tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40713017716561163262024-03-19T16:46:39.565-04:00Tell me all your thoughtsAmy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-28799940400444286392009-08-17T11:08:00.004-04:002009-08-17T11:18:04.337-04:00Awesome Bi-Lo tripOn Friday morning, I went to Bi-Lo. It was a great trip. When I first went in, I bought $100 in gas gift cards, which gave me a $20 coupon for a future purchase. I then went shopping. I got:<div><br /><div>2 boxes of cereal</div><div>4 boxes of Pop-Tarts (with 12 for the price of 8 in each box)</div><div>1 box of store-brand toaster pastries</div><div>4 boxes of Eggo waffles</div><div>1 box of store brand waffles </div><div>1 store-brand frozen lasagna (had to find a filler item!!)</div><div><br /></div><div>I used coupons on the Eggos and the Pop-tarts, and I had buy (national brand), get (store brand) free coupons for the store brand waffles and toaster pastries. I used the $20 coupon from my gift card purchase, and owed $0.71 including tax. My subtotal before savings was $35.11, and after was $34.63, for a savings percentage of 99%. Oh, and I got a form for a $10 Bi-Lo mail-in rebate for buying 8 Kellogg's products. Not too bad!</div></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-60558533373001044352009-06-24T08:42:00.005-04:002009-06-24T08:56:44.080-04:00Great week! and a contestIt's been a while since I've posted, and we've been doing well. Jamie got a new job at his current workplace - it's a promotion to a supervisory position, and it means we're staying here for a while! Hannah is doing so well, rolling this way and that, turning herself in circles, and so desperately interested in crawling. Nora is doing so well with her schooling, and she is becoming such a lovely little girl (from being a lovely preschooler). She is a joy to teach. I am growing and learning in the weekly Women's Bible Study I've been co-facilitating. You really do get a lot more out of studying when you have to be prepared to move the discussion along, and I'm really enjoying it.<div><br /><div>I've been trucking along with the money saving. This week was excellent. I spent $34.61 at CVS, Kroger, and Publix. I saved $116.36. That's a savings of 77%! I got a bunch of produce, milk, 6 large boxes of Cheerios, 4 boxes of fruit snacks, pancake mix, sugar, granola bars, 5 boxes of Always Infinity pads (!!), and more. <div><br /></div><div>I have just signed up for a contest All*You magazine is promoting (starting 7/13/09): Can you spend less than $25 on edible groceries per person, per week, for a month? They are interested to see if it can be done, and I think I can safely say YES! Even if I don't count Hannah (baby food just isn't a huge part of the budget), I am certain I can keep it below $75/week for edibles. I'm not sure how one wins (spend the least? drawing of one eligible participant?), but the prize is a $1000 grocery gift card, a years' worth of Knorr sides, and a feature in the magazine. It would be way cool to win! </div></div></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-46198696406571974832009-03-20T11:38:00.001-04:002009-03-20T11:40:16.549-04:00Giveaway at Choyster CashHey - there's a $100 giveaway at <a href="http://choystercash.blogspot.com/2009/03/enter-100-cash-giveaway.html">Choyster Cash</a> - check it out!Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-55824065689762815742009-03-19T12:22:00.007-04:002009-03-19T12:41:42.698-04:00Friday Finals March 14-20This was a pretty good week. J went to Kroger <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">without</span> my Plus card <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">and</span> no coupons! I almost choked when I saw the total (half our budget!) and the savings ($0). I realized I was going to have to step it up to stay on budget, as all he got was coffee and beer!! I went to Publix twice, and took advantage of the <a href="http://www.gatherroundthegrill.com/coupon.php">amazing coupon</a> Kingsford has going. So here's the breakdown, and the pictures:<div><br /></div><div>Kroger</div><div>Spent: 29.19</div><div>Saved: 0 :o(</div><div>Total: 29.19</div><div>% Saved: 0%</div><div><br /></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXa1sIMp061EKK9upo6ghzrEAnvrSdzk8KfyMJwgqj156HrzL3ymJBcSBcTQFmNOE1yJhvSh9Nphcqq6BJ0wMO9b68WlBJMOVWxrFc_WPqrRH0eP3VHouKepQvTWD7c59EfnlGLXESLTib/s320/24.04.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314937740161417570" /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Publix #1</div><div><div>Spent: 20.53</div><div>Saved: 29.58</div><div>Total: 50.11</div><div>% Saved: 59%</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWFN7DU4oPBWnmV-g8ZrUyE0OojiRZocBvUng9G0tYB24DWEwoVMvyXPyZ5WIDqZcFzg_beAtMfARDggNxS1vsTIqNfbMQ5fqSgOfdq5nSzoQqDE7rerpLsiN2IfwmAzd3e4dfQLTAbZwo/s320/13.48.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314938111128884050" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Publix #2</div><div><div>Spent: 12.71</div><div>Saved: 36.55</div><div>Total: 49.26</div><div>% Saved: 74%</div><div>(not pictured: $3.37 worth of "incentive" jelly beans for Nora, to be doled out as good grocery store behavior merits)</div><div><br /></div><div>Publix total</div><div>Spent: 33.24</div><div>Saved: 66.13</div><div>Total: 99.37</div><div>% Saved: 67%</div><div><br /></div><div>Week's Total<br /></div><div><div>Spent: 62.43</div><div>Saved: 66.13</div><div>Total: 128.56</div><div>% Saved: 51%</div><div><br /></div><div>Check out <a href="http://www.southernsavers.com/">Southern Savers</a> for sale/coupon matchups, and for inspiration from other savers!</div></div></div></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-15887073825515586432009-03-06T07:50:00.000-05:002009-03-06T08:00:34.182-05:00Friday Finals first week of March<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcXh5QoYOJJmJDUFuhMCuxrMGIaY1TBbFf0f75-KD49p00_qRUwEvew92MJKN4GDpiuRgKNkc2fpn7BFUeRLuzmioCuH88WykbM582WouazT8GsmmVH_YcUDre3hqCmydAAvAy018nDlDm/s1600-h/PICT0206.