You know what is so great about coupons? Even when I don't have a lot of coupons, if I pay attention to costs and have stocked up on some stuff, then I am still just spending around $80 a week. My weekly budget when I started this was $120. I hit that the first week and one other week I spent $100. Other than those two weeks I have spent between $60 and $80. That comes out to around $200 savings each month! WOW!!
Here's what I did at Walgreen's today:
Transaction #1
Hair & Nail Supplement - $10
Carmex Lip Balm - $2
Breathe Right 10-pk - $4
Total OOP - $16.33
Register Rewards Earned - $16
Transaction #2
2 - Crayola 8-ct Markers - $3.99 (Because I forgot to buy markers for Natalie's school supplies)
1 - Crayola 20-ct Markers - $3.99 (Just to have new markers at home)
3 - Packing Tape w/ Mount - $2.50 (Because we really might be moving SOON!)
6 - Kraft Easy Mac Cups - 3/$1 (Yummy!)
1 - Walgreen's 24-pk Bottled Water - $3.99 (Because we're not environmentally friendly)
1 - Caramel - $.33 (Cause they can't pay me)
Wags Crayola - $1 off each
Wags Packing Tape - $1.51 off each
Wags Water - $1.50 off
Wags Easy Mac - $.60 off each
2 - Kraft Easy Mac - Buy 2, Get 1 Free - $1 off twice
Register Rewards from Trans #1 - $16
Total OOP - $.30
Total Walgreen's Savings - $36.63 or 68%
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Cheap Easy Mac Cups @ Walgreen's
If you like Kraft Easy Mac, then you should go to Walgreen's tomorrow. The back of their ad has a coupon for $.59 Easy Macs with a limit of 3. Go here to get a Buy 2, Get 1 Free coupon. You can keep playing the game until you get enough points for the Easy Mac coupon. The coupon will make the 3 cups $.39 each. That's less than half of the normal price at Wal-Mart (the cheapest place I have found them).
Walgreen's also has some items that are free after Register Rewards. Two of the ones that interest me are Carmex Lip Balm and Breathe Right Strips. I figure I'll buy each of those and then use the Register Rewards to get the Easy Mac cups, 24-pack of water for $2.49, packing tape for $.99 and some Crayola markers for $2.99.
What deals are you planning??
Walgreen's also has some items that are free after Register Rewards. Two of the ones that interest me are Carmex Lip Balm and Breathe Right Strips. I figure I'll buy each of those and then use the Register Rewards to get the Easy Mac cups, 24-pack of water for $2.49, packing tape for $.99 and some Crayola markers for $2.99.
What deals are you planning??
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Top Ten Worst Restaurant Salads
So, you're going out to eat and you've decided to "eat healthy". Are you gonna choose a salad? You may want to think twice about that. There are some good ones out there, but there are also a lot of really bad ones. Here's the top ten worst salads that we found and how long the average 150 pound person would have to walk to burn it off:
10. Jack in the Box - Chicken Club Salad w/ Crispy Chicken Strips and Bacon Ranch
Dressing - 770 calories
1 hour, 55 minutes of walking
9. Carino's - Pecan-Crusted Chicken Salad - 920 calories
2 hours, 15 minutes of walking
8. Zaxby's - Zensation Zalad w/ Blue Cheese Dressing - 1020 calories
2 hours, 25 minutes of walking
7. Chili's - Grilled BBQ Chicken Salad - 1050 calories
2 hours, 30 minutes of walking
6. Chili's - Boneless Buffalo Chicken Salad - 1110 calories
2 hours, 45 minutes of walking
5. Applebee's - Pecan-Crusted Chicken Salad - 1340 calories
3 hours, 15 minutes of walking
4. On the Border - Grande Taco Salad w/ Ground beef w/o dressing - 1380 calories
3 hours, 25 minutes of walking
3. Chili's - Quesadilla Explosion Salad - 1410 calories
3 hours, 30 minutes of walking
2. Outback - Queensland Salad w/ Mustard Viniagrette - 1410 calories
3 hours, 30 minutes of walking
1. Jason's Deli - Taco Salad with Chili w/o salsa - 1972 calories
A WHOPPING 4 hours, 50 minutes of walking
Do you still want that "healthy" salad??
10. Jack in the Box - Chicken Club Salad w/ Crispy Chicken Strips and Bacon Ranch
Dressing - 770 calories
1 hour, 55 minutes of walking
9. Carino's - Pecan-Crusted Chicken Salad - 920 calories
2 hours, 15 minutes of walking
8. Zaxby's - Zensation Zalad w/ Blue Cheese Dressing - 1020 calories
2 hours, 25 minutes of walking
7. Chili's - Grilled BBQ Chicken Salad - 1050 calories
2 hours, 30 minutes of walking
6. Chili's - Boneless Buffalo Chicken Salad - 1110 calories
2 hours, 45 minutes of walking
5. Applebee's - Pecan-Crusted Chicken Salad - 1340 calories
3 hours, 15 minutes of walking
4. On the Border - Grande Taco Salad w/ Ground beef w/o dressing - 1380 calories
3 hours, 25 minutes of walking
3. Chili's - Quesadilla Explosion Salad - 1410 calories
3 hours, 30 minutes of walking
2. Outback - Queensland Salad w/ Mustard Viniagrette - 1410 calories
3 hours, 30 minutes of walking
1. Jason's Deli - Taco Salad with Chili w/o salsa - 1972 calories
A WHOPPING 4 hours, 50 minutes of walking
Do you still want that "healthy" salad??
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
4 Healthy Things You Should Be Doing....But You Probably Aren't!
There are many key healthy things we could be doing but may not know how beneficial they really are. I want to make you aware of a few of these; anything you can do to make your journey to a more fit you, the better off you will be.
Run Sprints This activity is a must. To be fit and healthy you must incorporate healthy eating, cardio activities and some kind of resistance training. Running sprints has similar benefits to cardio and weights. It increases your metabolism for a long period of time, builds leg muscles, improves endurance and aids in weight loss. If an injury keeps you from running, then do sprints on a bike, elliptical or other piece of cardio equipment.
