Insomniac Scrapbook Theater

50% Off EVERY ITEM in my Etsy shop.

2011-06-13T19:41:00.002-05:00

The title pretty much says it all. Use code 50percentOFF at checkout for immediate savings.
This sale ends soon. Stop by. Tell your friends. Do some birthday gift or early Christmas shopping. Help spread the word. A sale this amazing doesn't come around very often as I am taking losses because honestly, I really need the cash right now. Thank you and come see me.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/KristieGK?ref=si_shop

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Is this thing still on?

2010-10-23T05:45:00.002-05:00

Does any one come to my blog anymore? Not that you'd have a reason to. I haven't blogged in almost a year! I guess I lost interest in blogging when I joined Facebook. Even now I'm not sure what to blog about.
2010 has been a rough year for our family. Lots of health problems. Battles with depression and so on. But, somehow in spite of all that I've managed to stay moderately sane by continuing to create jewelry. It has helped me to distract my mind. I guess that is all for now.

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Christmas 2009

2010-01-07T22:13:00.003-05:00

Christmas 2009

My new video.

2010-01-07T21:19:00.001-05:00

Video

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Promoted!

2010-01-07T02:35:00.002-05:00

Blessings abound. Chris got the news a few days ago that he is being promoted. I can't remember what the position is called but it is the highest position in the company...without being one of the actual owners. He has received the most promotions in the fastest time ever in the history of this company. He went from low man on the totem pole to highest ranking in only 3.5 years. They have guys that have been with the company 8 years or more that still haven't shown they are worthy or capable of being in positions of more authority. Yes, I am very proud of him. He also got his OSHA certification, which I am sure helped with the promotion decision.

The reason this makes me happy is because it means he *should be home more, salary pay instead of hourly so no more weeks of missed paychecks. Plus, when he does have to go to oversee a job site he just has to make an appearance and come right back home. We shall see how this pans out after he has held the position for a while. But for now I am hopeful. Hopeful of having my husband back.

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It has been a while.

2009-11-30T02:18:00.002-05:00

Wow, it has been a while since I last blogged. Sorry about that. Facebook seems to be the place to "hang out" nowadays so that is where I've been doing all my updates.
But, for anyone interested I'll try to do a short-ish update here.

Chris has been gone longer and longer at work each time he leaves. Right now his company is under a 3 YEAR contract with the military. For us as a family that basically means he is only home for literally a couple of days every couple of months. It's hard!

I'm still doing the etsy shop thing and try to get back in to scrapping, though I am finding that I enjoy making little albums better than making layouts. Maybe that is what I need to make my mom for Christmas this year. She is so very hard to shop for.

The boys are growing in to men faster than lightening. Actually, Alex is a man now. He will be 22 in March. Caleb will be 16 in 16 days!! Right now he is ALL about cars and especially his car. He wants to fix and improve everything he can on it. Most of his Christmas gifts this year revolve around mechanic tools and car guy stuff.

I guess that is all for now. I hope everyone had a relaxing Thanksgiving.

Now back to finish decorating the house for Christmas. =)

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It is getting closer...

2009-10-07T04:34:00.003-05:00

Just about time to start thinking about those Christmas lists. I know most are probably scaling back this year what with the crappy economy right now. I just want to put it out there that if anyone on your list is a jewelry fiend, I hope you will come to my etsy shop and consider some things I have listed. I have layaway, I happily do reserves for two weeks, and if you are dying to have something I will negotiate.

Children and Babies

2009-09-26T14:35:00.004-05:00

How can I put this without sounding heartless???

I'm not a mean person. I'm not a child hater or anything like that. But sometimes I feel like I live in a world where I am the only one who's heart doesn't skip a beat over a photograph of a baby, swoon over the freshly bathed smell of a newborn, or get weepy thinking about "your" child's first day of kindergarten.
I don't think it's cute when you catch your kid playing in makeup. I don't think it is awesome that your kid knows that 1+5=6 at the tender age of 2. And honestly, I really could not care less that you had a baby. Good for you, I guess, and I'm glad it is happy and healthy and all that. I just don't think it's the greatest thing to ever happen in the history of childbirth.
Again, not because I'm a mean, cold-hearted person. I'm really not. I'm just WAY past that point in my life. Truth be told I never once saw a baby and felt the urge to have more myself.

And before you start thinking I am talking about someone specific, I am not. I am talking in general. Life.
Every few months someone has a baby and everyone and their grandmother makes such a fuss. I would never be rude and say WHOOP DE DO! If you are happy then I am happy for you, silently, and that would be it.

I thought that when I reached 36 I would finally have friends that were finished having kids and moving on with the next phase of their lives. Women I could talk to about something other than what their kids did that was so darn cute.
Or how you have over extended all of your free time by signing your kids up for little league, ballet, and whatnot to the point that you are exhausted all. the. time!

I had my kids when I was 15 and 20. They are now 21 and (almost) 16. I can't relate to 2am breastfeeding, your kid biting another kid in preschool, your son farting out loud in church, or your daughter picking out the perfect dress for her 8th grade banquet.

I guess what I am trying to say is that I'm ready to "play" with the grown up mommies. Women who have their own identity. Women who's lives aren't 100% children's channels 24/7, and women who aren't dying to be grandmothers right away. Women in the middle is what I can relate to. Your kids can take care of themselves and you can make conversation on several topics that do not include kids. Am I really the only woman alive that is fulfilled by just being me? That doesn't need to have a baby or talk about kids all the time to feel justified? Aren't we about so much more than changing diapers? Isn't there a point in time between having young kids and before the grand babies come along that women enjoy? Is it really selfish to love that "free" time in your life to not be needed all. the. time?

OK, I am done talking about kids for the next few years. Let's talk shopping, marriage, hobbies, lets gossip, take a drive, make dinner reservations, go to a nightclub and act a fool. Anything!~ I know you are a mom, but what else are you? WHO else are you? Do you even know?

Ho Hum

2009-09-19T18:54:00.003-05:00

Today has just been one of those slow, boring days for me. I have plenty I need to do but just not much of anything I want to do. I'm so behind on filing away my coupons that it's beyond ridiculous. When I do finally begin to put them away it is going to take several hours. I like having all my coupons with me when I shop, but I HATE the extra work that comes with the binder method. Some days I miss just dating the front of the inserts and tossing them in my box.

And the winner is...

2009-08-30T22:22:00.003-05:00

We had 20 entries and the Random Number Generator picked entry # 10
Just Jen.
Just Jen said...

You already know that I love it so pick ME!! :)
I have to say that the word verification below says "boxit" which means box it up and send it to me ;)

Congratulations, Jen!!! I have your address. Watch your mail. :)

Thanks to everyone that entered.

A Quick Giveaway

2009-08-29T14:04:00.004-05:00

Just because I'm in the mood. :) It's a large, no, LARGE pink crystal with two Coin pearl accents. 19.5" long, not including drop length of the pink crystal which is 1 3/4".

To enter just comment on this post. MAKE SURE I have a way to contact you if you are the winner. If I can't locate the winner I will pick a different #.

I'm going to let the random number generator pick the winner tomorrow night (Sunday Aug. 30th) some time between 9 and midnight EST.

OK. Ready, Set, GO!