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcXh5QoYOJJmJDUFuhMCuxrMGIaY1TBbFf0f75-KD49p00_qRUwEvew92MJKN4GDpiuRgKNkc2fpn7BFUeRLuzmioCuH88WykbM582WouazT8GsmmVH_YcUDre3hqCmydAAvAy018nDlDm/s400/PICT0206.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309423426036142434" /></a>As I went a bit over budget last week, I kept it moderate this week.<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(41, 48, 59); font-size:13px;"><div>Kroger </div><div>Spent: $21.24</div><div>Total value: $36.83</div><div>Saved: $15.59</div><div>% saved: 42.3%</div><div><br /></div><div>Publix</div><div>Spent: $23.70</div><div>Total value: $46.03</div><div>Saved: $22.33<br /></div><div>% saved: 48.5%<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Target</div><div>Spent: $2.69</div><div>Total value: $5.38<br /></div><div>Saved: $2.69</div><div>% saved: 50%<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Totals:</div><div>Spent: $47.63</div><div>Total value: $88.24<br /></div><div>Saved: $40.61</div><div>% saved: 46% </div><div><br /></div><div>I have a question - what is your opinion of Aldi? A new one opened here yesterday, and while they boast 50% off of the grocery stores, I'm not entirely sure that I can't do better. Do you shop at Aldi? For everything or for specific items?</div><div><br /></div><div>To see more savers (who are very good at this!), go to <a href="http://www.southernsavers.com/">SouthernSavers.com</a>. Have a great weekend!</div></span></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-21747654481459187522009-03-01T16:09:00.006-05:002009-03-05T13:51:12.484-05:00Friday Finals (a few days late)Wow - it's been busy around here lately! We started a bathroom remodel (yay!) and the girls have gotten colds (boo). I have been learning much from a <a href="http://www.southernsavers.com/">great couponing site</a>, and I've tallied last week's spending and saving.<div><br /></div><div>Walmart</div><div>Spent: $7.25</div><div>Total value: $7.97</div><div>Saved: $0.72</div><div>% saved: 9%</div><div><br /></div><div>Kroger (2 trips)</div><div>Spent: $52.20</div><div>Total value: $11.25</div><div>Saved: $59.05</div><div>% saved: 53%</div><div>(I have a $4.99 MIR coming from All-Bran)</div><div><br /></div><div>Publix</div><div>Spent: $28.04 </div><div>Total value: $80.30</div><div>Saved: $52.26<br /></div><div>% saved: 65%<br /></div><div>(I have a $10 gift card coming thanks to General Mills and Publix)</div><div><br /></div><div>CVS</div><div>Spent: $7.54</div><div>Total value: $32.54<br /></div><div>Saved: $25</div><div>% saved: 77%<br /></div><div>(I have a $6.99 MIR coming from Organix Shampoo, and I got $6 ECBs)</div><div><br /></div><div>Totals:</div><div>Spent: $95.03 ($67.05 after $ back)</div><div>Total value: $232.06<br /></div><div>Saved: $137.03 ($165.01 after $ back)</div><div>% saved: 59% (71% after $ back)</div><div><br /></div><div>I also got some chicken at Reid's big sale. It worked out to about $0.35/lb for leg quarters, so I got 10 pounds. A friend of mine got <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">80 pounds!</span> That seemed like a bit more than I could handle!</div><div><br /></div><div>All in all, it was a good week. I went a little over budget, but I stocked up big time on shampoo, toilet paper, chicken, and snack foods. I think my list for next week will be a bit smaller.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-64616833063841637462009-01-29T16:32:00.002-05:002009-01-29T16:34:30.564-05:00$4.65Not including cute girl.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 10px; white-space: pre; "></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 10px; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 10px; white-space: pre;"><a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=PICT0166.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/PICT0166.jpg" border="0" alt="$4.65" /></a><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 10px; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 10px; white-space: pre;"><a href="http://southernsavers.com/2009/01/kroger-weekly-ad-125-131/#comment-4250">This site</a> helped me immensely! Thanks!</span></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-53137717159460274352009-01-12T12:48:00.002-05:002009-01-12T13:01:11.781-05:00Held<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; "><div>When Nora was delivered, I found out that my uterus is unicornuate - essentially, I have half a uterus. After doing some research, I realized how blessed I was to have her, and that I may have complications in any future pregnancy. While my pregnancy with Hannah went well and turned out well, there was one little hiccup. I had a repeat cesarean, and the doctor made a comment about a "window" while she was operating. We asked her about it later, and she said that my prior cesarean scar was so thin in one place that she could see Hannah through it, and that she only needed her fingers to open my uterus for delivery - no instruments. We asked her what that meant, and she told us that we should not have any more children, as this window was likely to recur, and could rupture easily. At that moment, I mourned the fact that I would not ever bear another child. Upon further reflection, we came to realize that again we were blessed that Hannah (and I) were even here. I am so grateful that God kept us safe. I am still struggling, some days more than others, but I feel like I'm starting to come to a place of acceptance. This powerful song had me sobbing in the days just after Hannah was born, and it still makes me tear up. Life was not promised to be easy, but I know God is holding me.