Stretching or Yoga Some men see yoga as a woman's activity. I have done it and know how extremely difficult it is. It takes strength, balance and flexibility to do many of the poses and activities. Stretching and/or yoga has many benefits including reducing muscle tension, blood circulation, range of motion in joints, better posture, stress relief and injury prevention.
Eating Breakfast Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Because of how busy we are in our country, when we get up to get ready for work or school, it is usually eating that takes a back seat. Breakfast is the fuel that gets the metabolism machine started. Other benefits include increased energy for morning tasks, keeps you from over-eating throughout the day and cuts your chances of heart disease and diabetes.
Drinking Water This is probably the most important of the four. Most of us drink other things besides water. Soft drinks, juices, sports drinks; we may even drink "healthy" drinks like milk. But, nothing should take the place of water. A normal-sized adult with any kind of activity level should drink between 70-90 ounces of water or four to five 16-ounce bottles. Let me give you just a few of the many health benefits:
1. Detoxifies your body
2. Reduces the risk of kidney stones
3. Lowers blood pressure and heart disease
4. Removes impurities in your skin
5. It's calorie free
6. Suppresses appetite
7. Protects joints
8. Protects our organs
I could go on and on. It seems like common sense, but it is not taken seriously enough. Drinking an above-normal amount of water is very important to your overall health and fitness levels.
There are other things that can be put on the list, but I would have to change the title. Seriously, add these four items to your healthy to-do list and it will benefit you right away.
Run Sprints This activity is a must. To be fit and healthy you must incorporate healthy eating, cardio activities and some kind of resistance training. Running sprints has similar benefits to cardio and weights. It increases your metabolism for a long period of time, builds leg muscles, improves endurance and aids in weight loss. If an injury keeps you from running, then do sprints on a bike, elliptical or other piece of cardio equipment.
Stretching or Yoga Some men see yoga as a woman's activity. I have done it and know how extremely difficult it is. It takes strength, balance and flexibility to do many of the poses and activities. Stretching and/or yoga has many benefits including reducing muscle tension, blood circulation, range of motion in joints, better posture, stress relief and injury prevention.
Eating Breakfast Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Because of how busy we are in our country, when we get up to get ready for work or school, it is usually eating that takes a back seat. Breakfast is the fuel that gets the metabolism machine started. Other benefits include increased energy for morning tasks, keeps you from over-eating throughout the day and cuts your chances of heart disease and diabetes.
Drinking Water This is probably the most important of the four. Most of us drink other things besides water. Soft drinks, juices, sports drinks; we may even drink "healthy" drinks like milk. But, nothing should take the place of water. A normal-sized adult with any kind of activity level should drink between 70-90 ounces of water or four to five 16-ounce bottles. Let me give you just a few of the many health benefits:
1. Detoxifies your body
2. Reduces the risk of kidney stones
3. Lowers blood pressure and heart disease
4. Removes impurities in your skin
5. It's calorie free
6. Suppresses appetite
7. Protects joints
8. Protects our organs
I could go on and on. It seems like common sense, but it is not taken seriously enough. Drinking an above-normal amount of water is very important to your overall health and fitness levels.
There are other things that can be put on the list, but I would have to change the title. Seriously, add these four items to your healthy to-do list and it will benefit you right away.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Sunday's Quick Trip
Whew! I am SO glad that school has started again! But, the weekend of celebrating Natalie's birthday and getting ready for school to start left me having to shop as quick as I could. I left the house at 7:05 Sunday evening, went to CVS, Kroger and Walgreen's, and was home by 7:55 to put the kids to bed.
I had a great plan for CVS, but really didn't expect it all to work out that well. It didn't work out at all like I planned (they were out of a few items) but I still feel like it was a pretty good outcome. Earlier in the week I used my $7.99 ECBs because I was almost out of mascara. I got 2 things of mascara and ended up with $5 in ECBs to start this week. I am almost out of deodorant and we only had 1 Aleve tablet left so it worked out well. Here's what I did this week:
2 Mitchum for Women deodorant - $2.50 each
1 100-ct Aleve - $7.99
Mitchum $1 (expired 8/22)
Mitchum - 8/22 SmartSource - $.75
Aleve - Coupons.com - $2
ECBs from last week - $5
Total OOP - $4.24
ECBs earned - $1
Kroger was just where I went to get groceries this week because I had to be quick. I remembered why I have been shopping at the Kroger on the Loop! Wow, it was packed and I couldn't find things! Ughh!! I eventually found everything I needed except for almonds for Chris, but I remembered that those were on sale at Walgreen's this week. Soooo, I ran to Walgreen's and got a can on almonds for $1. They were on sale for $2 and I used a $1 off from 8/22 Smartsource.
Did you find any great deals this week?
I had a great plan for CVS, but really didn't expect it all to work out that well. It didn't work out at all like I planned (they were out of a few items) but I still feel like it was a pretty good outcome. Earlier in the week I used my $7.99 ECBs because I was almost out of mascara. I got 2 things of mascara and ended up with $5 in ECBs to start this week. I am almost out of deodorant and we only had 1 Aleve tablet left so it worked out well. Here's what I did this week:
2 Mitchum for Women deodorant - $2.50 each
1 100-ct Aleve - $7.99
Mitchum $1 (expired 8/22)
Mitchum - 8/22 SmartSource - $.75
Aleve - Coupons.com - $2
ECBs from last week - $5
Total OOP - $4.24
ECBs earned - $1
Kroger was just where I went to get groceries this week because I had to be quick. I remembered why I have been shopping at the Kroger on the Loop! Wow, it was packed and I couldn't find things! Ughh!! I eventually found everything I needed except for almonds for Chris, but I remembered that those were on sale at Walgreen's this week. Soooo, I ran to Walgreen's and got a can on almonds for $1. They were on sale for $2 and I used a $1 off from 8/22 Smartsource.