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

2009-08-15T21:28:00.002-05:00

My Creations A new video for you to enjoy. :)

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Wondering where I've been?

2009-08-13T20:20:00.006-05:00

I know you all must be "dying" to know why I haven't been updating as much lately. The truth is I've been uber busy! My etsy shop is doing well (YAY) and I've also joined Facebook and spending a lot of time there. Well, between laundry, dishes, dinners, and LIFE, that is.

Don't forget to check in at my other blog Hip to Clip as I try to keep you guys in the know about the best freebie deals to be had.

And now for some new listings. Yes, I know it's not time for Christmas stuff yet. But the listing in etsy go for 4 months. And since I wanted them out of the shop BEFORE Christmas, they had to be listed now.

☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

And the Winner of the July Giveaway Is...

2009-07-31T00:46:00.003-05:00

The True Random Number Generator chose Ani!! With post #30.
Ani, I will be contacting you for your mailing address. Congratulations and I hope you will enjoy your winnings. =)

Deep Fried Macaroni and Cheese

2009-07-29T21:31:00.005-05:00

I never had it before. Never made it before. That is until tonight.
I decided to give it a try and we like it. Like we need one more bad food to love. lol
Have you ever had deep fried macaroni?

The Shop

2009-07-25T20:40:00.009-05:00

Have you been in my etsy shop lately? You should come see all the new stuff. Here's a sneak peek at some of my newest items.

Where have I been?!

2009-07-24T05:17:00.003-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted lately. There just hasn't been much to tell. I've just been keeping busy making new stuff for my etsy shop and wishing Chris was here. He has been in New Orleans for a month now.

My youngest is ready to go test for his drivers permit and I really wish Chris could be here to take care of that. I just feel like it's one of those milestones where a young man needs his father. I feel like they are both missing out on a lot. I feel like I am missing out on a husband. But, I didn't blog to start spreading my loneliness around. It is what it is, ya know?

Speaking of the youngest...Caleb has been working with his uncle in his mechanic garage. He started going with him just to have something to do to pass time. He also loves to fix things. Next thing you know he is getting up every day at 5am to leave and making a little money doing small repairs. So now I spend my days missing Caleb too. It won't be long before he makes his own way in the world. It's a good thing and a sad thing all rolled in to one.

I guess that's all for now. It's Friday so I guess I will leave you with wishes for a nice weekend. =)

Made for eachother.

2009-07-17T00:59:00.004-05:00

Made at two different times, months apart. Then I listed the earrings in my etsy shop yesterday and it hit me, these two pieces go great together! Both are made with peridot and blue apatite gemstones. How cool! Almost makes me rethink selling them. lol

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Pixie Blossoms

2009-07-12T18:53:00.003-05:00

Named so because I couldn't think of anything else to call them! LOL
Blue and clear Swarovski crystal earrings made to look like flowers. Just listed in my etsy shop.

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Preeeety

2009-07-11T19:41:00.003-05:00

Does anyone need a pair of sterling silver crystal quartz earrings? They will match anything and everything.
If so you can get them HERE. Just listed!

Decisions

2009-07-11T12:22:00.005-05:00

EDIT: I decided to list them on Etsy.
I have all these beautiful novelty yarns/fibers that I've been holding on to for quite a while now. They were very popular in scrapbooking at one time and I joined a ton of fiber swaps to get this collection.
But now I find that they are taking up space rather than being loved and used, so I am trying to decide if I really want to mess with listing them on ebay or not. It's times like these I wish etsy got more traffic!

Repurposed from a sewing pattern.

2009-07-10T19:45:00.002-05:00

I just made this this morning. Before it was a flower it was a McCall's dress pattern from 1990. As in a sewing pattern! How cool is that! It has over 30 layers of the dress pattern and I darkened the papers with liquid chalk ink. It also has been lightly stiffened to help it keep shape.
Ain't it purdy?! :) It's also for sale.

I need an assistant!

2009-07-09T20:07:00.004-05:00

I love making stuff for my Etsy shop but I absolutely loathe all the time it takes to make great photos of the items, then all the photo editing and getting them to the proper size, write descriptions, file categories, and all that listing jazz.

Like now I have a dozen or so rag style stockings I need to get listed and a bunch of other Christmas themed items I've made over the past few months. (I want to list now so that they will expire just after Christmas).

Anyway, I put my creations away after I make them. So in order to list them I have to drag it all back out, set a stage, etc. It takes too many hours logged in front of the computer to get it all listed.

I wish I had an assistant to do the listings so that I could just enjoy being creative. lol

Words you can live by

2009-07-09T02:27:00.002-05:00

I thought some of my bloggy friends might like these following statements. =)

*Man's way leads to a hopeless end--God's way leads to endless hope.

*A lot of kneeling will keep you in good standing.

*He who kneels before God can stand before anyone.

*In the sentence of life, the devil may be a comma--but never let him be the period.

*Don't put a question mark where God puts a period.

*When praying, don't give God instructions, just report for duty.

*We don't change God's message-- His message changes us.

Don't Forget...

2009-07-06T01:58:00.000-05:00

To enter my jewelry GIVEAWAY.

Winner drawn on July 31st.

Happy 4th and Ryan's Giveaway announcement.

2009-07-03T18:03:00.004-05:00

Happy 4th of July, everyone!

Also, my friend Ryan

is having a great giveaway on his blog as well. These patriotic fabrics are just one of several lots he is offering. Hop over there and get yourself entered to win!

New Giveaway!!!!

2009-06-30T19:52:00.003-05:00

One winner will get both sets! One is a pink Prehnite bracelet and earrings. The other is a light green Jade bracelet and earrings with freshwater pearls.

There are a few ways to enter and a few ways to be entered more than once.
Here's how:

1. Post here leaving a comment.
2. Tell me what your favorite item in my etsy shop is.
3. Post my giveaway on your blog, facebook, twitter, or other accounts and post the link(s) here.
4. Promote my etsy shop on your blog, facebook, or twitter. (Other than the giveaway announcement.)
5. Follow my blog.
6. Any purchases made in my etsy shop also receives an entry, though purchase is NOT necessary and does not increase your chances of winning.
7. If you already own some of my jewelry and link me to a picture of yourself wearing it you'll get an additional entry.
8. Send a friend to my shop and if they purchase something you'll get an additional entry. (You must let me know who you sent once they make a purchase, so that I know who to give credit to).

I will draw the winning name on July 31st, 2009.
*Make sure you leave your contact information so that I can notify you if you are the winner.*

Ready...Set..................GO! =)

Shop Talk

2009-06-29T18:51:00.004-05:00

I need to raise about $200. Along with several other things I'm doing to raise the money I just now slashed prices in my Etsy shop. Yes, I'm taking huge losses but I gotta prioritize right now.

Solid sterling silver earrings. Reduced from $12.82 to $5

Or these gemstone pendants for only $6

If you know of someone that is looking for a birthday, anniversary, or any kind of gift to give please mention my etsy shop to them.

My new quilted rag bag.

2009-06-27T16:01:00.008-05:00

These are the fabrics I used to make the rag bag out of. I like how happy the colors are. I am so bad to always chose neutral colors to be "safe", but I wanted to work outside of my comfort zone for a change. I love how it turned out.

Just a shot of the side and bottom. I made it rectangular just like the other one.

A close-up of the fabrics and stitching.

