shorts and tops. (Not for the big girls.)

Going to Fall Festival with my 6 year old in the morning so until next time,

Happy Savings!

Amber

Wow! Time Passes By Fast!

I can't beleive that it has been about a week since I last got to add to my blog. Time goes by sooo fast. I guess this "going back to school" thing has really got to me. However, I WANT that piece of paper (degree.) So how have my savings been lately?

I waited until Sunday afternoon to go to Harris Teeter for the triple coupons. I know, not the best move. However, I really didn't see any GREAT sales, even with the triple coupons. I guess last time around really got be spoiled because there were a lot of BOGO w/ the triples. I did manage to save $108 and spent $52. I stocked up on the BOGO meet (stew meat and cube steak.)

I also did some shopping theapry this last weekend with my 16 year old daughter. We went to a store called Cititrends. I'm on the plus size, so they have some cute tops at a great price. Their clearance is really cheap. However, these are NOT clothes that will last forever and I would NEVER put them in the dryer. However, if you like trendy clothes and a great price, that is your place. They have a lot of urban lines of clothes as well.

Speaking of clothes, do you ever think about going to Sears?
I never think of Sears, however my son works there so I get to use his discount. They actually have some cute things for my 6 year old daughter. Of course I still shop the clearance racks, but the prices are really good. The plus is that they have a program called Kidsavtage Club. If the clothes wear out before they grow of of them, they will replace the item with an identical item or similar item of equal or lesser value. This even includes shoes!

No great deals that I saw at CVS or Walgreens. As for grocery sales this week, I think Lowes Food has the best deals. Yes, they double.

I hope to jump on a bit more. Don't give up on me!

Happy Savings,
Amber

...at the YMCA...

Hey Folks,

Just want to share that the Ragsdale YMCA in Jamestown will have a huge yard sale this Sat., 9/20/08. It is to raise money for their program. Hours are 8-12. If you live in the area, you can find some great deals. They are located on High Point Road, just south of Guilford College Road, next to GTCC.

Also, Target in High Point has backpacks, lunch boxes and stuff for your yard on sale. I reseed my yard each fall (not sure if this is correct as I am from Arizona, where there is no grass.) The seed is about $5 per bag, which is really a great deal. I refuse to be the single mom on the block with an ugly yard! LOL

Happy Savings,
Amber

It's True! It's True!

Just checked Harris Teeter's Web site and.....

TRIPLE COUPONS 9/18-9/21!!!

If you have never joined in on the triple coupon event, get ready. I suggest that you go on Thursday (as soon as possible) to get the best selection. Knowing when your local store gets their trucks in is also good info to have. (Yes, I've called and asked. Hey, it saved me money, time and GAS.) Don't forget that you are not the only person who wants a great deal, so lets not get greedy with taking the last of all the items. There will be other sales. If you find that they are out of an item, don't forget to ask for a rain check. No, it doesn't help if you miss out on the triple coupons, but it does save the sale for you.

Happy Savings!

Amber

Busy As A Bee

Sorry that I haven't been able to really post any sales. Work has been CRAZY, plus I am really busy with homework. I have returned to school to finish my degree. In this day and age, I just feel that I need to have "that" piece of paper. I am a single mom and just have myself to fall back on. I feel that I need to do everything I can to make sure my family is taken care of. In today's world, you just never know what can happen to your job. That being said, All the more reason to watch out for the sales, huh?

I do want to share that if you have a VIC card (Harris Teeter), make sure you link your card to your email. They will send you EVIC emails. This is how I found out about the $25 gift card for trans. meds to HT. PLUS, you get $10 in credit for each script you get filled there! It is credited to your next purchase of $10 or more. I have $10 waiting on me now! This past weekend I received the $25 at the store, in the form of a gift card and $10 credit/rewards that was automatically applied to my sale. Plus, I really played the coupons and the box top sales. I did GREAT!

I also have gone to CVS this past week. Looks like everyone is playing the same deals.Check out KeepingtheKingdomFirst.com for great CVS deals and ideas.

Guess that is all for now. I need to get some ZZZZzzzzz's!

Happy Savings,

Amber

PS. Someone told me that HT will have triple coupons this week. Not sure if true, but keep a look out for it!

Oh No, Not Again!

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Word around GSO is that gas stations are placing a 10 gallen limit on gas per car. Also, gas will increase to almost or over $5.00 per gallen because of hurricane Ike, in the gulf of Mexico. The pipeline has been shut down, so no gas is on the way to our area. Just great! I am so lucky that Harris Teeter is down the street from me. Plus, Walgreens is right across the street from Harris Teeter.

I just have one question, there were other hurricanes in the gulf before Katrina, why did that never have an impact on gas? Just thought I'd ask.

Happy Savings,
Amber

What's on Sale this Week?

I know it must seem that I only give "props" to Harris Teeter, however they almost always out perform the other stores. They did it again this week. Lots of BOGO (buy one/get one free) sales, they are also having a 3 day sale this Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Their ground beef 80% is under $2.00 per pound. I usually like to buy the leaner ground beef, like 93%. However, I have found that Harris Teeter's 80/20% ground beef is better quality than Food Lions 93/7%! Harris Teeter has a great meat market! There are also several buy 2/get 3 FREE deals. Just think about pairing up some coupons with these deals. I've got to review my coupons and match them up to the sales. I'll share what I find, but may not be until Friday. (Have a BIG test tomorrow night. Wish me luck!)Remember, SR's get a discount on Thursday's at Harris Teeter!
Food Lion also has several BOGO sales, however they do not double coupons.

Happy Savings,
Amber

The Trill Is Going, Going, Gone!

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WOW, this past week just zoomed! So, it's back to work in the morning. Please, don't get me wrong, I am thankful to have a job. However, I'd sure like another week off. I did get my junk closet cleaned out and some other items on my long list completed. Not a lot of time for any shopping over the weekend. The ads from Sunday's paper were not wonderful. I think it's that "in between time" for good sales. Keep an eye out and let me know if you see anything that is a "must."

Happy Savings,

Amber