Did you find any great deals this week?
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Top Ten Reasons We LOVE Football Season
10. The BCS debate can begin again
9. Makes the fall semester go fast
8. Aikman & Buck
7. Men across the country are allowed out of the house on Monday nights
6. It's a week-long event - it seems like there is a game on every night
5. College GameDay
4. Cooler weather is coming
3. Something worth watching on Saturdays
2. Two teams you don't care about makes for the best background noise for a
Sunday afternoon nap
1. Ryan Raiders, Southside Rebels, Arkansas Razorbacks, North Texas Eagles
and Dallas Cowboys
9. Makes the fall semester go fast
8. Aikman & Buck
7. Men across the country are allowed out of the house on Monday nights
6. It's a week-long event - it seems like there is a game on every night
5. College GameDay
4. Cooler weather is coming
3. Something worth watching on Saturdays
2. Two teams you don't care about makes for the best background noise for a
Sunday afternoon nap
1. Ryan Raiders, Southside Rebels, Arkansas Razorbacks, North Texas Eagles
and Dallas Cowboys
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Fitness Mistakes to Avoid
We see many people start an exercise program, but if they don't see results or if they get hurt they just quit. If "rookie" mistakes are avoided then results will be seen and chances of injuries can be reduced. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them.
1. Hold On for Dear Life
If you have ever seen Jillian on the show Biggest Loser, you know she screams at the contestants for holding handles of cardio equipment. Holding on allows you to "cheat". If you need to hang on then you may be going too fast. Slow down so that you will feel comfortable being able to use your arms and not fall off the treadmill (or whatever you are on).
2. Heavy Hands
Walking with hand weights is very unnecessary and can actually cause injury. In fact, walking with hand weights causes you to compromise your stride. The added weight causes you to lean slightly forward which, in turn can put undue stress on your ankles, quads and shins. The result can be stress fractures which will sabotage all your hard work.
3. One Trick Ponies
Many beginners, especially women, think they will be fine if all they do is walk every morning. Yes, walking is a great way to get in some cardio every day. However, you are only helping one area of your overall fitness. You must do some weight-bearing exercises two to three days a week. We start losing muscle at age 30. Strength training builds lean muscle, which increases metabolism, burns more calories and strengthens bones.
4. Blah, Blah, Blah....
Many beginners quit what should be a lifetime love of fitness because they get bored of their routine. Don't get stuck in a rut and definitely don't do things you absolutely hate. I saw something in a book call it a "play"-out instead of a work-out. I love running. I love what it does to my body. I love how I feel when I'm done. I really loved the sense of accomplishment after I ran a half-marathon. Aimee hates running; she shouldn't do it. Whatever you do have fun! You will then do it forever.
5. Drinking Your Calories
Unless you are a high level athlete like Michael Phelps, drinking sports drinks are unnecessary and can actually cause you to gain weight. The rest of us just need good ol' out-of-the-tap H2O. On that note, make sure you are getting enough of the "good stuff". Muscles need water to contract and work properly. If you don't drink enough, you can actually get muscle spasms, tears or aches. You should drink before, during and after your exercise. Also, to keep from dehydrating you should be drinking water throughout the entire day.
If you believe you are not doing something correctly then ask us or look it up. There is no dumb question when it comes to your health!
1. Hold On for Dear Life
If you have ever seen Jillian on the show Biggest Loser, you know she screams at the contestants for holding handles of cardio equipment. Holding on allows you to "cheat". If you need to hang on then you may be going too fast. Slow down so that you will feel comfortable being able to use your arms and not fall off the treadmill (or whatever you are on).
2. Heavy Hands
Walking with hand weights is very unnecessary and can actually cause injury. In fact, walking with hand weights causes you to compromise your stride. The added weight causes you to lean slightly forward which, in turn can put undue stress on your ankles, quads and shins. The result can be stress fractures which will sabotage all your hard work.
3. One Trick Ponies
Many beginners, especially women, think they will be fine if all they do is walk every morning. Yes, walking is a great way to get in some cardio every day. However, you are only helping one area of your overall fitness. You must do some weight-bearing exercises two to three days a week. We start losing muscle at age 30. Strength training builds lean muscle, which increases metabolism, burns more calories and strengthens bones.
4. Blah, Blah, Blah....
Many beginners quit what should be a lifetime love of fitness because they get bored of their routine. Don't get stuck in a rut and definitely don't do things you absolutely hate. I saw something in a book call it a "play"-out instead of a work-out. I love running. I love what it does to my body. I love how I feel when I'm done. I really loved the sense of accomplishment after I ran a half-marathon. Aimee hates running; she shouldn't do it. Whatever you do have fun! You will then do it forever.
5. Drinking Your Calories
Unless you are a high level athlete like Michael Phelps, drinking sports drinks are unnecessary and can actually cause you to gain weight. The rest of us just need good ol' out-of-the-tap H2O. On that note, make sure you are getting enough of the "good stuff". Muscles need water to contract and work properly. If you don't drink enough, you can actually get muscle spasms, tears or aches. You should drink before, during and after your exercise. Also, to keep from dehydrating you should be drinking water throughout the entire day.
If you believe you are not doing something correctly then ask us or look it up. There is no dumb question when it comes to your health!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
CVS Paid Me...
Wow! CVS and Kroger were great today! Somehow Natalie has managed to spread her birthday out this week from Wednesday to Sunday, so we didn't need a whole lot of groceries. But, I was able to get several free or really cheap snacks, so we are stocked up for at least a couple of weeks.