This is what the inside looks like.

Just thought I would share since I finally finished it. The handles on this one look like a butterfly when they come together. This one also has more "rag" edges than my first one did.
What'cha think?

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

New coupon blog.

2009-06-26T23:55:00.002-05:00

I started a new coupon blog called Hip to Clip. I thought it might be better to have the coupon deals all in one place. So if you're at all interested in my boring posts about freebies, cheap deals, and my occasional CVS deals, it would be great if you followed me on it.

I'd also be interested to learn about deals from others as well. It's impossible for one person to find them all. Collectively we could really get some good info.

On other bloggy news, I am feeling kind of under the weather tonight. I hope I am not coming down with anything. I want to go to WM tomorrow and get those pints of Starbucks ice cream so I really hope I feel a lot better by the time I wake up. I should probably drink some pine needle tea in the morning to boost my immune system. It couldn't hurt.

TTYL =)

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A post for myself.

2009-06-26T13:00:00.003-05:00

All controversy aside, I was a huge fan of Michael Jackson growing up. His music got me through some rough pre-teen and teenage crap.

I begged and pleaded with my parents to get me tickets to go see him in concert when he came within 100 miles of my house.

It was 1984 and he came to Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, TN.
The tickets were $50 a piece back then and our family was dirt poor. Still, somehow my parents scraped the money together and I was able to go. I saw him on August 9th, 1984 during his last of three appearances in Knoxville.

I remember to this day that I was dead center of the floor in row 3. I was 11 and a half years old and I enjoyed the concert immensely. Little did I know then that every other concert I would attend after that, (New Edition, The Jets, just to name a couple) would pale in comparison!

Like a lot of other fans I wallpapered my bedroom with his posters, bought every new song that came out, learned all the words to each and every one. I read every article about him that I could get my hands on. I was the typical die hard giddy girl fan.

After I met Chris I outgrew my obsession with the pop icon and got on with my life. I can't even tell you what happened to all my memorabilia. I suppose my mom threw it all away. Still I was saddened yesterday when I heard he passed away.

I was sad because it just didn't seem like it was his time. Sad because a piece of my childhood is gone forever. Sad for his children, his sisters, brothers, and his parents. Sad that his life ended so suddenly without any chance for a goodbye.

That is why I have chosen the following song to serve as my own personal way to pay my respects and remember the good times. In a way this song seems like a fitting way for him to say goodbye and for his fans to say goodbye to him as well.

You are not alone.

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Don't feel pressured to defend yourself.

2009-06-25T22:55:00.007-05:00

I'm talking specifically about us hard-n-heavy couponers and stockpilers.

I read on a lot of message boards and other thrifty -deal seeking- blogs.
One thing that comes up again and again is the stockpiler, more often than not, seems to feel a need to justify why they bought so much of "X" product.

Like tonight, I was reading the blog of a friend that posted her loot of 100 boxes of pasta salad that she got for less than $4. Then goes on to say, "Relax they are not all for me. I'm only keeping a few and giving the rest to family and friends."

Same with the message borads. Poster will show a picture of her cupboard. Let's say she has 40 bottles of spaghetti sauce (for example). You know that a few replies down there will be someone that is bitter and jealous, and wants to crucify her over having so much of it. Here's the part where the original poster comes back and tries to defend themselves by saying they DO share with their parents, neighbors, etc.
It's enough to make any hard core couponer afraid to share their stock pictures for fear of being slapped on the writst about it.

Here's what I say. Any one else in their right mind wouldn't turn down free food, first of all. Secondly, if you were investigative enough to find the sale, then paid for the newspapers to get the coupons, or off ebay, or clipping service, or traded for the coupons, then drove on fuel that you paid for to get to the store...then I say you have nothing to apologize for. No reason to defend yourself!!

It's HARD work to keep all this coupon stuff straight. It takes time and a LOT of effort to find the best deals to keep our families fed. If you beat me to the store and take all 40 boxes of WHATEVER, then too bad for me! The early bird...

Chances are there's more than one of that store in town anyway. Maybe you'll luck up at the next one. If not then you have no one to be pissed at but yourself.

I just wish us couponers weren't made to feel like we have to justify buying in bulk. If a store has a great sale on some thing(s) my family uses and I can acquire the coupons to make the items free then you bet your sweet arse I'm gonna go get as much as I can. You don't need to know why I got so much, or tell me I am greedy, or ask me if I am really going to keep all that for myself?
My money, my coupons, my planning, my mileage on my car, MY BUSINESS!

Vent over.

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

I am in such a good mood today!

2009-06-24T18:33:00.005-05:00

Maybe it's because my hubs has been home for a week, (he's leaving soon- BOO!)
Maybe it is because of all the fantastic coupon deals that have surfaced lately.
Maybe it is because I got a couple etsy orders and my shop still has a teeny bit of a pulse left after all. I was about to pronounce it dead!
Most likely it is a combination of everything.

So anyway, I want to share a couple good coupon deals with my coupie buds out here in internet land...
Always Infinity 28, 32, or 36 ct. boxes are only .99/box at CVS right now after coupon.
Now read carefully. This is an unadvertised sale. When you get to CVS the Infinity shelf price still reads $10.79 (give or take depending on your area), but they scan for $4.99. Minus the $4/1 coupon from the previous P&G insert and you get them for only .99!
I have no personal need for these thanks to my precious little operation I had back when I was 21 so I am stocking up on them for my 14 yo. niece. Her mom doesn't coupon shop and typically buys here generics. Which she hates. lol I'm gonna be Aunt of the the year! =)

Starbucks Ice Cream for .58/pint.
If you like Starbucks ice cream and have the $2/1 coupons from this past weekends SmartSource inserts you can take those to Walmart and get each pint for .50-.58 each.
Some report that it is $2.50 at their stores while others report it is $2.58.
Either way .50/.58 is not a bad price. I plan to stock my deep freeze with a few pints for the summer. (IF my coupons ever get here from fee-bay!)

Need dental floss? It's...FREE!
There are $1/1 Reach dental floss coupons out now that do not expire until 5/30/2010. Yes, I said 2010. Walmart sells it for $1 a pack so, FREE!
If we had a free dental clinic around here I'd load up on this deal just to donate it.

So there you go. Grab your cheap pads, have a pint of Starbuck's ice cream and floss for free afterwards. LMBO

It's A Beautiful Life

2009-06-23T04:07:00.004-05:00

If you could use a pick-me-up today...

Beautiful Life by Fisher

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CVS 6/20/09

2009-06-21T03:22:00.005-05:00

Over $112 in product for less than $2 cash. Plus I walked out with more ExtraBucks than I went in with!

The Dawn was free because I had a raincheck from when it was on sale for .99 (back in Sept. 08) and I got a $1 home mailer coupon for it last week. Put the two together, free Dawn Hand Renewal.
Also free after coupons were the Buddy Bars, St. Ives facial, and the 7 First Aid kits.

The 4 ThermaCare heat wraps were money makers, but best of all were the Soy Joy bars. We bought 40 of them and got back $20 more in ECBs than we paid with.

The Almay Pure Minerals face powder was $13.99 each and paid out $10 each in ECBs EACH, and I used a $2 coupon on each one. PLUS, I was able to use two $5/30 coupons that CVS emailed to me! (Separate transactions of course!)

