Publix Health & Beauty Green Advantage Buy Flyer 10/29 - 11/18

Publix coupons expiring 11/18/11:
$2.00 Gold Bond Ultimate lotion any 13 - 14 oz.
$8.00 any 2 mix or match: Claritin 30 ct. or larger, Claritin-D 15 ct. or large, or Zegerid OTC 42 ct.
$4.00 Allegra 24 hour 30 - 45 ct. or Allegra-D 12/24 hour 5 - 20 ct.
$5.00 any 2 mix or match: Bifera, Geritol, Feosol, Contac or Vivarin (in select stores)
50¢ Halls any 20 - 25 ct. (I have seen some Halls on clearance!)
$?.00 ThermaCare products any 2 - 3 ct.
$3.00 Unisom 32 ct. (in select stores)
$1.00 BIC multi-purpose lighter, flex or combo pack
$1.00 any St. Ives body wash, skin lotion, or face care product
$1.00 any Noxzema product
$1.50 any Dove body wash 18 oz. or larger
$1.50 any Dove visiblecare body wash
$6.00 any 2 mix or match: Sundown Naturals, Osteo Bi-Flex, Marvel Heroes gummies, Disney multivitamin 60 ct., Ester-C 60 - 90 ct., or Flex-a-min 80 - 120 ct.
50¢ any Dial Complete foaming hand soap
$1.00 any Theraflu Triaminic product

Coupon Preview 1 RP + 1 SS (Plus a MM Deal!)

There will be 2 inserts (1 RP and 1 SS) in your Sunday paper this weekend, plus a new Publix Yellow Advantage Flyer. If you haven't stocked up on the Voskos yogurt that current YAF PQ expires Friday 10/21, along with the LaCreme yogurt PQ. Either of those deals makes for some stockpile price yogurt.
Here's an upcoming deal for AXE Shower gel. The 10/23 SS has a BOGO AXE coupon for shower gel which is currently $4.99 via Publix Curbside Price Check. There is also a $1.50/1 AXE Shower gel MQ on http://www.redplum.com/ which only allows one print per PC so you need a couple more computers to print out a few. There is also a $3/3 PQ in the Publix Green Advantage Flyer (exp 10/28) that will stack with these MQ's to give you some cheap Shower gel. If you have one of the $5/$30 PQ from the Take Your Budget By the Horns booklets (still available at the USF Terrace Ridge Publix - ask customer service) that will make it free.

How To Save Money On A Car

Purchasing a vehicle is one of the biggest investments you will be making besides a home. However, there are many tips on how to save money when you hit up a car dealership that will leave you with big bucks in your pocket. Below, you will find several tips on how to walk out of the dealership with the best deal possible.

One of the biggest problems that occurs when purchasing a vehicle is buying at sticker price. The price on the sticker is often overpriced with room for negotiation. By simply asking to lower the price, this will often get you savings of up to $2,000 without much hassle. Remember, you do not have to be pressured to purchase a vehicle at an unreasonable cost. If the dealer attempts to pressure you and does not want to reduce the cost, simply tell them that you will continue looking for a car at another dealership.

Another tip to saving money when purchasing a vehicle is to pay fully in cash. By doing this, you will save yourself thousands of dollars in interest. In addition, this decision will allow you to own the car outright without any possibility of repossession or high interest payments. Since this is not always possible, the next best step is to make a large down payment to reduce the principle amount that will be financed. A lower principle balance will reduce the amount of interest that will accumulate over the life of the car note. Ultimately, this will save you money as well by preventing excessive compound interest from robbing you of your hard earned dollars.

The last way to save money when purchasing a vehicle is to buy a pre-owned vehicle instead of a new one. Buying a new car may feel great but comes with a heavier sticker price. By purchasing a certified used vehicle, you are able to save up to $5,000 because of it having a previous owner. Also, rather than trading in your current vehicle, it is possible to get more money for it by selling it yourself. Many dealerships will low-ball the value of your vehicle during a trade-in to your disadvantage in order to reap a bigger profit. This can be avoided and will allow you to make more money for your down payment. Furthermore, having more available cash will give you more options when choosing your future vehicle.

Guest post:Sean is an expert when it comes to cars because he works for Cash for Junk Cars Company that pays cash for autos.