Here's what I did at CVS:
Blink Eyedrops - $7.99
2x Right Guard Deodorant - $4.49 each
4x SoBe Lifewater - $1.59 each
Blink - RP 8/15 - $1
CVS Right Guard B1G1 - $4.49
Right Guard - RP 7/25 - B1G1
CVS SoBe B1G1 - $1.59 x2
Sobe.com B1G1 - $1.59 x2
ECBs from last week - $5.00
Total OOP - $1.99
ECBs earned - $7.99
So, for $5 in ECBs and $1.99 cash, I came out of there with $7.99 ECBs, plus 7 products. Call me crazy, but I'm pretty sure I came out ahead here!! :)
At Kroger I spent $25 and saved $43! The first price is the sale price and then the price in parentheses is what I actually paid. Here's part of what I did using their Buy 8 participating products, Get $4 Off instantly:
Pillsbury Sweet Moments Dessert - $2.49 (Free)
GM 8/8 - $1
Cellfire - $1
B8G4 Off - $.50
2x Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls - $1.69 each ($.19 each)
2x Online Promotion Coupon - $.50 each doubled to $1.00 each
B8G4 Off - $.50 each
2x Hot Pockets Side Shots - $1.99 each ($.49 each)
2x Like Hot Pockets on Facebook - $1.00 each
B8G4 Off - $.50 each
SoBe Lifewater - $1.00 ($.50)
B8G4 Off - $.50
Caramel Bugles - $1.49 (Free)
GM 8/8 - $.50 doubled to $1.00
B8G4 Off - $.50
Chex Mix - $1.49 (made $.50)
Smartsource.com - $.50 doubled to $1.00
Cellfire - $.50
B8G4 Off - $.50
Here's another 8 item example that I did:
4x Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks - $1.99 each ($1.00 each)
2x GM 8/8 - $.50 off 2 doubled to $1.00
B8G4 Off - $.50 each
Betty Crocker Warm Delights - $1.99 (made $.25)
Smartsource.com - $.50 doubled to $1.00
Kroger eCoupons - $.75
B8G4 Off - $.50
Welch's Squeeze Grape Jelly - $1.99 ($1.49)
B8G4 Off - $.50
Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers - $1.88 each ($1.38 each)
B8G4 Off - $.50 each
Did YOU get any good deals this week??
Here's what I did at CVS:
Blink Eyedrops - $7.99
2x Right Guard Deodorant - $4.49 each
4x SoBe Lifewater - $1.59 each
Blink - RP 8/15 - $1
CVS Right Guard B1G1 - $4.49
Right Guard - RP 7/25 - B1G1
CVS SoBe B1G1 - $1.59 x2
Sobe.com B1G1 - $1.59 x2
ECBs from last week - $5.00
Total OOP - $1.99
ECBs earned - $7.99
So, for $5 in ECBs and $1.99 cash, I came out of there with $7.99 ECBs, plus 7 products. Call me crazy, but I'm pretty sure I came out ahead here!! :)
At Kroger I spent $25 and saved $43! The first price is the sale price and then the price in parentheses is what I actually paid. Here's part of what I did using their Buy 8 participating products, Get $4 Off instantly:
Pillsbury Sweet Moments Dessert - $2.49 (Free)
GM 8/8 - $1
Cellfire - $1
B8G4 Off - $.50
2x Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls - $1.69 each ($.19 each)
2x Online Promotion Coupon - $.50 each doubled to $1.00 each
B8G4 Off - $.50 each
2x Hot Pockets Side Shots - $1.99 each ($.49 each)
2x Like Hot Pockets on Facebook - $1.00 each
B8G4 Off - $.50 each
SoBe Lifewater - $1.00 ($.50)
B8G4 Off - $.50
Caramel Bugles - $1.49 (Free)
GM 8/8 - $.50 doubled to $1.00
B8G4 Off - $.50
Chex Mix - $1.49 (made $.50)
Smartsource.com - $.50 doubled to $1.00
Cellfire - $.50
B8G4 Off - $.50
Here's another 8 item example that I did:
4x Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks - $1.99 each ($1.00 each)
2x GM 8/8 - $.50 off 2 doubled to $1.00
B8G4 Off - $.50 each
Betty Crocker Warm Delights - $1.99 (made $.25)
Smartsource.com - $.50 doubled to $1.00
Kroger eCoupons - $.75
B8G4 Off - $.50
Welch's Squeeze Grape Jelly - $1.99 ($1.49)
B8G4 Off - $.50
Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers - $1.88 each ($1.38 each)
B8G4 Off - $.50 each
Did YOU get any good deals this week??
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Sunday's Deals - 8/15
Wow! Lots of free stuff this week if the stores are well-stocked! Here's a few deals for each store:
Kroger
Pillsbury Sweet Moments Refrigerated Desserts - $2.49
General Mills 8/8 - $1.00/1
Cellfire - $1.00/1
Buy 8 mix & match participating products, Get $4 Off Deal - $.50
Total OOP - FREE
Caramel Bugles - $1.49
General Mills 8/8 - $.50/1
Buy 8, Get $4 Off - $.50
Total OOP - FREE
Revlon Emery Boards, 10ct - $.94
Smartsource 8/15 - $1.00/1
Total OOP - FREE
CVS
Blink Tears Eye Drops - $7.99
Printable Coupon - $1.50/1 (CVS on University does not always accept printables, not sure about Teasley)
Total OOP - $6.49 (or $7.99 with no coupon)
ECBs Earned - $7.99
2 Right Guard or Dry Idea - Buy 1, Get 1 FREE
Red Plum 7/25 - B1G1
Total OOP - FREE for both
Glide Pro-Health Floss - $3.49
Proctor & Gamble 8/1 - $1.00/1
Total OOP - $2.49
ECBs earned - $2.50
Walgreen's
2 Right Guard or Dry Idea - Buy 1, Get 1 FREE
Red Plum 7/25 - B1G1
Total OOP - FREE for both
1 Stride Gum & 1 Stride Shift Gum
Smartsource 5/16 - Buy 1 Stride Gum, Get 1 Stride Shift Gum
Walgreen's Weekly Ad - B1G1 Stride Gum
Total OOP - FREE for both
3 M&Ms - $.49 each (make sure sizes match coupon)
Red Plum 7/25 - $1 off 3
Total OOP - $.47
Kroger
Pillsbury Sweet Moments Refrigerated Desserts - $2.49
General Mills 8/8 - $1.00/1
Cellfire - $1.00/1
Buy 8 mix & match participating products, Get $4 Off Deal - $.50
Total OOP - FREE
Caramel Bugles - $1.49
General Mills 8/8 - $.50/1
Buy 8, Get $4 Off - $.50
Total OOP - FREE
Revlon Emery Boards, 10ct - $.94
Smartsource 8/15 - $1.00/1
Total OOP - FREE
CVS
Blink Tears Eye Drops - $7.99
Printable Coupon - $1.50/1 (CVS on University does not always accept printables, not sure about Teasley)
Total OOP - $6.49 (or $7.99 with no coupon)
ECBs Earned - $7.99
2 Right Guard or Dry Idea - Buy 1, Get 1 FREE
Red Plum 7/25 - B1G1
Total OOP - FREE for both
Glide Pro-Health Floss - $3.49
Proctor & Gamble 8/1 - $1.00/1
Total OOP - $2.49
ECBs earned - $2.50
Walgreen's
2 Right Guard or Dry Idea - Buy 1, Get 1 FREE
Red Plum 7/25 - B1G1
Total OOP - FREE for both
1 Stride Gum & 1 Stride Shift Gum
Smartsource 5/16 - Buy 1 Stride Gum, Get 1 Stride Shift Gum
Walgreen's Weekly Ad - B1G1 Stride Gum
Total OOP - FREE for both
3 M&Ms - $.49 each (make sure sizes match coupon)
Red Plum 7/25 - $1 off 3
Total OOP - $.47
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Top Ten Reasons to Count Calories