After CVS Chris and I went to Walmart where we got over $90 worth of stuff (mostly food items) for only $28 and change. It was a fun night.

Hot!

2009-06-20T18:11:00.004-05:00

Super HOT! Scorching hot! The weather, that is! I was trying to put on a little make-up before I head to CVS tonight and since there's no AC in my bathroom I was sweating it off faster than I could apply it. Forget about using any foundation today. Sheesh!

Won't somebody PLEASE turn the winter back on?? =(

.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*´¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*´¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

It was a simple, yet happy 21st.

2009-06-20T03:31:00.002-05:00

So the 19th of June was our 21st wedding anniversary. We kept it very low key. We went shopping at a couple of our favorite places in Sevierville, TN. Had a nice dinner at Cracker Barrel (Chris's favorite resturant, not so much mine), then we went to Starbucks, and last we went and saw a movie before heading back home. I guess it was more of date night thing than an anniversary thing but, oh well. We enjoyed ourselves and that is what matters.

When we first arrived in Sevierville we were thinking we'd rent a cabin for the night. We had even packed our overnight bags and everything. Then we found out it was going to be around $180/night with taxes.
I told Chris that unless he really had his heart set on it I'd rather just see a movie and go back home.
One main reason why I didn't want to drop that much $ on the cabin was because it was already 8pm when we got to it. Checkout time is 11AM.

Maybe I've been couponing so long that I've turned into a real cheapskate, but $180 for 15 hours in a cabin, 8 hours or so spent sleeping...
That leaves only 7 hours awake and lets be real. You can only be "intimate" for so long before even that gets old. Or maybe that's just me. lol
So I figured we'd basically be paying $180 for 8 hours sleep and at least 4 hours of watching TV. And maybe an hour in the hot tub? Not worth it. Not right now.

After 6 long weeks...

2009-06-13T15:15:00.002-05:00

After 6 long weeks my hubs is finally headed home!

Actually, make that almost 7 weeks when you factor in that it is an additional 5 day drive from CA to TN.

He's been all over CA, NV, WA and I'm ready to have him back here on the east coast where he belongs! HA. =)

We're going to go camping, just the two of us, for our 21st wedding anniversary. (Which is officially June 19th.)

He bought a bottle of wine and a smoked Salmon - somewhere out west- that we will dine on by the fire. Should be interesting since I only have alcohol once every couple of years and Chris NEVER drinks. lol But he promised me he would try to take at least one sip so I wouldn't be all alone. Come to think of it. For a guy that wants nothing to do with alcohol I'm not exactly sure why he even bothered buying it! lol

Rambling

2009-06-07T21:11:00.002-05:00

Did you ever get so bored that you were looking for things to do, but nothing appealed to you?

I could do something crafty. I've got another rag quilt purse started. I could make these cute, cute thank you cards I've been meaning to get around to making.
Or, I could load the dishwasher. Where's the fun in that?
Doesn't seem to matter what I think of though. Nothing is tickling my fancy. If Chris were here I'd like to go on a drive with him just to enjoy the night air and look at the stars.

My letter to CVS corporate was published!

2009-06-06T23:57:00.003-05:00

My letter to corporate was published! =)

So I went to CVS tonight to do my deal same as I do every Saturday night. As soon as I stepped in the door I was greeted by the manager and another employee (Hey Brook!).

They had a book in their hand and were asking me if I heard the news? They told me that a letter I had written to corporate was published in the spring 2009 CVS/Caremark Real Stories book. Brook opens the book to page 17 and sure enough there is just one of the many letters I had written in praise of my store.

The manager was beaming and very appreciative. I think I scored some major points when he saw that letter, and I know it made him proud of all his employees as they all got a hearty "Way to go" from management.

He talked to me for almost an hour and I think it really helped both of us get to know each other even better.

So, write those letters to corporate PRAISING your nice CVS stores. It can make a world of difference.

They let me keep a copy of the book. Here's a pic. of it and my letter.

Updated freebie and cheapie list.

2009-06-06T01:47:00.003-05:00

More added!

If you know of other deals that are free or really cheap with coupon please let the rest of us know.

mq=manufacturer coupon
WM=WalMart
DG=Dollar General
FD=Family Dollar
Free or cheap

*Tabasco sauce FREE @ Walmart. Cost .98 - 1.00mq

*St. Ives trial size facial product FREE @ CVS. Cost 1.49- 1.50 mq

*AXE trial size body wash FREE @ WM. Cost .97-1.00mq

*Band Aid 30ct. box FREE @ DG. Cost 1.00- 1.00mq

*Band Aid 30ct. box .10 @ FD. Cost 1.10-1.00m

*Johnson's 2 oz. body lotion FREE @ WM. Cost .97 - 1.00 mq

*Johnson's Buddy Bars FREE @ WM. Cost .97 - 1.00mq

*Johnson's trial size first aid kits FREE @ CVS. Cost .99 - 1.00mq

*Angel Soft 4ct. pk. tp FREE @ Kroger. 1.00- .50mq (doubled) **Prices vary by region. My not- so- local Kroger sells them for 1.28

*Cottonelle 4ct. pk. tp @ WM. 1.00pk. X2 packs = 2.00 - .50/on 2 mq= 1.50 for both packs. (OR) - .75/2 mq= 1.25 for both packs, or precisly 62.5 cents per 4 roll pack!

*Eveready flashlights FREE @ DG. Cost 1.00 - 1.00 Energizer battery OR flashlight mq.
(Yes, you read that right. Energizer makes the Eveready flashlights.) I had no idea. Thanks to Lisa for the heads up on this one!

*Febreze Noticables kit .50 @ FD. Cost 4.50 - 4.00mq

*Febreze Noticables kit .75 @ DG. Cost 4.75 - 4.00mq

*Kotex Lightday pantyliners .25/pk @ WM or DG. Cost 1.00- .75mq

*Schick Disposable razors (10ct. + 2 bonus) FREE @ WM. Cost 1.97 - 2.00mq

*Glade Sense & Spray 1.00 @ WM. Cost 5.00 - 4.00mq

*Purina Kitten Chow (small bag) FREE @ WM. Cost 1.87 - free up to 2.19mq

*Glade Lasting Impressions 1.00 @ WM. Cost 5.00 - 4.00mq

*Air Wick I-Motion 1.00 @ WM. Cost 5.00 - 4.00mq

*Kraft salad dressing .08 @ WM. Cost 1.58 - 1.50mq

*Kraft BBQ sauce .23 @ WM. Cost .98 - .75mq

*Evercare lint rollers/refills FREE @ WM. Cost .97 - 1.00 printable mq.
(I found them at my store in the trial bins. 30 sheets to a roll.)

Coupon gurus...

2009-06-04T20:29:00.002-05:00

I have heard through the grapevine that, per Walmart's coupon policy, they will accept register rewards from Walgreens.

Has anyone tried this?

I know I need to go ask my store's manager and I have printed out the coupon policy to take with me, but I was hoping to get some feedback from others that asked.

I've read a few other places where people were told they could, no problem. I hope that is the case for me. I've got over $100 in RR and while I could spend them at Wags I think I could make them go a lot father at WM.

Walmart's coupon redemption criteria states that coupons must:
Have a scanable barcode.
An expiration date.
Be a manufacturor coupon.
Clearly state where to send for compensation.