Publix Sneak Peek Weekly Ad 10/20 - 10/26/11

BOGO's (10/20-10/26/11):Breyers Ice Cream or Blasts! Frozen Dairy Dessert, assorted varieties, 48-oz cnt, save up to $5.99

Pepperidge Farm Chunk Cookies, assorted varieties, 7.2 to 8.6 oz bag or Soft Baked: Santa Cruz Oatmeal Raisin, Sanibel Snickerdoodle, or Mystic Sugar, 8.6 oz bag, save up to $3.49

Potato Inspirations Honey Gold Potatoes, 28-oz bag, save up to $3.99

Sweet Baby Ray's Meatballs or Sliced Pork or Shredded Pork with Sauce, 16 to 20-oz pkg, save up to $5.99

Fresh Express Salad Blend, assorted varieties, 5 to 13.8 oz bag, save up to $3.99

DiGiorno Cheese, assorted varieties, 5 or 6 oz cup, save up to $4.79

Green Giant Vegetables, Cut Green Beans, Whole Kernel Sweet Corn, or Sweet Peas, 4-pk, 14.6 to 15.25 oz can, save up to $4.99

Hunt's 100% Natural Tomatoes, assorted varieties, 28-oz can or Tomato Sauce or Puree, 29-oz can, save up to $1.99

New England Freshly Ground Coffee, assorted varieties, 9 to 12 oz bag, save up to $7.69

Ken's Steak House Dressing, assorted varieties, 16-oz bottle, save up to $3.55

Bumble Bee Premium Albacore Tuna, In Water, 5-oz pouch, save up to $2.89

Mt. Olive Sweet Relish or Pickles, selected varieties, 16-oz jar, save up to $2.19

Duke's Mayonnaise or Whipped Salad Dressing, assorted varieties, 32-oz jar, save up to $3.99

Kellogg's Special K Cereal, assorted varieties, 11.4 to 14 oz box, or Low Fat Granola, 19.5 oz box, save up to $3.69

Barilla Plus Multigrain Pasta, assorted varieties, 14.6-oz box, save up to $2.39

Aunt Jemima Pancake & Waffle Mix, assorted varieties, 32 or 35 oz box, save up to $2.85

General Mills Cereals, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Trix, Golden Grahams, or Cocoa Puffs, 10.7 to 12.8 oz box, save up to $3.49

Orville Redenbacher's Gourmet Popping Corn, assorted varieties, Mini bags, 6 or 10-ct, 10 to 19.8 oz box or 30-oz jar, save up to $4.89

Thomas' English Muffins or Hearty Muffins, assorted varieties, 11 to 13-oz pkg, save up to $3.89

Nature's Own Bread, Whitewheat, 20-oz loaf, save up to $2.69

Keebler Chips Deluxe Cookies, assorted varieties, 13.3 to 14.8 oz bag, save up to $3.49

Wrigley's 5 Gum, assorted varieties, Sugarfree, 15-ct pkg, save up to $1.49

Power of Fruit All-Fruit Bars, assorted varieties, 100% Frozen Fruit, 6-ct 10.5-oz box, save up to $3.39

Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough or Brownie Dough, assorted varieties, 16 or 16.5 oz pkg, save up to $2.79

Smart Balance Spread, assorted varieties, 13 or 15 oz or 2-pk 7.5-oz tub or Spray, 8-oz bottle, (Excluding Organic), save up to $2.59

Yoplait Fiber One Yogurt, assorted varieties, Creamy, Nonfat, 4-pk, 4-oz cup, save up to $2.79

Gardein Garden + Protein Entrees, assorted varieties, Meat-Free 9 to 10.5-oz pkg or The Ultimate Beefless Burger, 4-ct 12-oz pkg, Surprisingly Low Price (Atlanta curbside shows $3.99)

Pepperidge Farm Garlic or Cheese Texas Toast or Premium Roasted Garlic Toast, assorted varieties, 9.5 to 12.7 oz box, save up to $2.89

Delizza Mini Belgian Eclairs or Cream Puffs, assorted varieties, 10.5 to 14.8 oz tub, save up to $5.59

Pedigree Dentastix Snack Food for Dogs or Jumbone, assorted varieties, 5.57 to 7.05 oz pkg, save up to $3.59

Hershey's Snacks Size Chocolates, assorted varieties, All Time Greats, Reese's Lovers, Scare & Share, Hershey's/Reese's Candies, or Pieces & More, 50-ct, 22.7 to 27.8 oz bag, save up to $8.99

Nestle 100 Pieces Fun Size Candies or Nestle/Wonka Assorted Candies, or Wonka Monster Ups or Factory Mix, Assorted Varieties, 48 to 56-oz bag, save up to $9.99

Nestle Ultimate Scream Fun Size Candies or Classic Scream, 3 Fun Size Bags, Nestle Wonka Assorted, or Wonka 200 Pieces, assorted varieties, 32 to 44 oz bag, save up to $8.49

Resolve Spray 'n Wash Laundry Stain Remover, Regular or Max, 12 or 22-oz bottle or Stain Stick, 3-oz stick, save up to $2.99

Colgate Toothpaste, assorted varieties, 6.4-oz tube, Surprisingly Low Price (Atlanta Curbside shows $2.69)

Publix Allergy Tablets, Antihistamine, 24-ct box (Active Ingredient: Diphenhydramine), save up to $3.79

Ocean Blue Professional Dietary Supplement, Omega-3 2100 Soft Gels, 60-ct bottle, save up to $16.95