10. Pen to Paper...All you need is a pen and paper or an iPhone app.
9. Technology Rules...Free online databases make it easy to find all kinds of foods,
even from restaurants.
8. KISS...Keeps It Simple, Stupid.
7. Results Don't Vary...If you do it consistently you WILL see results.
6. 100 + 100 = 200...If you're going to count something (i.e., points) you may as well
count calories. It's less math, just with bigger numbers.
5. Self-Control...It helps create a positive form of discipline in your life.
4. The Tortoise Wins...It's not a fad diet; it's the correct way to lose weight - slow
and steady.
3. Excessive or Lacking...It helps you realize how much is too much AND how much
is not enough.
2. Eat What You Want...You don't have to deprive yourself of your favorite foods.
1. MetaCheck...Blatant advertising coming! It's easy to personalize to YOUR body. All
you need to do is take our metabolism test. Contact us or look on our home page for
more information.
9. Technology Rules...Free online databases make it easy to find all kinds of foods,
even from restaurants.
8. KISS...Keeps It Simple, Stupid.
7. Results Don't Vary...If you do it consistently you WILL see results.
6. 100 + 100 = 200...If you're going to count something (i.e., points) you may as well
count calories. It's less math, just with bigger numbers.
5. Self-Control...It helps create a positive form of discipline in your life.
4. The Tortoise Wins...It's not a fad diet; it's the correct way to lose weight - slow
and steady.
3. Excessive or Lacking...It helps you realize how much is too much AND how much
is not enough.
2. Eat What You Want...You don't have to deprive yourself of your favorite foods.
1. MetaCheck...Blatant advertising coming! It's easy to personalize to YOUR body. All
you need to do is take our metabolism test. Contact us or look on our home page for
more information.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
So You Wanna Be A Runner?
It is my belief that almost anyone can become a "runner". My goals when I began the transformation to a "runner" a year and a half ago were to lose weight and be able to run in a few races.
Let's take a look at how and why you too should get into running.
1. Running is a Great Way to Lose Weight
If you walk a mile you can burn about 70 calories; run a mile and you can burn about 100.
While these numbers vary depending on your weight and age, it's obvious you'll lose
faster by running. One reason running burns so many calories is because of the amount
of large muscles being used. By using these large muscles, you'll burn calories when at
rest while your muscles recover. Lastly, running gives you more energy to be able to
accomplish more in all areas of your life.
2. Anyone Can Run a 5K!
Why running a 5K is so great:
- Feeling of accomplishment when you cross the finish
- Meeting other runners
- Great way to raise money for a cause
- You usually get a pretty good t-shirt
Hints for running your first 5k...
- Don't run every day. If you try to go every day there's a greater chance of fatigue or
injury. Start with 20 minutes 3-4 times a week. As your endurance level increases,
you can up the time and/or mileage.
- Don't worry about pace or time. Once you've run a few 5K races you can start going
for a personal record. Until then try to make running straight for 30 minutes your first
goal. Be happy about any time for your first race. Passing the finish line is the best
part.
- Invest in some good shoes. Your feet are the most important parts of your running
effort. Take care of them. Don't go to a store where you can buy groceries to get your
first pair of running shoes. It is worth the money to get the only equipment you'll really
need. I suggest a specialty running store like Fleet Feet or Run-On, where trained
runners show you what kind of running shoe will fit your feet.
Example of an 8-week training program for your first 5k:
Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun
Week 1 Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run 20-30 min jog
Week 2 Rest 1.75 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 1.75 mi run 20-30 min jog
Week 3 Rest 2 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 2 mi run 20-30 min jog
Week 4 Rest 2.25 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 2.25 mi run 25-35 min jog
Week 5 Rest 2.5 mi run Rest 2 mi run Rest 2.5 mi run 25-35 min jog
Week 6 Rest 2.75 mi run Rest 2 mi run Rest 2.75 mi run 35-45 min jog
Week 7 Rest 3 mi run Rest 2 mi run Rest 3 mi run 40 min jog
Week 8 Rest 3 mi run Rest 2 mi run Rest Rest 5K Race!
When's your first race??
Let's take a look at how and why you too should get into running.
1. Running is a Great Way to Lose Weight
If you walk a mile you can burn about 70 calories; run a mile and you can burn about 100.
While these numbers vary depending on your weight and age, it's obvious you'll lose
faster by running. One reason running burns so many calories is because of the amount
of large muscles being used. By using these large muscles, you'll burn calories when at
rest while your muscles recover. Lastly, running gives you more energy to be able to
accomplish more in all areas of your life.