</div><div><br /></div><div>Held (Natalie Grant)</div><div><br /></div>Two months is too little<br />They let him go<br />They had no sudden healing<br />To think that providence<br />Would take a child from his mother<br />While she prays, is appalling<br />Who told us we'd be rescued<br />What has changed and<br />Why should we be saved from nightmares<br />We're asking why this happens to us<br />Who have died to live, it's unfair<br />This is what it means to be held<br />How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life<br />And you survive<br />This is what it is to be loved and to know<br />That the promise was when everything fell<br />We'd be held<br />This hand is bitterness<br />We want to taste it and<br />Let the hatred numb our sorrows<br />The wise hand opens slowly<br />To lilies of the valley and tomorrow<br />This is what it means to be held<br />How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life<br />And you survive<br />This is what it is to be loved and to know<br />That the promise was when everything fell<br />We'd be held<br />If hope is born of suffering<br />If this is only the beginning<br />Can we not wait, for one hour<br />Watching for our savior<br />This is what it means to be held<br />How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life<br />And you survive<br />This is what it is to be loved and to know<br />That the promise was when everything fell<br />We'd be held<br />[Repeat Chorus]<br />This is what it means to be held<br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-7285449040722157742008-10-20T08:50:00.002-04:002008-10-20T09:04:31.606-04:00Menu Plan Monday (and last week's eats!)<div><a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=mpmfall.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/mpmfall.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div>I was remiss in not posting my menu last week (Hi Sarah!). We did pretty much stay on our menu last week (week 3 of the month-long menu), and have 2 weeks left for this menu. What I have found is I like having a menu for a month, but shopping for a month did not work out budget-wise. Oh well - live and learn, I guess! So here is this week's menu first, and then a round-up of last week's meals.<div><br /></div><div>Monday: Tuna Sandwiches, carrot sticks</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: Chicken schnitzel, latkes (reheated), oranges</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday: Church</div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday: Shepherd's Pie, Bread, Salad</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday: Leftovers or Beans and rice</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday: Beans, tortillas, fixin's</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday: Venison roast, green beans, bread, mashed potatoes</div><div><br /></div><div>Last week: M: leftovers/recovery from camping day; T: Lasagna, veggies; W: church; Th: burgers w/fixin's, fries, carrot sticks; F: Ham and spinach calzone; Sa: Eggs, ham, pumpkin bread; Su: cauliflower soup and latkes (YUM!)</div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-49893972297094821332008-10-06T08:27:00.003-04:002008-10-06T08:49:36.179-04:00Menu Plan Monday<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; "><a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=mpmfall.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/mpmfall.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>Short week this week - at least at home. We're going camping this weekend with another family from church, and other than deciding that we'd each take a night to cook dinner, not much planning has been done. Yikes! It will be fun to go. We'll camping at Hunting Island, which was one of the first places we visited in South Carolina (outside of Aiken) in February. It's on the coast, and the weather is supposed to be delicious! I have camped while pregnant before, but I was not <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">this</span> pregnant, so we'll see how I hold up. <div>We did pretty well on our first week of the month-long menu. My big mistake was planning a large meal for the day I knew we'd be grocery shopping. By the time we got home, I was beat! Instead, I cooked a packet of beans and rice, served it with sour cream, and called it good. I made the big meal - chicken - later in the week, replacing a freezer meal I had planned to use. Also, we grilled 1/2 the pork loin instead of using it for barbeque (slow-cooker recipe). That was a great decision - it was so good! </div><div>Without further ado, week two!</div><div><br /></div><div>Monday: Macaroni and Cheese with cauliflower puree (from Deceptively Delicious), sauteed zucchini</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: Barbeque Pork, corn, salad, bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday: Church (may be bringing main dish for 15 - tacos?)</div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday: Nachos, cheese, sour cream, tomato, olives, taco meat (freezer), beans, avocado? (on sale this week!) (may turn leftovers into seven layer dip, as we'll be leaving Friday)</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday: Camping - hot dogs or hamburgers</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday: Camping - hot dogs or hamburgers</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday: Tuna casserole (freezer), sauteed broccoli</div><div><br /></div><div>For more great menus, check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">OrgJunkie</a>! Have a great week! </div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-81308133021827511812008-09-29T10:40:00.002-04:002008-09-29T10:49:36.366-04:00Menu Plan Monday<a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=mpmfall.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/mpmfall.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><div><br /></div><div>Menu time! I'm in a bit of a rush - I may add recipe links later this week!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Monday: Pasta with meat sauce, green beans, bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: Roast chicken, mashed potatoes (double and freeze), sauteed broccoli, bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday: Church</div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday: Wonton tacos (meat in freezer), lettuce, tomato, sour cream, refried beans</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday: Pizza, sauteed broccoli and zucchini</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday: Chicken soup with wonton kreplach, glazed carrots, matzo</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday: BBQ pork, corn, bread</div><div><br /></div><div>For more menu ideas, go to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">OrgJunkie</a>! Have a great week!