The Wags register rewards meet all these requirements, so I am hopeful.

It is just shy of 4AM

2009-06-04T02:51:00.003-05:00

...and the sun will be up in about an hour.
Since I can not sleep I am seriously thinking of going back to Walgreens to see if they stocked any more money making meters. I mean, I'll give them .98 to give me back $10. Why not?

Afterward I could head over to Walmart too. I've collected quite a few printable coupons for freebies over the past couple of days.
Things like ice cream, A-1 sauces, Mac N Cheese, lint rollers, more razors, and I forget what else. I just know there is an envelope in my coupon binder that is now bulging and labeled [Walmart].

We're supposed to have some nasty thunderstorms today so maybe I could get in the shopping early before the storms come, and come home and sleep while it's raining. Sounds like a plan to me!

.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*´¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*´¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

The most beautiful thing I've ever heard.

2009-06-03T17:15:00.002-05:00

Emailed to me today from my hubby...

"I love you very much and will be praying for you."

I have such a wonderful husband! =)

What have YOU been up to?

2009-05-31T23:29:00.003-05:00

It's been pretty quite on my end of the blog. A lot of the people I follow haven't updated in a while. Shame, shame! ;)
I know, school is out or almost out and you are gearing up for the summer, right?

I have no real summer plans myself. Except to try not to smother in the heat. Today was the hottest day so far and it's real hard not to hold up here in the computer room with the only source of air conditioning. Alas, I can't sit in here all day! lol

June 1st marks exactly one month since I've seen my dear hubby, Chris. We talk on the phone but only a minute here and there. Neither of us likes talking on the phone and part of his job is practically living on the phone. I guess by the time he gets around to me he's just exhausted. Can't say I blame him.

Does anyone remember when Kmart was giving back $25 on every $50 purchase? Well, I had went and bought a new bed set and got DS Alex a couple games for his birthday. Total was $100. That was back in March. About 3 weeks ago I got the 2- $25 gift cards in the mail. Still haven't decided how I want to spend them. Part of me really wants to use it towards a tent. Why, I don't know. I hate camping. Still, we don't have one and that just doesn't seem right. lol

So my shopping adventures have been most awesome. They'd be so much better if the hubs were here. Sorry. I just miss him. I don't mean to whine about it all the time.
I wish I could make everyone I know independantly wealthy. =)

What a day.

2009-05-28T02:51:00.002-05:00

Today, well actually yesterday now. Anyway it was my 6 month Dr. visit for my thyroid blood-work and turns out my blood pressure was high. Too high. 140 over 102.
During my past few visits my Dr. told me it has been borderline high and that if it went any higher I would be put on blood pressure meds. Sigh. That is not something I wanted to hear.

So she writes me a script for the blood pressure meds. I stuck it in my pocket and drove to CVS to have it filled, albeit begrudgingly. I got up to the counter, reached in my pocket and the script was gone! Me and my favorite cashier searched high and low and never did find it. And the thing is, I had checked my pocket right as I stepped out of the car to make sure I still had it. So somewhere between walking in the door and approaching the counter is when it must've fallen out of my pocket. I guess someone picked it up or something. So now I gotta call my Dr. and get that little setback fixed. OY!

So what's new with me? Welcome to the world of high blood pressure. Yay. Just what I always wanted. =(

CVS May 23rd

2009-05-24T00:16:00.004-05:00

Tonight's plan wasn't a big one because a lot of this weeks free and money maker items are for Sunday & Monday only, so I couldn't do them tonight (Saturday.)
I saved over $84. Broke even on ECBs spent vs. ECBs gained and paid only 1.92 cash OOP for everything pictured.
The Sobe Lifewater are BOGO this week and I had 4 BOGO coupons, making all 8 free. The OFF Clip Ons I had a BOGO coupon for and also $6 in coupons. My plan actually went into the negative so I had to grab the Palmolive and gum for fillers. lol
CVS finally mailed me a $/$$ coupon to use which helped - a lot!

8 Sobe Lifewaters
2 boxes Trail Mix Crunch cereal
2 ThermaCare heat wraps
2 Speed Stick deo.
2 OFF Clip-On repellents
2 Olay Ribbons body washes
1 Palmolive
1 gum
1 Colgate toothpaste
----------------------
All 21 items for 1.92
I'll keep and use everything except the toothpaste and maybe the deodorants, which I'll send to Chris's co=workers. =)
Going to give the Palmolive to my SIL Karen.
Chris wants the OFF for when he takes his boat on the lake and he likes having the ThermaCare wraps on hand.
Olay Ribbons body wash is my personal favorite because it lathers like nobodies business!
I doubt we'll have any of the Sobe's left by this time tomorrow!

Sulking

2009-05-22T22:41:00.002-05:00

Am I the only poor sap with no Memorial weekend plans?
I guess I'm feeling sorry for myself again because Chris is stuck working in Phoenix, AZ and I'm stuck here in east TN. The last time I saw Chris was on May 1st. It's been a long month!

I tried to talk the boys into having a cookout or go on a picnic, but they're just not interested in doing anything. A picnic for one doesn't sound like much fun.

Enjoy your cookouts, campfires, and such. I'll still be here when the holiday weekend has passed. Sigh.

Farmers Market

2009-05-22T16:21:00.002-05:00

I am determined to make it to the local farmers market in the morning- somehow!
I've been given orders by DH to go get water buffalo from one of the vendors there. Hubs wants to cook it on the grill.

Oh how I hate things that start and end early. Don't they know I've been trying to make it there for the past 3 Saturdays unsuccessfully? lol
Anyone want to come knock me unconscious tonight so I can sleep and get up at say, 7am???

Been shopping & saving again.

2009-05-21T03:22:00.005-05:00

Since I am an insomniac by nature I've been doing my Walmart shopping in the wee AM hours. I love shopping during that time for a few reasons:
1.No crowds to fight.
2.Great parking.
3.Cashiers are always calm and in a better mood.
4.Me and my coupons don't hold up the line cause, there isn't one!
5. No lines means no one behind me grumbling and b!tching about me and my coupons. lol

But anyway, back to tonight's great deal. I got everything pictured for 10.21! That's a 90% savings y'all. Total before coupons was $100.70.
I didn't have coupons for the .50 cucumber and the 2.50 imitation crab meat. AND, this was the first time I ever got a cashier that gave me the overage on my coupons at Walmart. YAY!

I got:
20 bottles Kraft salad dressings
17 bags Purina Kitten Chow
12 -12pks. Schick razors
11 Johnson's lotions
1 cucumber
1 crab meat
------------
62 items total for barely over $10
I now have over 75 bags of the Purina Kitten Chow. Well over 150 packs of the 12 pack Schick razors. So many lotions I have lost count, and an embarrassing amount of salad dressing. But, I am not stingy. I have been and will continue to share with my family and friends as the need arises.
Just a couple days ago my best friend went home with a case of can chicken, 4 salad dressings, 6 Hunts spaghetti sauces, 4 cans corn, 4 cans green beans, one box instant potatoes, one box Velveeta shells & cheese, treats for her dogs and her cats, plus a lot of other things.

