Sunday, July 31, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Some recent Book reviews and First chapter peaks of some great Christian Books
On my other blog A Room without Books is Empty I have recently posted some reviews and first chapter peaks of some good books. Click on the titles below the covers and that will take you to the reviews.

Prayer Walk by JanetHolm McHenry

Someone to Watch Over Me by Michelle Stimpson

Summer Dream by Martha Rogers

Shadows on the Sand by Gail Roper
Any of these would make a great summer read.

Prayer Walk by JanetHolm McHenry

Someone to Watch Over Me by Michelle Stimpson

Summer Dream by Martha Rogers

Shadows on the Sand by Gail Roper
Any of these would make a great summer read.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Feeling inadequate - a confession
The world is a rough place to live nowadays. We women have enough telling us that we aren't perfect. If we aren't a size 2 we are over weight. If our house isn't perfectly clean then we are slobs. If our kids misbehave when they are small or make wrong choices when they are older then it is our fault.
We get enough of this stuff with out it coming from other women or even ourselves.
When I first started homeschooling I would buy the homeschooling magazines and read how other homeschoolers were doing it. You know the magazines, the ones with the family of 12 on the front cover all clean and shiny with matching outfits with the matching article inside telling you how they all get up so cheerfully and have their breakfast finished and all the chores done with no complaining by 7. I was lucky if my kids were up and ready for school by 10 never mind that they were still in there pj's and eating cereal while they did their math. And I only had three kids.
I find myself falling into that trap time and again but in different areas of my life. Just recently I found myself being trapped when I was reading other blogs. There are so many out there that write so eloquently and they draw such wonderful points from scripture. They can sound so deep no matter if they are writing about some profound point or how to make apple pie.
I am a simple woman. I draw strength from spending time with the Lord in the Bible and prayer. I don't expound very much (much to my husband's dismay). I take the Bible at face value and don't feel like you have to go into great theological debates to present the gospel to other's. Like one of our past pastor's said once I like the K.I.S.S. method. Keep It Simple Stupid!!
I found myself being trapped when it was implied recently by someone that because I have many interests that I must be lacking in my walk with the Lord. What that person didn't take into account was the many different things that I do that are done when others aren't around to witness it. I just finished the latest book by JimBob and Michelle Duggar (that's another post) In it they said that they listen to a recording of the Bible everynight so I have started doing that with my phone and the audio Bible I have on there. The only problem is getting the volume right so it's loud enough to hear but soft enough that I can go to sleep. I usually turn it off during the night sometime but it is pumping into my brain the whole time. In the morning while I am driving to where ever I happen to be walking that day I listen to Pilgrim's Progress (this is the current book my husband and I are listening to) for a half an hour (my audible app has a sleep feature that I can set it for 30 minutes). I will continue listening when I get to where I am walking. After that time is up I go through my scripture memory list a few times ( I also have an app for this that will read the list for me, yes it's computer voice but it is a good way for me to review my list). I listen to Beth Moore or Kay Arthur on my way home (my husband and I are currently listening to Kay Arthur speak about Matthew). All of this is done before 8 am without to many witness except for a few birds and squirrels. My other interests are more public like watching tv (not very much) watching movies, reading, blogging, and crafts of various types. So it may seem like I spend more time on other pursuits where in actuality I spend more time on spiritual things.
I found myself in the trap recently of thinking that I am not (wasn't) a very good parent because of some choices and mistakes that my adult children have made. I have to remind myself that they were taught right from wrong and it is their choice which way they choose. And they need to live with their choices. My Husband and I weren't perfect parents but we did what we thought best and to the best of our abilities and love our children no matter what they do (this in no way means that we condone some of their decisions).
I guess this is all to say that when you find yourself falling into one of these traps look at what you do in that area that is positive. If you can learn something from someone else then by all means do it and find a way to fit it into your life but do just that , make it yours not a copy of someone else. God made us each different, Wouldn't it be awfully dull if we were all the same.
We get enough of this stuff with out it coming from other women or even ourselves.
When I first started homeschooling I would buy the homeschooling magazines and read how other homeschoolers were doing it. You know the magazines, the ones with the family of 12 on the front cover all clean and shiny with matching outfits with the matching article inside telling you how they all get up so cheerfully and have their breakfast finished and all the chores done with no complaining by 7. I was lucky if my kids were up and ready for school by 10 never mind that they were still in there pj's and eating cereal while they did their math. And I only had three kids.
I find myself falling into that trap time and again but in different areas of my life. Just recently I found myself being trapped when I was reading other blogs. There are so many out there that write so eloquently and they draw such wonderful points from scripture. They can sound so deep no matter if they are writing about some profound point or how to make apple pie.
I am a simple woman. I draw strength from spending time with the Lord in the Bible and prayer. I don't expound very much (much to my husband's dismay). I take the Bible at face value and don't feel like you have to go into great theological debates to present the gospel to other's. Like one of our past pastor's said once I like the K.I.S.S. method. Keep It Simple Stupid!!