</div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-11352746074333320382008-09-22T07:54:00.002-04:002008-09-22T08:39:37.018-04:00Menu Plan Monday<a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=familyfavs-11.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/familyfavs-11.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><div><br /></div><div>Good morning - time to talk menus!</div><div>Last week got a little out of order, but we ate everything! The chicken noodle soup and the quiche were standouts. I actually made the quiche without crust, and it was still very good (not to mention healthier!)</div><div><br /></div><div>So the task for this week is to post or link to a recipe for one of my family's favorite meals. We really enjoy <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cuban-Black-Beans-I/Detail.aspx">Cuban Black Beans</a>. They are good on their own or with meat (usually I fix pork chops or pork tenderloin). We top them with sour cream and tomatoes, and serve them with tortillas. Delicious!</div><div><br /></div><div>This week's menu:</div><div><br /></div><div>Breakfasts: Store-bought cereal (big treat!), granola, hard-boiled eggs, waffles</div><div><br /></div><div>Lunches: Leftovers, sandwiches</div><div><br /></div><div>Snacks: Store-bought cereal (again, big treat!), popcorn, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Uncooked-Banana-Pudding/Detail.aspx">banana pudding</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Dinners:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Monday: <a href="http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/254/Perkins_Restaurant_Pancakes47785.shtml">Pancakes</a>, bacon, fruit, juice<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Tuesday: Venison Stroganoff, noodles, frozen veg, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/French-Bread-Rolls-to-Die-For/Detail.aspx">bread</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Wednesday: Tacos with fixins, refried beans (make double amount of meat; freeze)<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Thursday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Chicken-Pot-Pie-IX/Detail.aspx">Chicken Pot Pie</a>, salad (make double amount of sauce; freeze)<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Friday: Pizza, carrot sticks, fruit<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Saturday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Easy-Tuna-Casserole/Detail.aspx">Tuna casserole</a>, fruit, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/French-Bread-Rolls-to-Die-For/Detail.aspx">bread</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Sunday: Leftover buffet!<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>For more menu planning ideas, as well as tried and true family favorite recipes, head over to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">OrgJunkie</a>! Have a wonderful week.</div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-41864791392638532612008-09-15T07:14:00.002-04:002008-09-15T07:45:16.971-04:00Menu Plan MondayAnother Monday, another meal plan!<div>Last week went well - the potato soup and the lemon meringue pie were the only "new" things, and they were both very good! (My husband might say the pie was a little <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">too</span> good!)</div><div>This week is more or less a pantry week - trying to economize a bit.</div><div><br /></div><div>Breakfasts: Granola, hard boiled eggs, cottage cheese, waffles</div><div><br /></div><div>Lunches: Leftovers, sandwiches</div><div><br /></div><div>Sweets: pudding (maybe banana?), bars/cookies (need to make some for a bake sale anyways!)</div><div><br /></div><div>Dinners: </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Monday: Pork Chops, canned peaches, green beans, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/French-Bread-Rolls-to-Die-For/Detail.aspx">rolls</a></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Tuesday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Awesome-Chicken-Noodle-Soup/Detail.aspx">Chicken noodle soup</a>, sandwiches, grapes</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Wednesday: Church - need to find out what to bring</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Thursday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cuban-Black-Beans-I/Detail.aspx">Cuban Beans</a>, venison steaks, salad, tortillas</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Friday: Breakfast for Dinner - eggs, bacon, orange juice, biscuits<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Saturday: Sausages with fixins, mac and cheese, salad<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Sunday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Spinach-Bacon-Quiche/Detail.aspx">Quiche</a>, grapes, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/French-Bread-Rolls-to-Die-For/Detail.aspx">rolls</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>For more ideas, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">Laura</a>! Have a delicious week!</div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-61327493726527356522008-09-11T15:22:00.004-04:002008-09-11T15:27:27.267-04:00Bliss<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLdiI4ZHTO1wFMiQnV3HQ-l8d81EFKvtOhTMFwncRzg-0-dB46h7dZ8jKK75a9q4cSu93X4glrEde2TsbKoo5FpE63jhIK0O-k01hyphenhyphenQUJmzOphZC8XyUZP88txmFuCIP-RgfSEYUTV7i3i/s1600-h/PICT0003.