2. Anyone Can Run a 5K!
Why running a 5K is so great:
- Feeling of accomplishment when you cross the finish
- Meeting other runners
- Great way to raise money for a cause
- You usually get a pretty good t-shirt
Hints for running your first 5k...
- Don't run every day. If you try to go every day there's a greater chance of fatigue or
injury. Start with 20 minutes 3-4 times a week. As your endurance level increases,
you can up the time and/or mileage.
- Don't worry about pace or time. Once you've run a few 5K races you can start going
for a personal record. Until then try to make running straight for 30 minutes your first
goal. Be happy about any time for your first race. Passing the finish line is the best
part.
- Invest in some good shoes. Your feet are the most important parts of your running
effort. Take care of them. Don't go to a store where you can buy groceries to get your
first pair of running shoes. It is worth the money to get the only equipment you'll really
need. I suggest a specialty running store like Fleet Feet or Run-On, where trained
runners show you what kind of running shoe will fit your feet.
Example of an 8-week training program for your first 5k:
Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun
Week 1 Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run 20-30 min jog
Week 2 Rest 1.75 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 1.75 mi run 20-30 min jog
Week 3 Rest 2 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 2 mi run 20-30 min jog
Week 4 Rest 2.25 mi run Rest 1.5 mi run Rest 2.25 mi run 25-35 min jog
Week 5 Rest 2.5 mi run Rest 2 mi run Rest 2.5 mi run 25-35 min jog
Week 6 Rest 2.75 mi run Rest 2 mi run Rest 2.75 mi run 35-45 min jog
Week 7 Rest 3 mi run Rest 2 mi run Rest 3 mi run 40 min jog
Week 8 Rest 3 mi run Rest 2 mi run Rest Rest 5K Race!
When's your first race??
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Expensive Week, But Under Budget
Ughh! What a frustrating shopping night! It took me 2-1/2 hours and I did pretty good, but I know I could have done it better and faster and that annoys me. Oh well, at least I stayed under budget.
My first stop was to CVS where they had nothing I was looking for so I drove to the other CVS where I found almost everything. I did my math wrong though and spent $4 instead of $2. Good thing is that I saved $45!!
I went to Wal-Mart next and spent almost $100, but finished off the school supply list (after searching, searching and more searching) and got about a 3-week supply of chips, corn dogs and waffles. I meant to look for a coupon at Wal-Mart to use at Walgreen's, but I was so involved in searching for school supplies that I forgot. So, that got me off to a slow start at Walgreen's. I spent $9.65 and only saved $9.58.
To top the night off, I went to Kroger to get gas and for the first time in a long time I did not get the $.10 off per gallon. At least it was still cheaper than across the street.
Even though I could have done better, I was still successful at CVS, so here's what I did:
Transaction #1
Dulcolax Balance - $9.99
Dulcolax SS 5/16 - $4
ECBs from last week - $5
OOP - $.99
ECBs earned - $9.99
Transaction #2
Lysol Hands Free Starter Kit - $9.99
2 - Betty Crocker Warm Delights (B1G1) - $2.29
Softsoap - $.99
2 - Composition Notebooks - $.66 each (only $.20 at Walgreen's, another mistake I made)
2 - Kotex - $2.50 each
Lysol SS 7/11 - $3 (in my head this was for $5, that's why I spent an extra $2)
2 - Warm Delights SS 6/27 and GM 8/8 - $.75 each
Softsoap SS 7/25 - $.35
Kotex SS 8/8 - $2
ECBs from Trans #1 - $9.99
OOP - $3.06
ECBs earned - $5
How did you do this week??
My first stop was to CVS where they had nothing I was looking for so I drove to the other CVS where I found almost everything. I did my math wrong though and spent $4 instead of $2. Good thing is that I saved $45!!
I went to Wal-Mart next and spent almost $100, but finished off the school supply list (after searching, searching and more searching) and got about a 3-week supply of chips, corn dogs and waffles. I meant to look for a coupon at Wal-Mart to use at Walgreen's, but I was so involved in searching for school supplies that I forgot. So, that got me off to a slow start at Walgreen's. I spent $9.65 and only saved $9.58.
To top the night off, I went to Kroger to get gas and for the first time in a long time I did not get the $.10 off per gallon. At least it was still cheaper than across the street.
Even though I could have done better, I was still successful at CVS, so here's what I did:
Transaction #1
Dulcolax Balance - $9.99
Dulcolax SS 5/16 - $4
ECBs from last week - $5
OOP - $.99
ECBs earned - $9.99
Transaction #2
Lysol Hands Free Starter Kit - $9.99
2 - Betty Crocker Warm Delights (B1G1) - $2.29
Softsoap - $.99
2 - Composition Notebooks - $.66 each (only $.20 at Walgreen's, another mistake I made)
2 - Kotex - $2.50 each
Lysol SS 7/11 - $3 (in my head this was for $5, that's why I spent an extra $2)
2 - Warm Delights SS 6/27 and GM 8/8 - $.75 each
Softsoap SS 7/25 - $.35
Kotex SS 8/8 - $2
ECBs from Trans #1 - $9.99
OOP - $3.06
ECBs earned - $5
How did you do this week??
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Top Ten Disney Planning Tips
We love going to Disney World! Here's our top ten tips when planning your own trip to Disney:
10. It WILL Rain...Especially in the summer months, using a poncho will make you more sweaty than wet. There are always buildings to duck into. We dress accordingly and welcome the cooler temperatures and chance to cool off.
9. Extra Magic Hours...Take full advantage of the time to be in the park with fewer people. But, also realize that when the park opens to regular guests it will be more crowded. That is why we suggest....
8. Park Hopper Passes...This way you can hit a few rides or attractions in the Morning Extra Magic Hours and then move on to a different park that will be less crowded. It is definitely worth the money to be able to move around; just keep in mind the travel time between parks.