I found myself being trapped when it was implied recently by someone that because I have many interests that I must be lacking in my walk with the Lord. What that person didn't take into account was the many different things that I do that are done when others aren't around to witness it. I just finished the latest book by JimBob and Michelle Duggar (that's another post) In it they said that they listen to a recording of the Bible everynight so I have started doing that with my phone and the audio Bible I have on there. The only problem is getting the volume right so it's loud enough to hear but soft enough that I can go to sleep. I usually turn it off during the night sometime but it is pumping into my brain the whole time. In the morning while I am driving to where ever I happen to be walking that day I listen to Pilgrim's Progress (this is the current book my husband and I are listening to) for a half an hour (my audible app has a sleep feature that I can set it for 30 minutes). I will continue listening when I get to where I am walking. After that time is up I go through my scripture memory list a few times ( I also have an app for this that will read the list for me, yes it's computer voice but it is a good way for me to review my list). I listen to Beth Moore or Kay Arthur on my way home (my husband and I are currently listening to Kay Arthur speak about Matthew). All of this is done before 8 am without to many witness except for a few birds and squirrels. My other interests are more public like watching tv (not very much) watching movies, reading, blogging, and crafts of various types. So it may seem like I spend more time on other pursuits where in actuality I spend more time on spiritual things.
I found myself in the trap recently of thinking that I am not (wasn't) a very good parent because of some choices and mistakes that my adult children have made. I have to remind myself that they were taught right from wrong and it is their choice which way they choose. And they need to live with their choices. My Husband and I weren't perfect parents but we did what we thought best and to the best of our abilities and love our children no matter what they do (this in no way means that we condone some of their decisions).
I guess this is all to say that when you find yourself falling into one of these traps look at what you do in that area that is positive. If you can learn something from someone else then by all means do it and find a way to fit it into your life but do just that , make it yours not a copy of someone else. God made us each different, Wouldn't it be awfully dull if we were all the same.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Friday, July 15, 2011
Things I am Thankful for!!
Today my Nephew and his wife had their first child. His name is Evan Joshua.
I am thankful that my husband can sleep through just about everything. With him having to sleep during the day it is nice that I don't have to worry to much about disturbing him. I guess it's all those years sleeping in the truck.
I am thankful that Hannah passed her written test for her driver's permit.
This is a picture of her yesterday eating our celebration lunch of Kentucky Fried Chicken at Long's Park. Took her to an empty parking lot after this and she drove for the first time.
I am thankful that we live in an area that I could walk in a different place everyday for several weeks. I am really enjoying discovering new trails. Here are a few pictures of where I walked today.
I am thankful to live in a country where if I want to I can have someone else do the cooking. We are having Charlie's Chicken tonight. No cooking for Me!!
Those are just a few things I am thankful for. What are you thankful for?
I am thankful that my husband can sleep through just about everything. With him having to sleep during the day it is nice that I don't have to worry to much about disturbing him. I guess it's all those years sleeping in the truck.
I am thankful that Hannah passed her written test for her driver's permit.
This is a picture of her yesterday eating our celebration lunch of Kentucky Fried Chicken at Long's Park. Took her to an empty parking lot after this and she drove for the first time.
I am thankful that we live in an area that I could walk in a different place everyday for several weeks. I am really enjoying discovering new trails. Here are a few pictures of where I walked today.
I am thankful to live in a country where if I want to I can have someone else do the cooking. We are having Charlie's Chicken tonight. No cooking for Me!!
Those are just a few things I am thankful for. What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
What's Going on? Wednesday
We have been busy on and off recently. On Monday night a bunch of ladies from church got together to honor four young ladies in the church who had recenly graduated or turned sweet 16. Hannah was one of these. We had a good time with several of the ladies sharing bits of wisdom and one of the girl's grandmother giving a wonderful talk complete with props on following the recipe for life (the Bible). The other grandmother of this girl gave each of the girls a note with her favorite verses in it and encouraged them to memorize scripture.
It has bee really hot here the last couple of days and I haven't felt like walking. I did walk today and took some pictures.
Yes that is goose droppings on the sidewalk. It makes it very interesting to walk here. But It is so pretty!!
It has bee really hot here the last couple of days and I haven't felt like walking. I did walk today and took some pictures.
Yes that is goose droppings on the sidewalk. It makes it very interesting to walk here. But It is so pretty!!
Hannah had her physical for her drivers' permit so she just has to decide when she wants to go for her test. She is taking her time and making sure that she is ready which I believe is a good thing. She has always been our tentative one when it comes to things she is not sure about, she takes her time and feels things out.
We have recently discovered an new park that has a walking path beside a creek. It is a nice quiet place and you can go in the creek and wade if you so choose. We hope to continue to discover other great parks as there are alot located throughout Lancaster County. I will try to take pictures of the various trails as I explore them.
I have been watching some oldies but goodies lately.
Lost in Space. Bad acting and Bad special effects but good campy fun. Nothing to worry about here.
The Patty Duke Show Reunion Movie. I discovered The Patty Duke Show when I was a teenager on reruns. I always liked the whole concept of the show. Again good clean fun.