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLdiI4ZHTO1wFMiQnV3HQ-l8d81EFKvtOhTMFwncRzg-0-dB46h7dZ8jKK75a9q4cSu93X4glrEde2TsbKoo5FpE63jhIK0O-k01hyphenhyphenQUJmzOphZC8XyUZP88txmFuCIP-RgfSEYUTV7i3i/s400/PICT0003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244847572392689442" /></a><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(85, 26, 139); text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-40288863455652653252008-09-08T08:57:00.002-04:002008-09-08T09:24:13.183-04:00Menu Plan MondayGood morning! Last week went pretty much according to schedule, until our company arrived. Then we just sort of took it day by day for meal planning. It worked out well; we have some carryover meals for this week. Unfortunately, we're now battling colds here. Pregnancy + cold = really uncomfortable. I know we'll be over it soon, but it's had a definite impact on menu planning this week - a menu of comforting foods.<div><br /></div><div>Breakfasts: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Honey-Nut-Granola/Detail.aspx">Granola</a> (really good!), hard boiled eggs, waffles</div><div><br /></div><div>Lunches: leftovers, sandwiches</div><div><br /></div><div>Snacks: Popcorn, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Creamy-Rice-Pudding/Detail.aspx">rice pudding</a>, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Grandmas-Lemon-Meringue-Pie/Detail.aspx">lemon meringue pie</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Dinners:</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Monday: Spaghetti w/<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Italian-Spaghetti-Sauce-with-Meatballs/Detail.aspx">meat sauce</a>, salad (or frozen veg), bread<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Tuesday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Golden-Potato-Soup/Detail.aspx">Golden Potato Soup</a>, grilled ham & cheese, grapes<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Wednesday: Church (depending on cold status), otherwise leftovers/sandwiches<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Thursday: Roast w/veggies, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/French-Baguettes/Detail.aspx">bread</a>, green beans<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Friday: Eggs, Bacon, Toast, Orange Juice<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Saturday: Pizza, salad<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Sunday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Chicken-and-Stuffing-Casserole/Detail.aspx">Chicken Casserole</a>, corn, cranberry sauce, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/French-Baguettes/Detail.aspx">bread</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Many more menus over at <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">OrgJunkie</a>. Have a great week!</div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-85375138935949658382008-09-01T07:02:00.002-04:002008-09-01T07:30:08.182-04:00Menu Plan MondayGood grief! September? I know time flies, but this is ridiculous!<div>Anyways, it's that time again - Menu Plan Monday! We did pretty well last week - has all but the venison steaks, and forgot a few sides (oh well!). We ended up only having company for one night, so I made a ton of pizza, and those <a href="http://www.bigoven.com/150468-Boston-Market-Cinnamon-Apples-recipe.html">Cinnamon Apples</a> for dessert. Both were big hits - the apples are a very nice topping for vanilla ice cream. This coming week will be different again - tonight and Wednesday night will be "normal", but midweek church happenings and another family visit later this week will change it up a bit. As always, many more delightful menus await at Laura's site, <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">OrgJunkie</a> - check it out!</div><div><br /></div><div>Breakfasts: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Honey-Nut-Granola/Detail.aspx">Granola</a>, hard-boiled eggs, waffles</div><div><br /></div><div>Snacks: Popcorn (new air-popper!), Brownies (when company comes)</div><div><br /></div><div>Lunches: Leftovers, sandwiches</div><div><br /></div><div>Monday: Grilled Cheese, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Rich-and-Creamy-Tomato-Basil-Soup/Detail.aspx">Tomato Soup</a>, Grapes</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: Church (dinner provided)</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday: Burgers, Fries, Carrots, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Ranch-Dressing-II/Detail.aspx">Ranch dip</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday: Roast, Veggies, Bread, Green Beans</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday: Spaghetti with <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Italian-Spaghetti-Sauce-with-Meatballs/Detail.aspx">Meat Sauce (I sub crumbled venison for the meatballs)</a>, Salad, Bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Chicken-and-Stuffing-Casserole/Detail.aspx">Chicken Casserole</a> (I use whatever chicken I have on hand), Corn, Cranberry Sauce, Bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday: Beans on Toast, Eggs, Fruit</div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-59678323631273860292008-08-25T06:55:00.001-04:002008-08-25T06:53:27.339-04:00Menu Plan MondayAh, Monday . . . must be time to menu plan. I've had a much easier time of it this week. Last week we ate everything (and it was delicious!). The pancakes were a hit, even with my husband who does not really like pancakes. The won ton tacos, chicken pot pie, and baked spaghetti were all crowd pleasers. I would bring the tacos or spaghetti to the next potluck we go to. <div><br /></div><div>We did not have the company we anticipated, and instead got a lot of work done around here (done mostly by my husband). Nora and I went ahead and grocery shopped for the week after church, and while I went over budget by about $10, I also bought chicken and pork on sale that we will be able to use in weeks to come. We do have company this week, but I'm not sire for exactly how long. We'll just be flexible!