Deli:
Publix Deli 20-Piece Hot & Spicy Wings, Fresh Chilled or Hot, Hand Breaded or Non-Breaded, Fried in Trans Fat Free Oil, $6.99/lb
Publix Deli Lemon Pepper Rotisserie Chicken, Fresh Chilled or Hot, $6.99
Publix Deli Fire Roasted Salsa with Black Beans and Corn, 16 oz pkg, $2.99
Boar's Head Top Round Roast Beef, $9.69/lb
Publix Deli Hummus, 8-oz pkg, $1.99

Bakery:
Potato Rolls, 12-count, 15-oz pkg, $2.49
Bakery Bread Soup Bowls, 8-oz bag, $1.19
Italian Five Grain Bread, 16-oz loaf, $2.89
Raspberry Filled Donut Nuggets, 24-count, 8-oz pkg, $3.39
Apple or Cherry Turnovers, 4-count, 14-oz pkg, $4.79
Decorated Cupcakes, 6-count, $3.99
Decorated Cupcakes, 12-ct, $6.99

Seafood:
Medium Cooked Shrimp, Farm-Raised Previously Frozen, 41 to 50 per Pound, save up to $7.99/lb
Fresh Catfish Fillets, farm-raised, never frozen, $6.99/lb
Medium White Shrimp, 41 to 5- per pound, $6.39/lb
Medium White Shrimp, peeled and deveined, 51 to 60 per pound, $7.39/lb
Cedar Plank Salmon, assorted varieties, 9.7 oz pkg, $8.99
Snow Crab Clusters, Wild Harvested, Fully-Cooked, Previously Frozen, $9.99/lb

Meat:
Boneless New York Strip Steaks, save up to $6.99/lb
Whole Boneless New York Strip, in the bag, $5.99/lb
Boneless Shoulder Roast, $3.99/lb
Boneless Shoulder Steaks, $4.29/lb
Publix Mild or Hot Italian Sausage, $3.99/lb
Center-Cut Pork Rib Chops, $3.49/lb
Eye Round Roast, $3.99/lb
Eye Round Steak, $4.29/lb
Pork Spareribs, $2.69/lb
Pork Sliced, $2.99/lb
Ground Chuck, $3.29/lb
Perdue Boneless Chicken Breast, $2.99/lb
Ground Chicken Patties, 16-oz pkg, $2.99

Produce:
Green Scallion Onions, 2/$.99
Naturally Fresh Salad Toppers, assorted varieties, 3.5 oz pkg, 2/$5
Tomatoes on the Vine, greenhouse grown, $1.99/lb
Large Red Delicious Apples or Royal Gala or Fuji, $1.29/lb
Large Honeycrisp Apples, $1.99/lb
Red or White Seedless Grapes, $1.69/lb
Green Beans or Yellow or Zucchini Squash, $1.49/lb
Publix Sliced or Whole White Mushrooms, 8-oz pkg, 2/$3
Publix Fresh and Tender Spinach, 9-oz bag, 2/$4
California Bartlett Pears, $.88/lb
Del Monte Gold Ripe Pineapple, $2.99
Premium Peaches, $1.99/lb
Florida Navel Oranges, 4-lb bag, $2.99

Dairy:
Publix Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, 4-oz pkg, $1.49
Publix Thin Sliced Lunch Meats, Ham: Cooked or Honey; or Turkey Breast: Roasted or Smoked Honey, 16-oz pkg, 2/$9
Publix Shredded Cheese, assorted varieties, 6 to 8-oz pkg, 2/$5
Sargento Cheese Slices, assorted varieties, 5 to 8-oz pkg, $2.79
Voskos Greek Yogurt, assorted varieties, including Voskos Crunch, 4.6 or 5.3 oz cup, 10/$10
Smart Balance Milk, assorted varieties, half-gal ctn, 2/$6

Frozen:
Publix Tilapia Fillets, 24-pkg $7.99
Weight Waters Ice Cream Bars or Ice Cream Sandwiches, Sundae Cones, or Frozen Yogurt Bars, assorted varieties, 12 to 24-oz pkg, $3.99
Marie Callender's Bakes Enteres, assorted varieties, 24 to 31-oz box, $3.99
Healthy Choice Café Steamers Entrees or Healthy Choice Meals, assorted varieties, 9.5 to 12-oz box, 4/$10