Beach Party with Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon. I was a bit surprised by this one as sex is mentioned quite often and the professor is even studying the teenage mating rituals. No one is actually sexually active but Frankie brings Dede to the beach so they can be alone. She wants him to think of her as a wife so she invites all their friends. Annette keeps her promise to Walt Disney and doesn't show her naval but there is plenty of bikinis around . Tthe one girl always wears some kind of outfit with fringe so when she dances it is swinging back and forth. The teenagers made out quite a bit. Not the innocent little movie you would think it would be.
I love Lucy. Always a Classic. this is a great clip.
I hope that everyone has a great day!!!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Our busy life
Sunday we went to church and then just came home to relax. Hannah went with her friend to a picnic that one of the families from church was hosting. We had planned on going to a local park to see the fireworks but since they saw fireworks on Saturday night and it was hot and I didn't really want to deal with the crowds we decided to stay home and do nothing. LOL.
On Monday we had a small cookout and then Dave and I went to a local park and walked the trail. The first place we went to we couldn't find the trail but we did find a covered bridge.
I hate the way I look in this picture. I have lost some weight and the pants are a bit loose. But I guess that is a good problem to have.
This is us on the trail.
I have been walking quite a bit lately. I have been discovering all the beautiful parks we have just within a short distance of our house and where I work. I walked a trail near my work this past week. I didn't walk the whole thing as it was five miles round trip but I did do half of it.
Dave and I just recently finished listening to the Bible and we have started listening to Pilgrim's Progress. I listen while I am walking. I also just recently read a book (am rereading now) a book about Prayerwalking. (click on the link to read the first chapter of the book) I plan to start doing that for the second half of my walk. I have started to wear a pedometer to track how many steps I walk a day. My goal right now is 5000. It is recommended that your take 10000 steps a day so I thought I would work my way up. I have been walking between 5000 and 8500 this past week.
I am still couponing but we have gotten to a level with most of our supplies that I don't need to buy much every week. I won't buy things just to be buying so either we need it or it's a really good buy. I find that I get better use of my coupons at the drug stores.
My Doctor was very pleased with my progress with the diabetes. All my numbers are within the range they should be and my blood pressure even went down to the normal level which it hasn't been in years. It is still a struggle everyday though trying to balance the food and everything. A great sight that I have found is Sparkpeople.com. I can keep track of my food, gloucose level and exercise all in one place. It's free and it's for anyone who wants to lose weight or just have a healthier lifestyle. Great Sight.
Well that's all for now. Hope everyone has a great day.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Disney Fix Saturday
I have been on a Disney movie kick over the last couple of days. It has been hot and humid (it is nicer today) and with my hubby's new schedule I have found myself with time to watch some movies. My hubby works nights now and usually gets home between 12 and 1. He then lays down to sleep and will sleep until supper or sometimes straight through till it's time to get up for work. He likes to have me around while he sleeps so I either read or do stuff on the computer. Thus the watching Disney movies. I am so thankful for our Netflix account. We have alot of movies also.
Any way this is what I have been watching.
Tangled. This is a retelling of Rapunzel. It was cute and I like it. The only thing I had a problem with was the idea that Rapunzel could bring someone back from the dead. Typical Disney fare.
Tron: Legacy. I watched Tron years ago and really don't remember much about it other than it wasn't one of my favorites. I did like this movie through. Again I wasn't thrilled with the giving of God like powers to the one character but I guess in a sense he was that world's "creator". A good action film that boys expecially would like.
And on instant play
Toy Story 3. Hannah and I went to see this last year and really like. I put it on my Instant Que and have been putting off watching it. I decided to watch it last night. It is one of those instances when a sequel wa as good as the original. Great Movie!!
Have a great Weekend and stay cool.
Any way this is what I have been watching.
Tangled. This is a retelling of Rapunzel. It was cute and I like it. The only thing I had a problem with was the idea that Rapunzel could bring someone back from the dead. Typical Disney fare.
Tron: Legacy. I watched Tron years ago and really don't remember much about it other than it wasn't one of my favorites. I did like this movie through. Again I wasn't thrilled with the giving of God like powers to the one character but I guess in a sense he was that world's "creator". A good action film that boys expecially would like.
And on instant play
Toy Story 3. Hannah and I went to see this last year and really like. I put it on my Instant Que and have been putting off watching it. I decided to watch it last night. It is one of those instances when a sequel wa as good as the original. Great Movie!!
Have a great Weekend and stay cool.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Movie Monday
These past couple of weeks have been just one thing after another. First my oldest daughter moved back home. So far so good. Then my husband started a new job. This is an adjustment as he basically works nights and gets home around lunch time. He needs to get his body clock into this new schedule.
Lastly I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I have been trying to learn what I can, watching what I eat. So far I have lowered my blood sugar but need to get it even better. I have lost 8 pounds and today I started an exercise routine. I had side effects to the medication that I was put on so we lowered the dose and so far so good.
This weekend was filled with movies.
I watched (my husband watched bits and pieces) (spoilers)
True Grit the remake. It was okay but there was quite a bit of violence that left nothing to the imagination. One outlaw got his fingers cut off. Glad that I got this from netflix and didn't see it in theaters. I much prefer the original starring John Wayne. Maybe I will see if it is on Netflix. OR if not I will look for it on TCM.