</div><div><br /></div><div>So, here's the menu. As always, for more great ideas, check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>Monday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Chicken-Stroganoff/Detail.aspx">Chicken Stroganoff</a>, pasta, salad</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>(make honey mustard dressing and croutons)</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: Tuna Melts, grapes, carrots</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>(soak black beans)<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cuban-Black-Beans-I/Detail.aspx">Cuban Beans</a>, Pork Chops, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Mexican-Whole-Wheat-Flour-Tortillas/Detail.aspx">tortillas</a>, sauteed zucchini</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>(make tortillas)</div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday: Pizza, salad, <a href="http://www.bigoven.com/150468-Boston-Market-Cinnamon-Apples-recipe.html">Cinnamon Apples (a la Boston Market)</a></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>(make pizza dough, grate cheese, bake apples)</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday: Venison steaks, green beans, garlic bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday: Hot dogs, fixins', corn, macaroni and cheese</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday: Quesadillas, refried beans, peaches</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a great week! </div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-14859171140985952502008-08-20T08:35:00.002-04:002008-08-20T08:43:00.859-04:00Grocery ShoppingI did my grocery shopping yesterday for this week. On Monday, I reconciled our finances and took a look at how we are doing with our new budget. Well, on the plus side, we still have money in the grocery budget for the month. On the minus side, it's less than it should be. I know the reasons why - just need to have more discipline about quick trips (especially on the weekends!). I would like to stay on budget for the month still, so I've revised down the amount of money I want to spend the next two weeks. By approximately half. (!) I did pretty well yesterday - I spent a little more than half of what we have left in the budget for the month, but got some items I can definitely use next week. One other thing that would help would be to use more coupons - I don't get the paper or those packs of coupons (like ValPak), so I am at a bit of a loss as to where to get a bunch of coupons. For now, I'm entering in giveaways like this one at <a href="http://bargainhuntingwife.blogspot.com/2008/08/savings-spreads.html">Bargain Hunting Wife</a> - you can too!Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-56369670799092997872008-08-18T07:41:00.003-04:002008-08-18T07:59:34.759-04:00Menu Plan Monday<div><a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=mpm3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/mpm3.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div>Good morning! Some weeks it is so much easier to come up with a menu than other weeks. Last week we ate everything on the menu - woohoo! The Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff was excellent - a keeper for sure. We'll see how this week goes - we've got company in for the weekend - my husband's cousin, Ryan, and his girlfriend. His girlfriend is Buddhist, but I don't know if she has any dietary restrictions. We're just going to roll with the punches!<div><br /></div><div>Monday: Steamed shrimp, corn, salad, bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: Pintos and tortillas</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday: <a href="http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/254/Perkins_Restaurant_Pancakes47785.shtml">Pancakes</a>, eggs, bacon, fruit</div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Mini-Tacos/Detail.aspx">Won ton tacos,</a> refried pintos, salad</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Chicken-Pot-Pie-IX/Detail.aspx">Chicken pot pie</a>, salad</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday: </div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Basic-Baked-Spaghetti/Detail.aspx">Baked Spaghetti</a>, garlic bread, salad</div><div><br /></div><div>For more great menu ideas, head over to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">OrgJunkie</a>! have a great week!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-13551533111270812552008-08-11T14:53:00.003-04:002008-08-11T15:38:06.241-04:00CVS-ing (and grocery shop)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">I did </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">good</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">I got:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"> -2 pkgs of teensy-tiny diapers</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"> -2 pkgs of wipes</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"> -1 bottle of detangler</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">for 5.73. I saved 29.28 with a combination of sale pricing, mfr coupons, a CVS $4/$20 coupon, and a carefully hoarded stash of ECBs. And I got $5 ECBs and another $4/$20 for a future purchase. Whoo-hoo!!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">I also went to BiLo and procured this week's groceries. I was able to find everything except mirin, and I only forgot to get one item - tomatoes. I also got some household items that I had coupons for, and with 25 items in my cart, I got out of there for 50.45, saving 11.49 between sale pricing, coupons, and coupon doubling (up to $0.55!!)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">So I have 8.82 left for mirin, tomatoes, and whatever else. Yippee!</span></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-76648383586764161982008-08-11T10:53:00.003-04:002008-08-11T11:25:42.456-04:00Menu Plan Monday<div><a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=mpm3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/mpm3.