Grocery:
Publix Naturally Hickory Smoked Bacon, Original, Lower Sodium, or Lower Sodium Thick-Sliced, 16-oz pkg, or Center-Cut, 12-oz pkg, 2/$7
Ball Park Beef Franks, Regular, Bun Size, fat Free, Grillmaster, or Jumbo, 14 to 16-oz pkg (Excluding Angus and Deli Style) 2/$6
Tropicana Pure Premium Orange Juice or Ruby Red Grapefurit or Trop50 Beverage, assorted varieties, 59-oz pkg, 2/$6
Stacy's Pita Chips, assorted varieties, 7.33 or 8-oz bag, 2/$5
Gatorade Thirst Quencher or G2 Low-Calorie Electrolyte Beverage, assorted varieties, 8-pk, 20-oz bottle, 2/$10
Mott's 100% Apple Juice or Mott's for Tots or Mott's Plus Juice, assorted varieties, from concentrate, 64-oz bottle, 3/$6
Progresso 100% Natural Broth, assorted varieties, 32-oz can, 2/$4
Del Monte Fruit or Fruit & Gel, assorted varieties, 4-pk 3.75 to 4.5 oz cup or Fruit Chillers, 8 ct 2-oz tube, 2/$4
Uncle Ben's Brown & Wild Rice or Long Grain & Wild Rice, selected varieties, 6 to 6.7 oz box, 2/$3
12-Pack Selected Coca-Cola Products, 12-oz can, 3/$13
Selected Coca-Cola Products, 2-L bottle, 2/$3
Deer Park Natural Spring Water, 24-pk, 5-L bottle, $3.99
8-pack Selected Pepsi Products, 12-oz bottle, 3/$10
Arizona Tea, assorted varieties, 1-gal bottle, 2/$5
Doritos Tortilla Chips, assorted varieties, 11 to 12-oz bag (Excluding Baked) 2/$5
Cape Cod Kettle Cooked Potato Chips or Kettle Style Whole Grain Chips, assorted varieties, 8 or 8.5 oz bag, 2/$5
Nabisco Ritz Crackers or Ritz Bits Sandwiches or Munchables Pretzel Crisps or Thins, assorted varieties, 7.5 to 16-oz box, 2/$5
Large Pumpkins, $5.99

Household:
Angel Soft Unscented Bathroom Tissue, Septic Safe, 2-Ply: Double, 12-roll pkg, Regular, 24-roll pkg, or Mega, 9-roll pkg, $5.49
Kingsford Charcoal Briquets, 11.1 to 16.6 lb bag, $6.99
Brawny Premium Performance Paper Towels, Pick-A-Size, Big Roll, 1-roll pkg, 2/$3
Publix Plastic Cups, 16-oz 50-ct pkg, $2.19
Publix Clear Food Wrap or Aluminum Foil, 75 or 200 sq ft pkg, $2.19
Sparkle Paper Towels, with Thirst Pockets: Pick-A-Size White or Prints, 2-Ply, Big Rolls, 6-roll pkg, $5.49
Duracell CopperTop Alkaline Batteries, AA or AAA, 4-ct pkg, C or D, 2-ct pkg, or 9 Volt, 1-ct pkg, $2.99
3M Micro Allergen Reduction Filters, assorted sizes, $9.99
3M Ultra Allergen Reduction Filters, assorted sizes, $13.99
Halloween Decorations or Apparel or Accessories, assorted varieties, (excluding Candy & Reusable Bags) 25% off
Halloween Pumpkin Carving Kit, assorted varieties, 25% off
Purex Laundry Detergent, assorted varieties, 83 to 100-oz bottle, $4.99
Finish Automatic Dishwasher Detergent, Fresh Scent All in 1 Pewerball Tabs or Orange Scent Gelpacs, 20-ct box or Quantum Powerball Capsules, 10-ct. box, $2.99
Febreze Candles, assorted varieties, 5.5-oz pkg, $4.99
Tide Detergent, assorted varieties, 150-oz bottle, $17.99
Lysol Disinfectant Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner or Country Scent Lysol Cling, assorted varieties, 24-oz bottle or 4 in 1 Bathroom Cleaner, 24-oz can, 2/$4

Health & Beauty:
L'Oreal EverSleek Hair Products or EverPure or EverStrong, assorted varieties, 1.8 to 8.5-oz pkg, $5.99
Dove Bar Soap, assorted varieties, 6-fct, 4.2 or 4.25-oz box, $6.99
Dove Body Wash, 18 to 24-oz bottle, $5.49
Roc Facial Products, assorted varieties, .5 to 1.7-oz pkg, $16.79
CoverGirl NatureLuxe Cosmetics, assorted varieties, each pkg, $1.00 off
Blistex Lip Balm, assorted varieties, .13 to .21-oz pkg, or 3-ct pkg, 10/$10
Kellogg's Special K Protein Meal Bar, assorted varieties, 6-ct box, 2/$10
Excedrin Pain Medicine, assorted varieties, 50-ct bottle, ($1.50 Instant Redeemable Coupon on Select Packages) $3.99
Opti-Free Replenish Disinfecting Solution, Multi-Purpose No Rub Sterile or Express Lasting Comfort Solution Formula, Twini Pack, 2-ct, 10-oz box, $12.99
Neosporin Ointment or Cream or Spray, assorted varieties, .26 or .5-oz pkg, or Lip Health Care, .3 or .35-oz pkg, $3.79

Baby:
Gerber 2nd Food Baby Food, selected varieties, 2-pk, 3.5-oz cont. (excluding Organic and DHA varieties), 10/$10

Pet:
Purina Dog Chow Dog Food, 34-lb bag, $16.99
Purina ONE Cat Food, 3.5-lb bag, 2/$10