Yesterday I went and got a ton of Cottonelle! 122 packs to be exact. Between this pile and what I already had we now have enough tp to last us 2 years. And the "bad" thing is that I have enough of the coupons left to go back and get this much more. I bought the coupons from a seller on ebay that was really, really, REALLY reasonable. A steal IMO.

So, I am all set on TP, razors, BBQ sauces, animal food, treats, and salad dressings for the rest of the year. Now it's time to focus on my trash bag stockpile. And to my surprise there are $2/1 Hefty coupons floating around. Now to couple those with a sale. Anyone know of one?

Family O Bums and Door to Door Salesmen. GRR

2009-05-20T05:14:00.006-05:00

Guys and gals, let me tell you about my Monday.
I woke up late this past Monday morning, went outside, and the weather was so beautiful that I decided to leave my front door open to let in the fresh air. I do that a lot because I live on a downhill slop, long driveway, and my house is in the woods. So, I figure I'm ok to leave the door open in the day time. Wrong!
Not five minutes later my older brother came in and was wanting to borrow $300 from me. He is 14 years older than me. No kids, and not married. I think he should be financially set by now. This wasn't the first time he came asking for cash. I had to turn him away because he is making too big of a habit of "sister ATM." Besides the fact that I don't have $300 laying around to give away! I love him but it makes me very uncomfortable to be asked for money like that. Ya know?

After my brother finally left I went to my bedroom to straighten up a bit and get ready for my day. I didn't even have my bra on yet, y'all!!! Then, all of a sudden Faith starts barking up a storm. I go to see what has her in a tizzy. There was a lady standing at my door yelling. This was not even ten minutes after my brother had left.
It was her, and in a van was a man, and two other younger guys come to try and sell me a Kirby vacuum!
With my door wide open I felt so trapped. I explained I wasn't in the market for a new vacuum, but of course they would not take no for an answer! They insisted on doing an in home demo.
So, they vacuumed my hardwood living room floor and polished it. They vacuumed, shampooed, and re-vacuumed my bedroom floor. Then had the nerve to get mad when it came time to haggle the price and I stood firm that I gave them fair warning. I am not buying anything. The older man was extremely forceful with me verbally. I even explained to him that the hubs hasn't been getting as much work as usual with the state of the economy and given the choice of making my car payments or payments on a vacuum, well...which would YOU choose? He wasn't hearing me. Finally I told him it does not matter what sales pitch you throw at me. You aren't going to change my mind, sir. Period. End of discussion. Sheesh! It took me over two HOURS to get those people out of my house!
That'll teach me to try to enjoy beautiful spring weather at my own home!

Kroger let me down!

2009-05-18T21:27:00.004-05:00

UPDATE: So I called corporate and he didn't know why the coupons did not double. Long story short, he loaded $5 on to my Kroger card. It will probably be a while before I drive to that store again. I should've called before I left the parking lot! Then I could have went back in and got my other 18 packs! DOH!
----------------------------------------------------------
So I finally acquired enough of the .50/1 Angel Soft tp coupons (through trades, friends, and fee-bay) to justify the 80 mile round trip drive to my closest Kroger. It went horribly!

First thing was the price. I read that it was 1.00/pack. Got to the store and it was 1.28/pack. I thought ok, so .28/pack after the coupon is doubled. Still a decent deal.

I put 10 packs in my buggy (cause I was gonna break up the transactions), went through checkout and none of my coupons were doubled. I asked the cashier about it, she asked someone else and all he said was, "It's up to the register to double or not." "If it doesn't do it there's nothing we can do about it."
WTHeck???

So I paid 9.01 (after taxes) for 10 packs of TP that I drove far too far away to get. I am super bummed.

Can anyone tell me why the coupons did not double? I would appreciate all the help I can get. I just want to understand!

After that fiasco I crossed the street to go to Target where I grabbed a ton of the small Johnson's lotions, first aid kits, Buddy Bars, AXE body washes, sunscreens, etc. etc. (Anything I could get for free after coupon) just to try and justify driving all that way!! Totally and utterly pissed, I am.

Current Cheap and Freebie list.

2009-05-17T20:26:00.007-05:00

UPDATED on May 20th with further info.

I've been meaning to compile this list for some time. "Problem" is, it keeps growing! lol
This list is good for when you need filler items, wanna stock up on certain items for free, or get items to donate.

Note that prices do vary by region. Depending on different stores in your area, you may be able to do even better. Like one of my friends that got her Kraft BBQ sauce completely free at a store local to her. I do not have that store here, so I am listing according to what I do have locally.

If you know of other deals that are free or really cheap with coupon please let the rest of us know.

mq=manufacturer coupon
WM=WalMart
DG=Dollar General
FD=Family Dollar
Free or cheap

*St. Ives trial size facial product FREE @ CVS. Cost 1.49- 1.50 mq

*AXE trial size body wash FREE @ WM. Cost .97-1.00mq

*Band Aid 30ct. box FREE @ DG. Cost 1.00- 1.00mq

*Band Aid 30ct. box .10 @ FD. Cost 1.10-1.00m

*Johnson's 2 oz. body lotion FREE @ WM. Cost .97 - 1.00 mq

*Johnson's Buddy Bars FREE @ WM. Cost .97 - 1.00mq

*Johnson's trial size first aid kits FREE @ CVS. Cost .99 - 1.00mq

*Angel Soft 4ct. pk. tp FREE @ Kroger. 1.00- .50mq (doubled)

*Cottonelle 4ct. pk. tp @ WM. 1.00pk. X2 packs = 2.00 - .50/on 2 mq= 1.50 for both packs. (OR) - .75/2 mq= 1.25 for both packs, or precisly 62.5 cents per 4 roll pack!

*Eveready flashlights FREE @ DG. Cost 1.00 - 1.00 Energizer battery OR flashlight mq.
(Yes, you read that right. Energizer makes the Eveready flashlights.) I had no idea. Thanks to Lisa for the heads up on this one!

*Febreze Noticables kit .50 @ FD. Cost 4.50 - 4.00mq

*Febreze Noticables kit .75 @ DG. Cost 4.75 - 4.00mq

*Kotex Lightday pantyliners .25/pk @ WM or DG. Cost 1.00- .75mq

*Schick Disposable razors (10ct. + 2 bonus) FREE @ WM. Cost 1.97 - 2.00mq

*Glade Sense & Spray 1.00 @ WM. Cost 5.00 - 4.00mq

*Purina Kitten Chow (small bag) FREE @ WM. Cost 1.87 - free up to 2.19mq

*Glade Lasting Impressions 1.00 @ WM. Cost 5.00 - 4.00mq

*Air Wick I-Motion 1.00 @ WM. Cost 5.00 - 4.00mq

*Kraft salad dressing .08 @ WM. Cost 1.58 - 1.50mq

*Kraft BBQ sauce .23 @ WM. Cost .98 - .75mq

*Evercare lint rollers/refills FREE @ WM. Cost .97 - 1.00 printable mq.
(I found them at my store in the trial bins. 30 sheets to a roll.)

*Bounty single roll paper towels FREE @ WM. Cost $1 - $1 coupon from the P&G promotional home mailer coupon pack attained from purchasing $50 worth of qualifying P&G products.

Free Shick Disposable Razors are back.