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Wow, I am exhausted. Yesterday we went to Biltmore House from about 9am-5pm, then headed over a mountain to attend a wedding for a cousin. It was beautiful - I cried buckets! We didn't really </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">intend</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> to stay for the reception (the wedding started at 7pm!!), but not only did we stay, we helped clean up, too. Then we hopped in the car and drove 2 1/2 hours home. We got home a little after 1am. I was lucky - I got to sleep in till 7 - my poor husband had to leave for work at 5:50am. I think it's going to be a rough day for him. Rougher still for his parents - they left when we did to drive 8 hours, with work to attend to today. I don't want to go </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">anywhere</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> for a while. Anyhow, I got a late start on menu planning, but here it is. I have the car today, so grocery and CVS are calling. *sigh* Laura at <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">orgjunkie</a> has a bunch more menus (most of my inspiration today!) - go check it out!</span><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Monday: </span><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Chicken-Stroganoff/Detail.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> over noodles (whatever is in the pantry!), zucchini stirfry</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Tuesday: Pizza, salad</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Wednesday: Venison roast (slow cooker) with veggies, biscuits (frozen), green beans</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Thursday: Beans and Rice, </span><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Mexican-Whole-Wheat-Flour-Tortillas/Detail.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">tortillas</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> (holdover from last week), tomatoes, sour cream</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Friday: Venison <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Teriyaki-Sauce-and-Marinade/Detail.aspx">teriyaki</a> with mushrooms and broccoli, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Restaurant-Style-Egg-Drop-Soup/Detail.aspx">egg drop soup</a>, wontons</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Saturday: BLTs</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Sunday: Leftovers</span></li></ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I think we'll make cookies this week. Have a great week!</span></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-29984029762009410862008-08-06T15:32:00.005-04:002008-08-06T15:57:11.441-04:00CVS-ingNot quite as complicated this week. Nora was with me, so I'm pretty glad the ad wasn't as lucrative on multiple transactions (at least as far as I was interested.) This week, I got a bunch of stuff to donate for Operation Christmas Child - at church they mentioned that collections were starting. Kind of boring stuff - but necessary items.<div><br /></div><div><ul><li>3 Oral-B Advantage Toothbrushes 10.47 reg/7.47 on sale/4.50 ECBs<br /></li><li>3 CVS Toothbrushes 2.97<br /></li><li>1 CVS Toothbrush 1.99<br /></li><li>1 Colgate MaxFresh toothpaste 2.99/2 ECBs<br /></li><li>1 Colgate Total Advanced toothpaste 3.49 reg/2.99 on sale/2 ECBs<br /></li><li>2 Ivory Soap 3-pks 2.78/1 ECB<br /></li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Total 24.69 reg/21.19 on sale/9.50 ECB</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Coupons</span><br /></div><div><ul><li>$4/$20 <br /></li><li>.99/1 toothbrush<br /></li><li>1.00/3 toothbrushes<br /></li><li>5.79 ECBs (got these from the infant Advil deal for August) <br /></li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Total coupons 11.78</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">GRAND TOTAL 9.41 OOP, 9.50 ECBs earned</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Next week, I have big plans for those ECBs - time to start stocking up on baby necessities!!</div><div>Centsible Savings is giving away a $5 CVS Gift Certificate - <a href="http://www.centsiblesavings.com/2008/08/im-having-giveaway.html">check it out</a>!!</div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-995686818257800672008-08-04T07:30:00.003-04:002008-08-04T07:52:15.604-04:00Menu Plan Monday<div><a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=mpm3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/mpm3.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div>Good morning! After a short week of menu planning last week, I've got another short one! This weekend we are going to a wedding, and midweek, my in-laws are coming. Nora is over the moon! Without further ado, here goes:<div><br /></div><div>Monday: Spicy Basil Tofu, Cabbage and Carrot Stir-Fry, Rice</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Spinach-Quiche/Detail.aspx">Spinach/Feta Quiche</a>, Quick Bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday: Hot Dogs, Corn, Grilled Apples</div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday: Chicken something - I'm fixing for 3 additional adults - I'm going to have to think about this one.</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday: Beans & Rice, Tortillas, Fixings</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday-Sunday: Gone for Wedding!</div><div><br /></div><div>For more great menus, go see Laura at <a href="http://www.orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie</a>! Have a great week!