7. Stay on Disney Property...There are many advantages including Extra Magic Hours, Disney transportation from park to park and Disney transportation to and from the airport. Plus, the MAGIC!
6. Don't Expect to See Everything...Disney Parks are ginormous!! It would take way more than a week to see and do everything. Don't even try!! It's ok to take breaks in the middle of the day to go swim or hang out at the hotel. Have each family member make a list of their "have-to-do" attractions; do those and try to add in what you can.
5. FASTPASS...For Disney's most popular attractions you can use their complimentary FASTPASS system. This allows you to reserve a time to come back to the attraction and not have to wait in a long line. On our last trip to Disney World during Peak Season our longest wait was 45 minutes and that was in an air-conditioned building to see the Fairies. Figure out the FASTPASS system before you go and use it to your advantage.
4. Dining Reservations...Especially if you want Character Dining experiences, be prepared to make your dining reservations 180 days before you arrive.
3. Budget...Know your budget before you even make your reservations. Disney World's hotels are set up in different budget categories. Decide on a category and then pick a hotel. You can also find menus with prices to just about every Disney restaurant on allears.net. There should be no "sticker-shock" if you....
2. Research and Plan...There are lots of resources online or at your local bookstore. Use them!! We plan which parks we are going to every morning and evening. The main thing for us is making sure that we see all of the nighttime entertainment at each park. Even within each park you should have an idea of what order you plan to do the attractions in. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't, but with a plan you will be able to enjoy more attractions in less time.
1. HAVE FUN!...Leave the attitude and stress at home! You will all be overstimulated and at least one of you will have a meltdown while you are at Disney World. Let it pass and move on to more fun. Don't sweat the small stuff! If you are going with kids, it may not be a relaxing vacation, but it should never be a stressful vacation.
HAVE A MAGICAL VACATION!!
10. It WILL Rain...Especially in the summer months, using a poncho will make you more sweaty than wet. There are always buildings to duck into. We dress accordingly and welcome the cooler temperatures and chance to cool off.
9. Extra Magic Hours...Take full advantage of the time to be in the park with fewer people. But, also realize that when the park opens to regular guests it will be more crowded. That is why we suggest....
8. Park Hopper Passes...This way you can hit a few rides or attractions in the Morning Extra Magic Hours and then move on to a different park that will be less crowded. It is definitely worth the money to be able to move around; just keep in mind the travel time between parks.
7. Stay on Disney Property...There are many advantages including Extra Magic Hours, Disney transportation from park to park and Disney transportation to and from the airport. Plus, the MAGIC!
6. Don't Expect to See Everything...Disney Parks are ginormous!! It would take way more than a week to see and do everything. Don't even try!! It's ok to take breaks in the middle of the day to go swim or hang out at the hotel. Have each family member make a list of their "have-to-do" attractions; do those and try to add in what you can.
5. FASTPASS...For Disney's most popular attractions you can use their complimentary FASTPASS system. This allows you to reserve a time to come back to the attraction and not have to wait in a long line. On our last trip to Disney World during Peak Season our longest wait was 45 minutes and that was in an air-conditioned building to see the Fairies. Figure out the FASTPASS system before you go and use it to your advantage.
4. Dining Reservations...Especially if you want Character Dining experiences, be prepared to make your dining reservations 180 days before you arrive.
3. Budget...Know your budget before you even make your reservations. Disney World's hotels are set up in different budget categories. Decide on a category and then pick a hotel. You can also find menus with prices to just about every Disney restaurant on allears.net. There should be no "sticker-shock" if you....
2. Research and Plan...There are lots of resources online or at your local bookstore. Use them!! We plan which parks we are going to every morning and evening. The main thing for us is making sure that we see all of the nighttime entertainment at each park. Even within each park you should have an idea of what order you plan to do the attractions in. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't, but with a plan you will be able to enjoy more attractions in less time.
1. HAVE FUN!...Leave the attitude and stress at home! You will all be overstimulated and at least one of you will have a meltdown while you are at Disney World. Let it pass and move on to more fun. Don't sweat the small stuff! If you are going with kids, it may not be a relaxing vacation, but it should never be a stressful vacation.
HAVE A MAGICAL VACATION!!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Movie Review: "Inception"
One word comes to mind when I think back to the 2-1/2 hours I spent watching Inception. CRAZY!! My "conscience" was tossed and turned for the entire 148 minutes. The whole time I thought of what my dreams would look like if I could put them on the big screen. Evidently it took writer/director Christopher Nolan (Dark Knight
) ten years to complete this project pen-to-projector. I can only imagine how many versions of this script probably went through his imagination at any one time.
What Nolan was able to accomplish was the ultimate in cinematic eye-candy. We had some of the best visuals ever seen from start to finish. My absolute favorite was the bending of the city on top of itself. I wanted to hit rewind on my DVR remote. Guess I'll wait a few weeks for the Blu-Ray.
As far as acting goes, it was a distant second for a movie of this magnitude. But, I thought Leonardo DiCaprio was his normal Oscar-worthy self. Everyone else I could have done without. Joseph Gordon-Levitt (3rd Rock from the Sun) and Ellen Page (Juno) were OK, but certainly they could have come up with two that were a better fit. French actress Marion Cotillard was very good as Cobb's (DiCaprio) wife, Mal. I kept wanting her to get out of the way, and was somewhat frightened of her in a "I see dead people..." kind of way.
Overall, I was extremely satisfied with the time I spent watching Inception. After Dark Knightand this follow-up, I am very excited to see what Christopher Nolan can come up with next.
Bring on the Blu-Ray!!! I want extras!
) ten years to complete this project pen-to-projector. I can only imagine how many versions of this script probably went through his imagination at any one time.What Nolan was able to accomplish was the ultimate in cinematic eye-candy. We had some of the best visuals ever seen from start to finish. My absolute favorite was the bending of the city on top of itself. I wanted to hit rewind on my DVR remote. Guess I'll wait a few weeks for the Blu-Ray.