2009-05-15T19:53:00.004-05:00

Remember a few months back when I blogged about these? They were the ones that have 10 to a pack + 2 bonus razors for $1.97 @ Walmart. The coupon that makes these free is back again! Save $2/1 pack Schick disposable razors, Exp. 6/21/09
They aren't the greatest razor- lets be honest, but for free they work ok if you only use them once or twice. If you are like me and can shave with just about anything then free is a great price to pay.
And remember you can donate these to shelters, and your local Red Cross chapter, as well as dozens of other charities that would love to take them off your hands.

If you want to get your hands on some of these to use or to donate you can get a set of 20 coupons on ebay right now for less than $2 with shipping INCLUDED!

A pinwheel pillow and a pincushion.

2009-05-13T06:25:00.006-05:00

I couldn't sleep again last night so I finished this pillow and pincushion that I had started a couple of days ago.
The pillow is overstuffed at the moment. That's because it has a brand new pillow in it. It will flatten out over time, as all pillows do.

The pincushion isn't perfect. I didn't have a pattern and it was my first time trying to make one, but it will still serve its purpose.

Just thought I'd share. Off to get in a nap before my day begins again!

.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*´¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*´¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

New Coupon Storage

2009-05-11T22:41:00.007-05:00

Since Ryan posted the question, "How do you store your coupons?" I thought I would share my switch-over to "binder-world".

Until recently I stored my inserts whole in a clear Artbin box. It is nice and deep, has snap closures, and a sturdy handle for carrying around.
However, since I can no longer obtain whole inserts locally the bulk of my coupons have been clipped from friends, trades, and from ebay. That's when I decided it might be time to go ahead with a binder. And that's when I found this beauty!
Other than getting it set up and categorized, I think I am going to like it.
It is nice and deep, zippered, has glorious collapsible handles, a solar calculator, a place for the store cards, pens, scissors, notepad, 3 Ring, and a place for a cell phone. It also has an interior fold out accordion file for current ads and such. It was originally $20 but on clearance for $15, so I grabbed it.

Collapsible handles with pockets on both sides.

Zippered! Otherwise this klutz would spill her coupon loot someday and that would be the end of it. lol

Then I went to MomSaves.com and ordered some fantastic specialty sized coupon binder pages because I found that I was having to fold too many of my coupons in half and in thirds using the regular baseball card pages. I hate folding my coupons. Call me anal! lol

I have the first section set up for my daily coupon plan. It's a single pocket to put in specific coupons and plans that I pulled to use on that specific trip to town for specific stores, and has everything I'll need to take in that store with me.

For example: I went to CVS today to do the cereal deal. So I pulled out my Kellogg's coupons and my ECB "cash", CVS card, along with a jotted plan. I paper clipped everything together and put it in the pocket page. That way, when I get to town I don't need to carry in the whole binder and fumble for the correct ECBs, my store card, coupons, etc. I grab the plan and go. Make sense?

The next section of my binder is dedicated to my rainchecks. Paperclipped to the rainchecks are the appropriate coupons I plan to use with said rainchecks to make the items free, or close to it.

I'm thinking page 3 will be a pocket just for storing my CVS ECBs, and page 4 for my WAGS RRs since I currently carry those in my purse. It's a work in progress I tell ya!

From there we get into the good stuff. The actual coupons, which I plan to list in alphabetical order soon.

My new binder pages should be here in a couple of days and I can hardly wait to put the larger coupons in.

And well, that's how I'm storing my coupons.

Gearing up.

2009-05-09T16:55:00.004-05:00

I'm feeling a lot better today. Thank you all SO much for the prayers!!!

Right now I am just getting the "paper work" ready to head out to do my CVS deal tonight. I am looking forward to it because the glucose meters are free after coupon and pay out $5 each, with a limit of two. For me that is a $7 money maker (after taxes) that I can use to get a free bottle of laundry detergent, TP, or...whatever. However I am thinking of using that overage to pay for the new female version of the Schick Quattro Trimmer razor. Those are 8.99, pay out $4 ECBs and I have a $4/1 coupon. So, .99 each and the limit is 5. WOOHOO. I can get the razors completely free and the overage from the meters will even pay the taxes. Plus, my brother and sister can use the meters.
I'm also getting a free bottle of Dawn Hand Renewal because I got a $1/1 coupon in a home mailer today and I still have a raincheck for it for .99 from way back when they were on sale.

Plus, I got my 40 coupons for the nearly free Kraft BBQ sauce so I'll be running over to Walmart to get those tonight as well.

Should be a good night. I just hope they have all the razors!

Coupons are the new CASH! Like my new saying? lol

UPDATE: I'm back. My shopping trip was a big success. I got everything I went after and even had to get a candy bar because I went in the negative. Woohoo. Sorry, no picture this week guys. Just Imagine what 40 bottles of BBQ sauce, 5 Titanium Trimmers, etc. etc. would look like. ;)

Rag Bag

2009-05-07T14:11:00.008-05:00

I'm not feeling good and haven't had any real sleep in a couple of days. Nothing contagious. Just very painful. So, to try to take my mind off the pain and not being able to sleep I sat up all night making myself a rag bag. I made it with the scraps of fabric I had left over from the table cloth that I blogged about (a few posts down.)

I didn't have a pattern so I just tried to visualize it in my mind as I went along. I had seen them on etsy too, so that helped.
I cut my leftovers in to 2X2" squares then stitched those 4 patterns together to make 4X4" squares.

It is not 100% finished. It still needs to take a trip through the washer and dryer to reach its full fluff potential. It has the batted padding and tons of X stitches that I'm hoping will be more defined when it comes out of the washer. I also added lace which I think made it look Tre Femme!
It's not perfect but it's strong and sturdy so it should serve its purpose. lol

And a recap on the other things I made with this fabric.

Spike Trasnformed

2009-05-07T10:50:00.008-05:00

Hi, I'm Spike!

Do you remember when I posted about this Cecropia silk moth last year? Alex found it on July 18th, 08. We did some reading up about it and decided to name him Spike (for obvious reasons), and keep him to observe his metamorphosis.

Well, he ate a lot and all the time. We used a dropper to put water on leaves for him and he would drink, and drink. He eventually shed one "skin" for another and grew bigger all the time.

Then the day finally came for him to spin his silk cocoon. Once inside he remained there for almost 10 months, with the winter months spent in a container in the bottom drawer of our fridge.
I find it so interesting that he lay completely immobile in his little hard shelled sarcophagus for so long.
Finally yesterday, May 06,09 Spike came out of his pupa stage to make his new debut. We were all so excited! We had watered, fed, and cared for this little life for so long and looked forward to seeing what he would look like when he reappeared.

Here he is sitting on his silk cocoon after making his exit.
And here he is a few minutes later. At this point his wings are still wet and his color dark green like the Persimmon leaves he fed on those long months ago.

Right now he is just hanging out to dry, literally. Once his wings have cured his colors will be more vibrant, deeper scarlet red and black, with pink/purple highlights. Like this one:
It's "just a moth" but it was so awesome to feed him, to watch him change and transform, spin his silk cocoon, and all the phases of his life cycle up to now.

Today he will be released. It is going to be so neat to watch him take flight to go and find his mate to pass on his bloodline for next year.

And that's the shortened story of Spike. =)

A Springy Table Cover

2009-05-05T22:15:00.006-05:00

Last night I made this custom cover for my little coffee table. I love these shabby cottage fabric prints and thought they were perfect to help lighten up my living room.