Hannah and I went to see:;
Thor. This was a good action adventure. I can see how it would appeal to boys but Hannah and i enjoyed it too. There was violence in this movie also but not as graphic. The battle scenes reminded me a bit of Lord of the Rings. The scenes taking place on earth were cute and humorous. Defnitely worth putting on your netflix list.
Hannah watched
My Girl
I told her she would cry and she did.
Hope everyone had a nice Father's Day. We got my husband a hammock (we had one a couple of years ago but someone stole it ).
Still couponing. Last week got $47 worth of stuff for 39 cents. I find that I do much better at the drugstores than at the grocery stores but every little bit helps. I usually save around 50 % or better.
Have a great day.
Lastly I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I have been trying to learn what I can, watching what I eat. So far I have lowered my blood sugar but need to get it even better. I have lost 8 pounds and today I started an exercise routine. I had side effects to the medication that I was put on so we lowered the dose and so far so good.
This weekend was filled with movies.
I watched (my husband watched bits and pieces) (spoilers)
True Grit the remake. It was okay but there was quite a bit of violence that left nothing to the imagination. One outlaw got his fingers cut off. Glad that I got this from netflix and didn't see it in theaters. I much prefer the original starring John Wayne. Maybe I will see if it is on Netflix. OR if not I will look for it on TCM.
Hannah and I went to see:;
Thor. This was a good action adventure. I can see how it would appeal to boys but Hannah and i enjoyed it too. There was violence in this movie also but not as graphic. The battle scenes reminded me a bit of Lord of the Rings. The scenes taking place on earth were cute and humorous. Defnitely worth putting on your netflix list.
Hannah watched
My Girl
I told her she would cry and she did.
Hope everyone had a nice Father's Day. We got my husband a hammock (we had one a couple of years ago but someone stole it ).
Still couponing. Last week got $47 worth of stuff for 39 cents. I find that I do much better at the drugstores than at the grocery stores but every little bit helps. I usually save around 50 % or better.
Have a great day.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Changes, Big and small
Over the next few weeks my family will be going through several changes.
One will be my husband changing jobs. He will be gone a bit more but the pay is better and the benefits are much better. We are use to him not being home all the time as that is the nature most of the time for trucking. Unfortunately the job that he has had for the las year that brought him home everyday did not pay quite enough and the benefits were not that great. He is staying on there as a casual driver and will work there occasionally. This past year has been both a struggle and a blessing. I have had to adjust to relinquishing the power over to him which is very difficult when I have been use to being the main decision maker here at home for about 20 years as he had been on the road. It has been nice having him home everyday. We have been able to start attending a church that we both really like. His new job may require him to be gone on Sundays once in awhile. Hannah and I will continue to go to church though. We have taken a good hard look at our finances and the cut out a few things that were not needed (there are still things that could be cut but we are proceding slowly). This year has been a growing experience for all of us.
Our oldest daughter will be moving back home.
One will be my husband changing jobs. He will be gone a bit more but the pay is better and the benefits are much better. We are use to him not being home all the time as that is the nature most of the time for trucking. Unfortunately the job that he has had for the las year that brought him home everyday did not pay quite enough and the benefits were not that great. He is staying on there as a casual driver and will work there occasionally. This past year has been both a struggle and a blessing. I have had to adjust to relinquishing the power over to him which is very difficult when I have been use to being the main decision maker here at home for about 20 years as he had been on the road. It has been nice having him home everyday. We have been able to start attending a church that we both really like. His new job may require him to be gone on Sundays once in awhile. Hannah and I will continue to go to church though. We have taken a good hard look at our finances and the cut out a few things that were not needed (there are still things that could be cut but we are proceding slowly). This year has been a growing experience for all of us.
Our oldest daughter will be moving back home.

She has been living in a bad situation for a while now and wants to get out of it so we decided to let her come home for a bit and save some money . At first she thought of it as a step back but in the long run it will be a step forward. So we will be converting the den into a bedroom for her (I am not giving up my library Ha Ha ) She will be moving in over the weekend.
Hannah will be finishing up the 10th grade. Her evalution is on June 7th so we will officially start our summer then. We usually take the whole month of July off then start up slowly in August. Usually by then she has gotten bored and it is to hot outside so a perfect time to start. I cannot believe that she will graduate in 2 years.
I have started an inventory of the things we have in the freezer and the pantry. We have our big freezer inventoried and have two shelves in the pantry done. Now the only thing I have to remember to do is to mark things off when I use them and mark things down when I add them LOL. I am slowly doing this because of everything else going on.
When I made my stops at the drugstores this week for the deals, at one store the cashier made a comment after I used my coupons that I had saved alot of money then she was amazed when my receipt printed and I had more coupons print out than what I spent. At another one I got into a conversation with the clerk while checking out about couponing.