</div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-5923321310501931692008-07-29T13:32:00.006-04:002008-08-06T15:48:48.435-04:00CVS-ingI've been doing a bit of research on how to play the CVS "game". Last week, I picked up a prescription and got a $4 off of a $20 purchase coupon. I checked out the ad, and was able to find a good sale on training pants (still!), and a few other things to total $21 and change, and got $7 in Extra Care Bucks (ECBs) to use on a future purchase. This week, I really planned it out - I went in by myself (thank you Toddler Time!!), selected a basket full of items, and then sorted it out into 4 transactions at the checkout counter. The cashier was incredibly patient, as I had picked a couple items that didn't follow my plan, and talked about how she liked to play the "game", too. So, here's todays purchases:<div><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Transaction #1</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><ul><li>Carefree Pantiliners / 13.78 / 9.00<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>/accumulating<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><br /></li><li>Neosporin / 5.49<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>/5.49 / accumulating<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><br /></li><li>Neo To Go / 6.49 / 5.50<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>/ accumulating<br /></li><li>$4/$20 coupon<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>-4.00<br /></li><li>$2.00 ECB<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span> -2.00<br /></li><li>$5.00 ECB<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span> -5.00<br /></li></ul></div><div>TOTAL / 25.76<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>/ 9.62<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Transaction #2</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Item<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Regular Price<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Sale Price<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">ECBs</span></span><br /></span></div><div><ul><li>J&J Bedtime Cream / 4.29 / 3.99 / 10 (combined with T#1 purchases)<br /></li></ul></div><div>TOTAL / 4.29 / 3.99 / 10<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Transaction #3</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Item<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Regular Price<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Sale Price<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">ECBs</span></div><div><ul><li>Starburst / 0.79 / 0.50 / accumulating<br /></li><li>Hershey's Nuggets /<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>3.49 / 2.50 / accumulating<br /></li><li>Kitkat 4 pack / 1.29<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>/ 1.00 / accumulating<br /></li><li>Trident 3 pack / 2.79 / 2.00 / accumulating<br /></li><li>M&M Premium / 4.99 / 4.00 / 5<br /></li><li>Old Spice Deodorant / 3.99 / 2.99 / 0<br /></li><li>$10 ECB<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>-10.00<br /></li></ul></div><div>TOTAL / 17.34 / 2.99 /5<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Transaction #4</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Item<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Regular Price<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Sale Price<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> / </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">ECBs</span><br /></div><div><ul><li>Scott Towels 8 pack / 9.99 / 4.99 / 0<br /></li><li>Bandaids / 3.29 / 2.99 / 2<br /></li><li>$5 ECB<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>-5.00<br /></li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></div><div>TOTAL / 13.28 / 2.98 / 2</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">GRAND TOTALS </span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Regular Price</span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Sale Price</span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">ECBs</span></span></div><div>TOTAL / 60.67 / 19.58 / 2<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>That seems like a pretty good deal to me. I stuck to buying only items that we'll actually use. I also got another $4/$20 coupon, which I will use next week. I definitely wasn't very smooth, but as I said, the cashier was very patient and nice. Even adding this to the rest of my grocery spending (for this two-week period) leaves me with $35 for items that come up, saving for future meat purchases, and next week's CVS-ing!</div></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4071301771656116326.post-59508872319741797122008-07-28T07:05:00.002-04:002008-07-28T07:26:51.052-04:00Menu Plan Monday<div><a href="http://s243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/?action=view&current=mpm3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff37/thompsonmarine/mpm3.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div>Another Monday, another menu plan!<div><div><br /></div><div>Last week went well - again a little out of order, but I tried a few new things that are keepers! The Stir-fried Chicken with Sweet Chili Sauce got rave reviews - it actually tasted a bit like takeout Szechuan Chicken - yum! The Two-Sauce Lasagna was also really good. I'm not a huge lasagna fan, but I really liked how this one turned out.</div><div><br /></div><div>This week (and next week) are short due to family things on the weekends - a reunion this weekend, and a wedding next weekend. Because of that, I planned for the 9 days we'd be here the next two weeks, and grocery shopped accordingly. We also have a cousin coming to stay a few days (starting today), so a few bigger meals are planned. I do have the menu split into two weeks, and here's this weeks:</div><div><br /></div><div>Monday: Crockpot Venison Roast, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Southern-Potato-Salad/Detail.aspx">Potato Salad</a>, Green Beans, Bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: Pizzas, Salad</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday: Shepherd's Pie (from the freezer), Bread</div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday: Beans on Toast & Eggs (or leftovers)</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday - Saturday: Family Reunion</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday: Leftovers (or Beans on Toast & Eggs)</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not really attempting too much homemade this week. It seems like it's going to be a very busy week. We did bake bread and make biscuits for the freezer on Saturday, and Nora and I will make cookies today, but that's it.</div><div><br /></div><div>For more great menu ideas, head on over to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie</a>. Thanks, Laura!</div></div>Amy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05715420527465207295noreply@blogger.com1