In-Ad Coupons:
$5 off the Purchase of Two (2) or More Similac Infant Formula Powder, Isomil Advance Soy, Sensitive Milk-Based Lactose-Free, Go & Grow: Milk-Based or Soy, or Advance Complete Nutrition, 22 or 23.2-oz cnstr, (LU #5173)
Free Pamper Wipes Refills selected varieties, 192 or 216-ct pkg, with Purchase of One (1) Pampers Cruisers Diapers, selected varieties, 76 to 120-ct box or Swaddlers, 132-ct pkg (LU # 5172)

Love to Shop Here. Love to Save Here. (Essentials)
Caprisun Juice Drink Blend or Lemonade or Roarin's Waters, assorted varieties, 10-pk 6-oz pkg, (Excluding 100% Juice 10-pk), $1.79
General Mills Honey Nut Cheerios Cereal, 12.25-oz box, $1.99 (limit 4)
Deer Park natural Spring Water, 3-L bottle, $.89
Campbell's Chunky Soup, assorted varieties, 18.6 to 19-oz can or $15.25-oz bowl, $1.29
Skippy Peanut Butter, assorted varieties, 15 or 16.3 oz jar, $1.99
Publix GreenWise Paper Towels, 2-ply, 3-rool pkg, $1.99
Small Crème Cakes, 16-oz, $3.49
Publix Deli White or Yellow American Cheese, $4.99/lb
Arm & Hammer Advance White Toothpaste, Fresh Mint Brilliant Sparkle, Mint Baking Soda & Peroxide Tartar Control, or Sensitive, 6 or 6.3-oz tube, $2.49
 
Thanks to Slickdeals - check back there for coupon matchups

My Publix Trip - Paid $15.52, Saved 82%

My Publix trip yesterday was a bust. All we got was some bananas for $1.02. I just couldn't get myself to pay more than a couple dollars when I know if I hold out and wait for Airwick candles and Olay Regenerist products to get back on the shelves I can have plenty of overage to pay for my produce and some sale items I want. There are a lot of good deals but I need to stock up on a couple things for the winter so we can make chili. I was going to sell all our peanut butter stockpile at our garage sale this weekend, but now have decided to pull back enough for a year due to the news of an impending price hike on peanut butter. I'm also considering holding more of the cereal due to anticipated price hikes.
 
So, here's my list of items I want to pick up this weekend or early next week. The candy is a maybe depending on overage - I would like one of the new bags though.  I'll probably check out a few outlier stores that seem to less cleared shelves, but they have to accept Target coupons since the soup, parm cheese, glade and hunts all need stacking TQ's with the MQ's. I'm also looking to get a couple more Stouffers Lasagne as long as they are part of the Essentials price reduction. It's so easy to just microwave it 29 minutes and the calories are reasonable at 295 per serving. I'll be hoping to just pick up a couple items with each shop and keep my totals either at $25 or $55 to maximize my use of the $ off $$ Publix and Save A Lot coupons.
 
13-Oct 28   82.13 18.65 47.90 tax 15.58 27 -81.03%
Product qty price subtl B1G1 -Q   total Q# Q details
romaine   2.29 0.00       0.00    
lettuce 1 1.69 1.69       1.69    
cucumber 1 0.50 0.50       0.50    
bananas 2 0.35 0.70       0.70    
tomatoes   1.00 0.00       0.00    
cantaloupe 1 2.50 2.50       2.50    
mushrooms   2.50 0.00       0.00    
soup select harvest BOGO 2 2.49 4.98 2.49 2.00   0.49 2 $1/2 PQ + $1/2 9-11ss or 10-9ss
Busy Bone dog treats 1 2.50 2.50   2.00   0.50 2 $1/1 PQ purina pet + $1/1 MQ 9-25rp
Publix Bag   0.99 0.00       0.00   Free bag wyb $9.99 of Mars candy YAF
Mars Candy BOGO   6.59 0.00       0.00   $1.00/3 TQ + $1.50/3 9-25RP
Glade 4oz candle 2 2.00 4.00   3.50   0.50 2 $1.50/2 TQ + $1.250/2 MQ 9-25ss
Pompien Olive Oil BOGO 32oz 2 11.99 23.98 11.99 2.00   9.99 2 $1/1 MQ print
Hunts Tomatoes 14.5oz BOGO 6 1.39 8.34 4.17 2.40   1.77 5 $0.50/2 TQ + $0.45/3 10-2ss
Kraft Grated Parm Cheese 2 3.00 6.00   2.00   4.00 2 $1/2 TQ + $1/2 tearpad
Beneful dog meals tubs   1.67 0.00       0.00   B4G2 8-7ss + $1/2 PQ OSOS
Airwick Candle big (get 2) RC 6 3.99 23.94   27.00   -3.06  9 $2/1 MQ 9-18ss + $5/2 PQ OSOSbooklet
Yogurt LeCreme 4pk 2 1.50 3.00   2.00   1.00 2 $1/1 YAB
Olay Regernst Cleansing RC   3.99 0.00       0.00   $3/1 PG 10-2,$10/2 9-25RP+ $2/2 TQ 9-25RP
$/$$ coupon   0.00 0.00       0.00   $5/$30 PQ Take Budget by horns
$/$$ coupon   0.00 0.00   5.00   -5.00 1 $5/$25 SAL

Is This Being Cheap?