I learned something this week when I went to the grocery store. I did all my big shopping last week, but one of the local grocery stores was running a special were they had four coupons that doubled $1 coupons. Our stores around here usually only double up to a dollar (if you have a coupon for 75 cents they will take off 25 cents more) so I wanted to get in on this deal. You had to have an order of $15 dollars so I got out my coupons and tried to figure out how I could make the most of this. I hade it figured out perfectly. But when I got to the store they were out of one of the items I wanted (it just so happened to be the best deal too ) So I had to refigure everything. I learned that I need to come with several things to back me up if something doesn't work out.
Have a great day!!!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
couponing ( again)
I have been doing quite abit of research on how to do the best with my coupons. Here are just a few things that have been on my mind.
First of all do not think that you will be able to go into a store with a bunch of coupons for an item that is on sale and get them all for free like on the show Extreme Couponing. They order ahead for that show so there is enough product on hand plus the stores bend their own coupon policies a bit so that all the coupons ring through. Make sure you check out your stores coupon policy. Do they double or triple coupons? If they do, up to what amount do they double or triple. Also is there a limit to how many they will double or triple and how many like coupons will they double or triple. Even if you think you know your store's policy it is a good idea to check it again and maybe even print it out. Some stores are changing their policies in retaliation to the Extreme Couponing show so be informed.
Be ethical couponers!!! Don't commit coupon fraud. Make sure you use your coupons for the correct item, correct size and quantity (there is an accusation against one of featured people on the show of coupon fraud). Don't empty the shelves just because you have coupons for something. On the show one lady is shown clearing the shelves of an item that nobody in her family really even liked. Leave some for other people. Sales usually run in 12 week cycles so keep that in mind when buying things. Will your family really go through 40 deodorants in 12 weeks? Think of other people that want to get in on the deal too. I try not to buy the last of a product even if I do have a coupon for it (I will take the last one if it is the only one available). Some people use coupon clipping services, I am not to sure if this is legit as all coupons state that they are void if bought or sold. Also if a store turns in a bunch of coupons that have been "gang cut" (cut at the same time) the mf can turn down the redeemption of them. My rule if I can't cut it myself I don't need it. Just me, You need to make up your own minds about what you think.
Don't steal the coupons out of papers in the store!! This past weekend we bought two papers and neither one had coupons in them so we took them back. The clerk at the store said that there were no coupons in any of the papers that they had, different papers all had the coupons taken out of them.
Share your stockpile. I have only been doing this full force for about a month now and I have already started getting a bit of a stockpile. I am at a level where I am comfortable in the area of toothpaste and toothbrushes, as an example, but I still will pick up those items if I can get them for free or cheap. I then will rotate my stock and put however many that I bought aside to donate to a local homeless shelter. We hope to be able to donate a small bit every month. I am going to be picking up baby items also to donate. A local drugstore had a good deal on formula recently and I could have gotten some to donate but I hadn't cut out the coupons. I will be eyeing my coupons differently from now on and cutting those that I can use for donation items. Along the same lines as I mentioned above, just because you are getting something for donation don't clear shelves, maybe the next person wants to buy some for a donation also, you never know.
My total amount that I have listed in sidebar is really misleading. I use store loyalty cards, coupons, and rewards printed on the end of my receipts to reach that number. Last week I bought $65 worth of product and payed .75 cents. Now that really wasn't all coupons. I used sales, coupons, reward coupons, survey rewards and store coupons. I need to replenish my reward coupons so my percentage won't be that great this week but next week I should be able to roll the savings.
I don't do all the coupon matchups myself. There are plenty of websites that do all the work for you. I haven't found to many that have the grocery stores in our area but there are matchups for the drugstores, Target, Walmart, KMart etc. Some sites that I like are Couponing to Disney , Coupon Mom, and A Full cup. There are even some videos on Youtube that take you though the stores and show you all the deals.
Organization. One things about couponing, organization is the key. Most of the people recommend having a coupon binder and there are even tutorials both on blogs and youtube on how to make your own. I started one but I started to find for me that it got to be to much work. So I switched to using envelopes. I have envelopes for each category and an envelope for each store ( I keep them in a plastic bin that I bought for $1) . When I cut out my coupons I file them in the envelope until I am ready to match (I also put them in order of expiration so I am sure to use the ones that expire first). On Sunday's I cut and file my coupons then make out my list for RiteAid and pull any coupons I have for this store (I always try to go to Rite Aid on Monday Mornings close to their opening time). Monday I make out my grocery lists (I go to two different stores) and I have just started making out lists for Walgreen's and CVS. Since we get paid every two weeks I only do this every other week. The off week I will go if I can get really good deals and can pay for most of the purchase with coupons and rewards etc. Little out of pocket. Anyway, after I make out my lists I pull any coupons I need and then put the list and the coupons in the store envelope. Then on Tuesday I make out my menu for the two weeks make note of any special things that might be coming up (like in the next two weeks our church is having a picnic and Memorial Day ) I keep in mind what I already have in my pantry/freezer and what is on sale. I then add anything I need to my grocery list (I add them to the grocery store that gives me the most gas rewards so my total will be more there). Then on my way home from work on Thursday morning I do all my grocery shopping and drugstore shopping. I am going to start putting a cooler in my trunk to put my cold stuff in because the weather is getting warmer. All together this probably takes me about three hours of prep time before shopping , that's about 1 1/2 hrs a week. But last week I made 43.33 for that time (in savings). It probably takes me anywhere from 1/2hr to 45 minutes in each grocery store for shopping. The drugstores no more that 15 minutes. So about 2 1/2 hrs shopping every two weeks. So for 5 1/5 hours of time My savings was 64.57 an hour. Not a bad total. I know that alot of people don't have that much time to devote to couponing. I know some people have more time. I think though any thing you do is great because you are saving money.