As far as acting goes, it was a distant second for a movie of this magnitude. But, I thought Leonardo DiCaprio was his normal Oscar-worthy self. Everyone else I could have done without. Joseph Gordon-Levitt (3rd Rock from the Sun) and Ellen Page (Juno) were OK, but certainly they could have come up with two that were a better fit. French actress Marion Cotillard was very good as Cobb's (DiCaprio) wife, Mal. I kept wanting her to get out of the way, and was somewhat frightened of her in a "I see dead people..." kind of way.
Overall, I was extremely satisfied with the time I spent watching Inception. After Dark Knight
and this follow-up, I am very excited to see what Christopher Nolan can come up with next.Bring on the Blu-Ray!!! I want extras!
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Four Good Stores This Week
I went into this week hoping for the best, but not really expecting much to work. The only store that was out of stuff was Kroger with the $4 off instantly promotion. My first stop was CVS:
Transaction #1
3 20-ct boxes of Toy Story Band Aids - $3.59 each
M&Ms - $.50
ECBs from last week's photo book - $7.99
Band Aid 8/1 Smartsource - $3 off 3
Total OOP - $.28
ECBs earned - $5
Transaction #2
Gillette Fusion Power Razor - $9.79
ECBs from Trans #1 - $5
Gillette Fusion 8/1 Proctor & Gamble - $4
Total OOP - $.86
ECBs earned - $5
Not only did I get all of that stuff for just $1.14 out of pocket, but I can send in the proofs of purchase from the Band Aids to receive a free Toy Story 3 book! My next stop was Walgreen's. I messed up there by missing a $3 off coupon, but I still think I did great:
Transaction #1
Alive! Multivitamins 50ct - $10
Total OOP - $10
Register Rewards earned - $10
Transaction #2
Bayer Aspirin AM 50ct (this is the Walgreen's $3 off that I missed)
Dawn Dish Detergent
Visine
2x Highlighter 6pk
Erasers cap 15pk
2x Erasers big pink 2pk
Pointed Scissors
Crayola Crayons 24pk
Wooden Ruler
Plastic School Box
Filler Paper 280shts
2x Spiral Notebook 70shts
2x 2-Pocket Folder with Prongs
Bayer AM 8/1 RedPlum - $2
Bayer AM Walgreen's August Book - $3 (the one I missed)
Dawn 8/1 Proctor & Gamble - $.25
Visine 6/13 RedPlum - $1
Visine Walgreen's August Book - $2
Register Rewards from Transaction #1 - $10
Total OOP - $.75
So, while I got a lot of great stuff, I could have used another $2.25 if I had been paying closer attention. Oh well! My next stop was Kroger where I wanted to do one transaction of the Proctor & Gamble $4 off instantly promotion plus get some free toothpaste. They were out of most of the P&G items that I was looking for, so I bought the Crest toothpaste that was on sale 10 for $10 and used the $.50 off coupon from 8/1 P&G to get it for free. I also bought some Act II popcorn because our WalMart doesn't carry it.
I had planned to go to WalMart for the rest of our groceries, but then on Wednesday I was going to Albertson's to buy the Frito-Lay 22ct Chips with their coupon for $4.99. Well, WalMart had those chip packs on sale for $5.69 (I've never seen them under $6.29) plus each bag had a coupon for $1 off any loaf of bread. So, it saved me a trip to Albertson's and $.30 on each bag of chips.
Overall, it was a great day of shopping! I only spent $8 more than half of my budget!! I love coupons!! :-)
Transaction #1
3 20-ct boxes of Toy Story Band Aids - $3.59 each
M&Ms - $.50
ECBs from last week's photo book - $7.99
Band Aid 8/1 Smartsource - $3 off 3
Total OOP - $.28
ECBs earned - $5
Transaction #2
Gillette Fusion Power Razor - $9.79
ECBs from Trans #1 - $5
Gillette Fusion 8/1 Proctor & Gamble - $4
Total OOP - $.86
ECBs earned - $5
Not only did I get all of that stuff for just $1.14 out of pocket, but I can send in the proofs of purchase from the Band Aids to receive a free Toy Story 3 book! My next stop was Walgreen's. I messed up there by missing a $3 off coupon, but I still think I did great:
Transaction #1
Alive! Multivitamins 50ct - $10
Total OOP - $10
Register Rewards earned - $10
Transaction #2
Bayer Aspirin AM 50ct (this is the Walgreen's $3 off that I missed)
Dawn Dish Detergent
Visine
2x Highlighter 6pk
Erasers cap 15pk
2x Erasers big pink 2pk
Pointed Scissors
Crayola Crayons 24pk
Wooden Ruler
Plastic School Box
Filler Paper 280shts
2x Spiral Notebook 70shts
2x 2-Pocket Folder with Prongs
Bayer AM 8/1 RedPlum - $2
Bayer AM Walgreen's August Book - $3 (the one I missed)
Dawn 8/1 Proctor & Gamble - $.25
Visine 6/13 RedPlum - $1
Visine Walgreen's August Book - $2
Register Rewards from Transaction #1 - $10
Total OOP - $.75
So, while I got a lot of great stuff, I could have used another $2.25 if I had been paying closer attention. Oh well! My next stop was Kroger where I wanted to do one transaction of the Proctor & Gamble $4 off instantly promotion plus get some free toothpaste. They were out of most of the P&G items that I was looking for, so I bought the Crest toothpaste that was on sale 10 for $10 and used the $.50 off coupon from 8/1 P&G to get it for free. I also bought some Act II popcorn because our WalMart doesn't carry it.
I had planned to go to WalMart for the rest of our groceries, but then on Wednesday I was going to Albertson's to buy the Frito-Lay 22ct Chips with their coupon for $4.99. Well, WalMart had those chip packs on sale for $5.69 (I've never seen them under $6.29) plus each bag had a coupon for $1 off any loaf of bread. So, it saved me a trip to Albertson's and $.30 on each bag of chips.
Overall, it was a great day of shopping! I only spent $8 more than half of my budget!! I love coupons!! :-)
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