Please give me some feedback on this, I don't want to be cheap and I will do whatever is the right thing to do. Here's the situation:
 
Our team at work is planning on giving our boss a gift for Boss's Day on Monday. The person who usually gathers all the donations and gets the card is on vacation so I got together with with another gal and we decided that we would do something similar to what we've done in the past for the boss - give her a gift card and I put together a goodie bag of stuff from my stockpile. The boss loves these gifts as she's a more practical person like me, not into flowers and fashion. Anyway, this other person and I decided on a $25 gift card from the team, and I would put together a nice pink Publix bag of Olay, candles, cat food and treats, chocolate snacks and nuts, Gain detergent, pens, scissors, tape and hand soap. I have a free blank greeting card from Shutterfly with a nice flower picture on front that we can write whatever we want in it. We're asking each of the 8 people on the team for a $3 donation toward the gift card. I figured I would just pull a $25 Publix gift card from my stash and put it in the card. I also got one of those "Take Your Budget By the Horns" coupon booklets yesterday from the USF Store (you can still get them folks!) that have a $5 off $30 coupon each month through May 2012.
 
So, I called people on the team since we're located in three different facilities and I explained what we're doing and said I could get the $3 from each person at the remote sites at later times this month. So I have to front the money for the gift card, that's why I was just going to pull one from my stash and keep the cash as it came in.
 
Anyway, I was talking to another coworker on another team about what they're doing for their boss and I mentioned what we're doing. They all know I'm into couponing and have lots of stockpile stuff, but they still laugh about it. So, I said I was donating the product and putting together a bag of stuff and getting the $25 GC from my stash of them. Well, you would think I had said I was stealing it! This person I was talking to was appalled that I would take cash from coworkers and keep it. I asked what the difference was, either I take the cash to Publix and buy a gift card today, or just pay myself for the gift card. She doesn't really know that the gift card was a gift from doing a giveaway or from overage on previous shops, but it is.
 
As it is, all the people at my facility have paid up and I have only $12. I'll get $3 on Monday, and $6 more on Wednesday, and the final $3 on Halloween. So, if it is cheap to just use one of my own gift cards, I'll have to buy a gift card when I only have 1/2 the money - so I'll have to use one of my personal Publix gift cards plus the $12 to buy a $25 gift card. That just seems stupid to me. So there you have it, my dilemma of the day.
 
What would you do? 

New or Old?

Today, one of my coworkers was asking where I got my panniers on my bicycle. They're thinking of getting some and couldn't find any in the bike shops they liked. I looked at my old CyclePro Countryside Originals and explained that these panniers are over 23 years old. They sag a little on the rack, and the main compartment zipper has been repaired numerous times, and the side pockets had a hole in them. But they are still better than what I could buy new. The old canvas is tough and resilient, whereas the new ones are nylon which is inferior for the purpose. With my daily use, they are showing their age and replacements or repairs are needed. Its one of those things that is always on my "list" to get when there's a deal, or in this case when I actually find some that are suitable - at any price. Meanwhile they do the job well.
 
But sometimes, new things are much better quality than old. I think electronic or electrical things actually are better with the advanced technology. DH has been complaining about his electric Remington shaver for a while. We got new blades for it a couple months ago, but it still was just not performing as expected. So I found a new shaver on Amazon that arrived yesterday. You have to know that DH does not really embrace change. He likes his routine and whenever something is different, he complains and fusses until he's settled in the new way. So of course, he whined that it charged different than the other one. He whined that the suction cups on the charger stuck to the table, but not the porcelain of the top of the toilet. But he did like that it was a lot quieter, and it was a lot smoother shave. So, now he's raving about it wanting to show me his close shave by snuggling cheek to cheek. I have to admit it really is a better shave, and something he should have switched out long ago.
 
Being frugal can sometimes make us hang on to stuff longer than we should. But it also keeps us using the durable, well made products that you can't buy quality anymore. You just have to know which is which.
 
Do you have a gem or a rock? 
 

Simplify Couponing

It seems like a lot of people would love to try to save a bunch of money with coupons, but they just can't get the grasp of it. Of course the simplest thing to do, is nothing. The next simplest thing is to read the early version of the store ad that you get in the mail or in your email, and plan your shopping list around the ad. If your store is Publix and you get the Buy One, Get One (BOGO) items, you'll save 50% right there.
 
However, this won't give you the greatest savings. Its not that hard to put a little more effort into your planning and get greater savings. Here are some simple things I'd recommend to keep your expenses down and get the products you want and need for less money.
 