What to do with all the expired coupons? I have only been doing this for abut a month like I stated before but already I have a bunch of coupons that will be expiring before our next pay. I didn't want to throw them away because I feel like I am throughing away money. Did you know that the military bases take donations of expired coupons (cannot be over 6 months)? Go Here to adopt a base. Make sure you adopt one that is available. I plan on sending all my coupons at least once a month.
To wrap up this already too long post. I have made a deal with myself. I am not going to become obsessed with this whole thing. I am not going to become a hoarder. I will be happy with myself if i am able to print one coupon or email for one free sample a day. I figure that even alittle adds up to alot. I plan on writing a few more posts in the future about some more specific things.
Have a Great Day!!
First of all do not think that you will be able to go into a store with a bunch of coupons for an item that is on sale and get them all for free like on the show Extreme Couponing. They order ahead for that show so there is enough product on hand plus the stores bend their own coupon policies a bit so that all the coupons ring through. Make sure you check out your stores coupon policy. Do they double or triple coupons? If they do, up to what amount do they double or triple. Also is there a limit to how many they will double or triple and how many like coupons will they double or triple. Even if you think you know your store's policy it is a good idea to check it again and maybe even print it out. Some stores are changing their policies in retaliation to the Extreme Couponing show so be informed.
Be ethical couponers!!! Don't commit coupon fraud. Make sure you use your coupons for the correct item, correct size and quantity (there is an accusation against one of featured people on the show of coupon fraud). Don't empty the shelves just because you have coupons for something. On the show one lady is shown clearing the shelves of an item that nobody in her family really even liked. Leave some for other people. Sales usually run in 12 week cycles so keep that in mind when buying things. Will your family really go through 40 deodorants in 12 weeks? Think of other people that want to get in on the deal too. I try not to buy the last of a product even if I do have a coupon for it (I will take the last one if it is the only one available). Some people use coupon clipping services, I am not to sure if this is legit as all coupons state that they are void if bought or sold. Also if a store turns in a bunch of coupons that have been "gang cut" (cut at the same time) the mf can turn down the redeemption of them. My rule if I can't cut it myself I don't need it. Just me, You need to make up your own minds about what you think.
Don't steal the coupons out of papers in the store!! This past weekend we bought two papers and neither one had coupons in them so we took them back. The clerk at the store said that there were no coupons in any of the papers that they had, different papers all had the coupons taken out of them.
Share your stockpile. I have only been doing this full force for about a month now and I have already started getting a bit of a stockpile. I am at a level where I am comfortable in the area of toothpaste and toothbrushes, as an example, but I still will pick up those items if I can get them for free or cheap. I then will rotate my stock and put however many that I bought aside to donate to a local homeless shelter. We hope to be able to donate a small bit every month. I am going to be picking up baby items also to donate. A local drugstore had a good deal on formula recently and I could have gotten some to donate but I hadn't cut out the coupons. I will be eyeing my coupons differently from now on and cutting those that I can use for donation items. Along the same lines as I mentioned above, just because you are getting something for donation don't clear shelves, maybe the next person wants to buy some for a donation also, you never know.
My total amount that I have listed in sidebar is really misleading. I use store loyalty cards, coupons, and rewards printed on the end of my receipts to reach that number. Last week I bought $65 worth of product and payed .75 cents. Now that really wasn't all coupons. I used sales, coupons, reward coupons, survey rewards and store coupons. I need to replenish my reward coupons so my percentage won't be that great this week but next week I should be able to roll the savings.
I don't do all the coupon matchups myself. There are plenty of websites that do all the work for you. I haven't found to many that have the grocery stores in our area but there are matchups for the drugstores, Target, Walmart, KMart etc. Some sites that I like are Couponing to Disney , Coupon Mom, and A Full cup. There are even some videos on Youtube that take you though the stores and show you all the deals.
Organization. One things about couponing, organization is the key. Most of the people recommend having a coupon binder and there are even tutorials both on blogs and youtube on how to make your own. I started one but I started to find for me that it got to be to much work. So I switched to using envelopes. I have envelopes for each category and an envelope for each store ( I keep them in a plastic bin that I bought for $1) . When I cut out my coupons I file them in the envelope until I am ready to match (I also put them in order of expiration so I am sure to use the ones that expire first). On Sunday's I cut and file my coupons then make out my list for RiteAid and pull any coupons I have for this store (I always try to go to Rite Aid on Monday Mornings close to their opening time). Monday I make out my grocery lists (I go to two different stores) and I have just started making out lists for Walgreen's and CVS. Since we get paid every two weeks I only do this every other week. The off week I will go if I can get really good deals and can pay for most of the purchase with coupons and rewards etc. Little out of pocket. Anyway, after I make out my lists I pull any coupons I need and then put the list and the coupons in the store envelope. Then on Tuesday I make out my menu for the two weeks make note of any special things that might be coming up (like in the next two weeks our church is having a picnic and Memorial Day ) I keep in mind what I already have in my pantry/freezer and what is on sale. I then add anything I need to my grocery list (I add them to the grocery store that gives me the most gas rewards so my total will be more there). Then on my way home from work on Thursday morning I do all my grocery shopping and drugstore shopping. I am going to start putting a cooler in my trunk to put my cold stuff in because the weather is getting warmer. All together this probably takes me about three hours of prep time before shopping , that's about 1 1/2 hrs a week. But last week I made 43.33 for that time (in savings). It probably takes me anywhere from 1/2hr to 45 minutes in each grocery store for shopping. The drugstores no more that 15 minutes. So about 2 1/2 hrs shopping every two weeks. So for 5 1/5 hours of time My savings was 64.57 an hour. Not a bad total. I know that alot of people don't have that much time to devote to couponing. I know some people have more time. I think though any thing you do is great because you are saving money.
What to do with all the expired coupons? I have only been doing this for abut a month like I stated before but already I have a bunch of coupons that will be expiring before our next pay. I didn't want to throw them away because I feel like I am throughing away money. Did you know that the military bases take donations of expired coupons (cannot be over 6 months)? Go Here to adopt a base. Make sure you adopt one that is available. I plan on sending all my coupons at least once a month.
To wrap up this already too long post. I have made a deal with myself. I am not going to become obsessed with this whole thing. I am not going to become a hoarder. I will be happy with myself if i am able to print one coupon or email for one free sample a day. I figure that even alittle adds up to alot. I plan on writing a few more posts in the future about some more specific things.
Have a Great Day!!
Labels:
A full cup,
Couping to Disney,
Coupon Mom,
Couponing,
expired coupons
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Spent a wonderful day with my Hubby
Yesterday was our 26th wedding Anniversary. Time sure has flown.
David texted me at work in the morning and instructed me to go to a local McDonalds. When I got there I was instructed to go in and buy a coffee and ask for Melissa. she gave me an envelope with futher intrustions to go to a Turkey Hill. Once I got there I was intructed to go in and buy a tea and ask for Danette. She gave me another envelope which instructed me to go to a local park and look for a swing. Once I got there David was standing by the swing just like the host of Amazing Race. He knows I like that show so he sent me on my on little race. He told me then that he had taken the whole day off work, (this is a treat as we don't get to spend the day together to often). So we were able to spend a nice leisurely time together swing on the double swing and then we took a walk around the pond.
Below are pictures of the ducklings and Goslings we saw on our walk.
The daddy Goose was really upset with us and thought we got entirely to close to his babies. He started hissing and honk and bobbing his head.
David texted me at work in the morning and instructed me to go to a local McDonalds. When I got there I was instructed to go in and buy a coffee and ask for Melissa. she gave me an envelope with futher intrustions to go to a Turkey Hill. Once I got there I was intructed to go in and buy a tea and ask for Danette. She gave me another envelope which instructed me to go to a local park and look for a swing. Once I got there David was standing by the swing just like the host of Amazing Race. He knows I like that show so he sent me on my on little race. He told me then that he had taken the whole day off work, (this is a treat as we don't get to spend the day together to often). So we were able to spend a nice leisurely time together swing on the double swing and then we took a walk around the pond.
Below are pictures of the ducklings and Goslings we saw on our walk.
The daddy Goose was really upset with us and thought we got entirely to close to his babies. He started hissing and honk and bobbing his head.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Time, being good stewards and fun
As You know I have started really putting an effort into saving money especially with coupons. I was reading an article in one of the many newsletters I get about how being frugal (we like to call this stewardship) is not a one size fits all type of thing. Some people are willing to pay extra for something and maybe cut costs in another area.
As I think of what I have done to change things in the last few weeks I thought I would share a bit.
Aldi's use to be our main grocery store. That was until the gas prices started going up. To make a trip to Aldi's I would have to make an extra trip into Lancaster which is more gas. By shopping at two of the main grocery stores in the area that are on my way home and open when I go home I save the gas plus by using coupons, sales, buy one get one offers and 10 for $10 offers I can get about the same amount of food that I got from Aldi's (the produce is better also). It does take alittle more planning than a trip to Aldi's but it is worth it as far as I am concerned. Also if I really want something from Aldi's I can have my hubby stop by sometime on his way home from his work as he doesn't work to far away and comes home when they are open.
Being good stewards with what we are given is one of the things my hubby and I are really striving for. We have struggled our whole married life with our finances. Hopefully some of the habits we are starting to form will take hold and help in this department. In the process with the extra that I am able to get from couponing we hope to donate to help others.