1. Know your favorite stores coupon policy. They all have them online on their websites, just google it and tons of blogs have it referenced too. You need to know if you can stack a manufacturer (MQ) coupon with a store coupon on one item, can you use a MQ on a free item when there is a BOGO sale, can you use competitor coupons or price match competitor ads? There are definitely some stores that give you more coupon savings options and I would recommend you shop there. I prefer shopping at Publix because they accept stacking coupons, competitor coupons and they have BOGO sales each week. Sweetbay is almost the same policy but they lack the BOGO sale items each week. Winn Dixie won't accept competitor coupons but they allow stacking of their WD & MQ coupons, plus they have BOGO sales each week.
 
2. Once you know the policy, you need to get your coupons. I would recommend buying a Sunday paper for each person in your household to get the coupon inserts. If you can't afford a paper, sign up for the free newspaper in your city that has coupon inserts (in Tampa its the Centro). Or you can go "recycling" in your neighborhood and pull out the coupon inserts from your neighbors recycle bins on the curb the night before recycle day. I used to do this for a year when I first started couponing and would regularly get a dozen copies of inserts in 30 minutes while I walked my dog. Its pretty easy and its free. Once you start saving your grocery money, you may want to give it up and just buy your papers. There is another local blogger that can sign you up for a fifty cent subscription to the Tampa Tribune Sunday paper if you're interested let me know. I would not recommend buying coupons from clipping services, its not necessary unless you live in the boonies and your local paper sucks.
 
Also follow some blogs with coupon links where you can print coupons. Many of these are the same as you'll find in the paper, so if you get the paper you don't need many of these. Sign up for facebook and you can print coupons from manufacturers there. Pick up the coupon booklets at the store when you shop which will have store coupons.Get blinkie coupons from the red light flashing boxes on the store shelves. Get coupons even if you don't know for sure you'll get the item. It might go on sale and you'll be glad you have the matching coupon.
 
3. Organize your coupons. This step is where people get frustrated and waste a lot of time. The simple way is to just write the date on the top of the insert and file it in a box in chronological order. Keep peelies and blinkies and printed coupons in an envelope. You probably won't have too many of these to worry about organization, just keep all like coupons together. Only carry coupons in your clutch that you need for your shopping list, and possibly for overage items.
 
4. Preview the Ad - find out how you can see the ad early, usually several days before it starts. There are many blogs that post the early Publix ad, and walmart, Sweetbay and Winn Dixie. It is also available on the www.slickdeals.net forum which is one of my favorite resources for coupon deals. By previewing the ad, you can make up your list of what you need, see what coupons match up, and pull your coupons from your box. Or print the ones you need from the links in the preview. If you have to buy coupons from a clipper service this preview will give you a few days to order and have the coupons you want shipped to you in time for the sale.
 
5. Make Your List - I make my list using Excel so it is actually a spreadsheet that shows the count of coupons, count of items, cost of items, BOGO discounts, coupon discounts, tax and my total. I also use my smartphone free app Grocery Tracker that is essentially the same spreadsheet but on my phone. It allows me to make changes to my list in the store and still keep track of my total.
 
6. Shop. I recommend shopping on the first day of the sale if you can. If you can't, find out when the trucks restock your favorite store and shop that day. If its Monday, go shopping Monday. Get in the habit of bringing your own reusable bags with your coupon clutch, and you'll never forget your coupons. If they are out of an item, make sure you get a raincheck from customer service. Try to shop with out distractions, leave the kids at home if you can. If you can shop with a partner, it is much more fun and lots of times it helps to have a "runner" get some forgotten item, or pick up a raincheck too.
 
These simple steps take less time per week than you spend doing your hair. I'm serious, you can spend about an hour a week and cut your grocery bill in half, or more. The important thing is to just stay organized, file those coupons and monitor the ad.
 
Your pocket book will thank you.