Having fun, To me it is fun tracking down the deals and getting the most for the money we spend. Yesterday by using coupons, getting things on sale and loyalty card I was able to get $45 worth of products for 67 cents. And I have only really been doing this for about a month. And it was all stuff that we will use eventually and that won't expire (except for the Twizzlers but again My son works for them so ...) Do I have stuff for years down the road? No but we are probably good for about six months in the household products department and health and beauty department. I have started to put a few things aside to donate as I will continue to get it if I can for free or very cheap. As far as food is concerned I think we are probably good for about a month. I would like to build this up to at least a three month supply. The thing with food is that it used alot faster than the other stuff so it will take longer to stock up. But for now my small chest freezer is full and my pantry is well supplied.
Just like I always say with homeschooling, it's not for everyone and it's not for every stage of life. For now though couponing seems to be working for us.
I have added a little summary type thing in the left sidebar that I will try to keep up date listing how much i have saved to date and how much that is percentage wise. Thanks to my 99% drugstore buy yesterday my percentage jumped quite a bit. But you know if I was able just to save a bit I would consider it a success because every little bit helps. One thing I learned when we started homeschooling is not to judge your success by others. The same is true of saving, Set a goal for yourself and try to achieve that. Start small and work your way up. If you don't achieve the goal when you want just reevaluate and start again. Just like in the tortoise and the hare, slow and steady wins the race. Ok that's enough cliches for now.
Have a great day!!
As I think of what I have done to change things in the last few weeks I thought I would share a bit.
Aldi's use to be our main grocery store. That was until the gas prices started going up. To make a trip to Aldi's I would have to make an extra trip into Lancaster which is more gas. By shopping at two of the main grocery stores in the area that are on my way home and open when I go home I save the gas plus by using coupons, sales, buy one get one offers and 10 for $10 offers I can get about the same amount of food that I got from Aldi's (the produce is better also). It does take alittle more planning than a trip to Aldi's but it is worth it as far as I am concerned. Also if I really want something from Aldi's I can have my hubby stop by sometime on his way home from his work as he doesn't work to far away and comes home when they are open.
Being good stewards with what we are given is one of the things my hubby and I are really striving for. We have struggled our whole married life with our finances. Hopefully some of the habits we are starting to form will take hold and help in this department. In the process with the extra that I am able to get from couponing we hope to donate to help others.
Having fun, To me it is fun tracking down the deals and getting the most for the money we spend. Yesterday by using coupons, getting things on sale and loyalty card I was able to get $45 worth of products for 67 cents. And I have only really been doing this for about a month. And it was all stuff that we will use eventually and that won't expire (except for the Twizzlers but again My son works for them so ...) Do I have stuff for years down the road? No but we are probably good for about six months in the household products department and health and beauty department. I have started to put a few things aside to donate as I will continue to get it if I can for free or very cheap. As far as food is concerned I think we are probably good for about a month. I would like to build this up to at least a three month supply. The thing with food is that it used alot faster than the other stuff so it will take longer to stock up. But for now my small chest freezer is full and my pantry is well supplied.
Just like I always say with homeschooling, it's not for everyone and it's not for every stage of life. For now though couponing seems to be working for us.
I have added a little summary type thing in the left sidebar that I will try to keep up date listing how much i have saved to date and how much that is percentage wise. Thanks to my 99% drugstore buy yesterday my percentage jumped quite a bit. But you know if I was able just to save a bit I would consider it a success because every little bit helps. One thing I learned when we started homeschooling is not to judge your success by others. The same is true of saving, Set a goal for yourself and try to achieve that. Start small and work your way up. If you don't achieve the goal when you want just reevaluate and start again. Just like in the tortoise and the hare, slow and steady wins the race. Ok that's enough cliches for now.
Have a great day!!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Mother's Day
My Mother's Day was a good day. We started the day off by going to church which was good as usual.
Then when we got home My eldest Daughter gave me a movie night gift. Two Microwave popcorn tubs, two sodas, a bag of Flips (chocolate covered pretzels) and a dvd.
My son came alittle later and gave me some realy pretty flowers. He got me ones that I can plant. I like flowers but cut ones die so quickly so I much prefer the ones I can plant and enjoy longer.
My youngest Daughter and and My Hubby gave me the gift of making luch, and cleaning up. My daughter wanted to wait on me but I kept forgetting and did alot of stuff myself.
I had a GREAT MOTHER'S DAY.
Then when we got home My eldest Daughter gave me a movie night gift. Two Microwave popcorn tubs, two sodas, a bag of Flips (chocolate covered pretzels) and a dvd.
My son came alittle later and gave me some realy pretty flowers. He got me ones that I can plant. I like flowers but cut ones die so quickly so I much prefer the ones I can plant and enjoy longer.
My youngest Daughter and and My Hubby gave me the gift of making luch, and cleaning up. My daughter wanted to wait on me but I kept forgetting and did alot of stuff myself.
I had a GREAT MOTHER'S DAY.
Movie Monday - Spencer's Mountain
This is the movie that inspired the Walton's. My Hubby kept comparing it to the Tv Show. I thought it was a good movie. Some swearing but otherwise a great movie!. Stars Henry Fonda and Maureen O'Hara
Sunday, May 8, 2011
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