Publix BOGO's Weekly Ad 10/13 - 10/19/11

BOGO:Pompeian Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Imported, 32-oz bottle, save up to $12.09
Northland 100% Blended Juices, assorted varieties, from concentrate, 64-oz bottle, save up to $4.15
A.1. Steak Sauce, assorted varieties, 10-oz bottle, save up to $3.31
Trans Ocean Crab Classic, Flake Style, Crab-Flavored Seafood, Made from Surimi, 14-oz bag, save up to $3.99
Matlaw's Stuffed Clams, assorted varieties, 7 to 11 oz pkg, save up to $3.99
Flatout Fold-It Artisan Flatbreads, 5 Grain Flax or Rosemary & Olive Oil, located in the Publix Deli, 8.5 or 9-oz bag, save up to $2.99
Mini Cake Donuts, Your Choice of Plain, Powdered Sugar, Assorted, or Chocolate Coated, From the Publix Bakery, 10-oz pkg, save up to $3.69
Wish-Bone Dressing, assorted varieties, 16-oz bottle, save up to $2.65
Sweet Baby Ray's Barbecue Sauce, Original, Honey, or Hickory & Brown Sugar, 28-oz bottle, save up to $3.29
Lawry's 30 Minute Marinade, assorted varieties, 12-oz bottle, save up to $3.15
Vlasic Stackers Dills or Pickles or Spears, selected varieties, 16 to 46 oz jar, save up to $2.89
Welch's Essentials Juice Cocktail Blend or Concord Grape Light Juice or Orange Pineapple & Apple Fruit Juice Cocktail, selected varieties, 64-oz bottle, save up to $3.45
Gatorade Thirst Quencher or G2 Low-Calorie Electrolyte Beverage, assorted varieties, 64-oz bottle, save up to $2.50
Crystal Light Drink Mix, assorted varieties, 5 or 6-pk, 10 or 12-qt cnstr (Excluding Mocktails, 10-qt cnstr.) save up $3.99
Campbell's Select Harvest Soup, assorted varieties, 18.6 to 18.8 oz can or 15.3 oz bowl, save up to $2.49
Musselman's Apple Sauce, assorted varieties, 6-pk, 4-oz cup, save up to $2.39
Post Cereal, assorted varieties, Pebbles, Alpha-Bites, Honey-Comb, Churros, or Golden Crisp, 11 to 14.75 oz box, save up to $3.25
Bertolli Pasta Sauce or Sauce or Vineyard Premium Collections Pasta Sauce, assorted varieties, 15 or 24 oz jar (Excluding Organics), save up to $2.75
Back to Nature Granola, assorted Varieties, 7.5 to 13.5-oz bag, save up to $3.99
Propel Zero Water Beverage, assorted varieties, Nutrient Enhanced, 6-pk, 500-ml bottle, save up to $3.99
Pop-Secret Premium Popcorn, assorted varieties, 6 or 10-ct, 11.2 to 19.2 oz box or 30-oz jar, save up to $4.69
Ruffles Potato Chips, assorted varieties, 8.5 to 10-oz bag (Excluding Baked; Light, and Natural), save up to $4.29
Keebler Town House Crackers, assorted varieties, 7.7 to 16-oz box, save up to $3.69
Mrs. Fields Cookies or Triple Chocolate Cookies, assorted varieties, 8-oz pkg, save up to $2.79
Nabisco Toasted Chips, assorted varieties, 8.1-oz bag, save up to $3.69
Arnold Bread, assorted varieties, 24-oz loaf (Excluding Dutch Country Breads), save up to $4.29
Emerald Mixed Nuts or Almonds or Cashews, assorted varieties, 10 to 11.5 oz cnstr, save up to $5.79
Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns or Southwest Style Hash Browns, Diced Potatoes with Onion, Homestyle Slices, or Red Potato Wedges, 20-oz bag, save up to $2.59
Lender's Bagels, assorted varieties, Pre-sliced, located in the Dairy Section, 6-ct bag, save up to $1.95
Home Run Inn Chicago's Premium Pizza, assorted varieties, 27 to 31 oz box, save up to $7.99
Gorton's Shrimp or Premium Fish Fillets or Sticks, assorted varieties, 10.5 to 17.2 oz pkg, save up to $7.99
Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers Vegetables, assorted varieties, 11 or 12-oz bag, save up to $2.59
Jimmy Dean Croissant Sandwiches or Egg Biscuit or Muffin, assorted varieties, Meal Size!, 4-ct, 13.6 to 18.4 oz box (Excluding D-Lights), save up to $5.33
Marie Callender's Dinners, assorted varieties, 8.5 to 19 oz box, (Excluding Pot Pies), save up to $2.71
Luigi's Real Italian Ice, assorted varieties, 16 to 24-oz pkg, save up to $3.49
Ray's New York Bagels, assorted varieties, 16 to 24 oz pkg, save up to $3.49
No Nonsense Sport Socks, assorted varieties, save up to $4.49
Kibbles 'n Bits Dog Fodd, assorted varieties, 3.6 to 4-lb bag, save up to $4.99
Dial or Tone Body Wash or Right Guard Body Wash, assorted varieties, 13.5 to 18-oz bottle, save up to $2.95
Publix Athletic Foot Cream, Antifungal, 1-oz pkg (Active Ingredient: Clotrimazole), save up to $7.99
Snickers Fun Size Snacks Big Bag or M&M's, 3 Musketeers, Milky Way, Twix, or Kids Favorites Mix, assorted varieties, 18.8 to 22.55 oz bag, save up to $6.59
Grab Bag Mix Candies, 92-ct 25.14-oz bag or Skittles Bite Size or Startburst/Skittles Original Fun Size Assortment, 22.3-oz bag, save up to $5.99
Kraft Traditional Caramels, 14-oz bag, save up to $2.69
Nestle Assorted Minis Chocolates or Miniatures Candy Bars or Butterfinger's Best Assortment, or Wonka: Monster Mix Ups or Spooky Nerds, 18 to 25-oz bag, save up to $4.99
Thanks to Slickdeals check back there for matchups.
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