The focal part is done in rag quilt style because I do so love the look of it.

Yellow and pink rose patterns partnered with a green crackle. I even used some lace to trim the edges. What do you think of it?

CVS 5/03/09

2009-05-02T23:13:00.003-05:00

Everything here was less than $3 OOP. DS plan even went 1.87 into the negative so he had to grab more fillers!
I rolled $23 in ECBs and got back 22.99!
Now, those boxes of Baid Aids came from Dollar General, not CVS. They are $1/box and the coupons are $1/1 so all were free, except taxes.

The Loot Count:

10 J&J First Aid kits $9.90 worth
8 boxes Band Aids $8 worth
8 J&J Buddy Bars (soaps) $11.90 worth
6 boxes Kellogg's cereals $20.04 worth
5 Adidas deodorants $19.95 worth
4 Colgate toothpastes w/free toothbrushes attached. $11.96 worth
2 packs Zantrex 3 energy shots $9.98 worth
1 king size Reese cups .89
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44 items total $101.88 grand total after taxes, for less than $3 cash!!!

Angel Soft Coupons

2009-05-02T17:23:00.002-05:00

I just want to put this out there...

In the 4/19/09 Redplum inserts some locations got a .50/1 four ct. pk.- regular roll or larger on Angel Soft toilet paper.
If you have these and want to give them away, trade, or whatever, please let me know.

I have several $2.50/1 Electrasol coupons that I'd love to trade for these!

Christmas set completed.

2009-05-02T14:11:00.006-05:00

Remember when I posted the Christmas quilt that I made? Well, I decided that I wanted it to have a matching pillow. So I sat down last night and made one. I made it in the same fabrics but instead of flat like the blanket I did it in rag quilt style.

I love the look of rag quilting because the edges come out so soft and fluffy. I made the pillowcase to fit standard to oversized pillows. My king size bed pillows fit in nicely.

I'm very happy with how they turned out and I know I made them both well enough to last through several generations. Who knows, maybe one day I'll have a grandchild that will love and cherish my Christmas set. LOL
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

HOT dog!

2009-05-01T15:15:00.002-05:00

About 2AM I went in the bedroom, flipped on the bathroom light and saw this. It was 80 degrees, no AC in there, and Faith was belly side up on a folded comforter incline. She never sleeps with her belly exposed. She was trying to cool down. Poor doggy. lol I just thought it was funny, and sad. Faith wants AC in the bedroom. ;)

A New Item. Shabby Cottage Pillow set.

2009-04-27T17:23:00.006-05:00

Just listed in my shop. I made these with the primitive and shabby cottage feel in mind. They turned out even more beautiful than I hoped. A set of three quilted pillows to use as shelf sitters or whatnot.
I hope someone buys these for their Mom for Mother's Day.

The price is a bit steep for a couple reasons but number one, if they don't bring it I am fine keeping them for myself!
What do you think? Aren't they pretty???

The shop.

2009-04-27T15:25:00.004-05:00

Those of you that have Etsy shops, are sales picking up for you lately?
Mine has been all but dead all winter with a sparse order here and there.
Lately though it seems like sales are finally picking up a little. I've had 3 special orders over the past couple of weeks. One was a biggie. A wedding party order! That made my day.

I need to make and list a few new designs as I haven't sat down and played in my jewelry stuff in ages. I didn't see the need since nothing was selling. I also have a lot of other non jewelry things I want to list but I am wondering if that would be "retail suicide?" I've read over and again to pick one thing to sell to make a name for yourself, and stick to that. Problem is that I have so many other interests and things to offer the world besides jewelry. lol

I suppose I could always list them and see what happens. Couldn't hurt to try, right?

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Getting whiny!

2009-04-25T17:50:00.003-05:00

Because I hate, loathe, despise, HOT weather. Why? Because I wake up feeling sick. I go through the day in a daze. I get headaches a lot. Just miserable all the way around. Oh and not to mention I woke up today to a TICK crawling on my leg!

The only AC I have is here in the computer room, but I can't stay in here all day every day until winter comes back around!

I'm sitting here doing nothing and I can feel heat radiating from my bare feet!! I have my hair twisted up on my head and feel like I've been out plowing a field or something. I don't know how you summer people get the energy to move a muscle in this heat.

If I could have it my way I'd turn the AC wide open and take a long summer hibernation.
You can keep the snakes, bees, ticks, fleas, sunburns, sweat and all that "fun" stuff that comes with this season. I don't want any, thankyouverymuch.

Rant over. Back to your regularly scheduled program.

A Little Sunburned, Completely Full, and a bit tired.

2009-04-23T22:03:00.002-05:00

I was so glad Chris was home today because we finally got to go to the Ribfest in Gatlinburg, TN. We have been trying to get there for years but he was always gone to work.

I dragged my overweight self around for what felt like miles up and down the main strip. Several vendors were there and we ate ribs and wings until we could eat no more. It was HOT and my face and the back of my neck got a bit sunburned. I honestly didn't think I'd be in the sun long enough to burn! I should've known my BLACK Celtic dragon tattoo on the back of my neck would pull the sun right to it. Should've left my long hair down, eh? lol Honestly, I never see the thing. Out of sight, out of mind. Ya know? Anyway, I'm home, I'm burned, and I'm tired.

It was pretty fun. I think I'll skip out on it next year though. I'm just not a hot weather activity kind of girl.

"Not Big Enough"

2009-04-21T13:58:00.004-05:00

That's what my son Alex said.

I still need to add the border but even with it he says it's not going to be big enough. :(
I haven't measured it yet but right now it should be in the area of 60X64". I figure with the border it will end up being 68X72".
What do you all think? Is that really to small to use? He says he wants to be able to wrap himself up in it. He is a husky guy at 6ft. 220lbs.

I feel like I've wasted my time. I don't want to make another quilt all over again. :(
What's worse is that the hubs doesn't like how I arranged the blocks. I thought I was mixing things up by not having them go straight across but rather up and down. I'm too much of a novice to make any funky designs or star patterns. What do these two expect of me??? Sigh.
Oh and by the way, I'm sorry the pictures aren't that great. It's just to give a general idea.

CVS Hot Deal Alert

2009-04-19T22:04:00.006-05:00

Update: I can now confirm that CVS has the Dove SkinVitalizers marked from $12.99 to $4 each.
There are printables out for $3.75/1 making them .25 each! There are also $3.50/1 coupons in the 3-15-09 RedPlum insert making them .50 each!
I just got back from buying 5 of these. $64.95 worth of product for $1.25 (before tax).

*Remember also, you can get rainchecks for these if your store is sold out or you don't have the coupons on hand. These coupons are fairly regular in the inserts.
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

CVS April 18, 09

2009-04-18T21:50:00.004-05:00

Tonight I rolled $13.00 in ECBs and got back $12.98 in ECBs. I only paid $2.55 cash for all 27 items!

7 packs Wrigley's gum. I used the last of my Free pack coupons that I had.
4 boxes cereal and 4 $1.50 coupons.
4 boxes Starbucks chocolates that were on clearance at my store for 1.00 and I had $1/1 coupons making them FREE. I got the last 4 boxes they had.
3 Crest Pro Health toothpastes was a money maker with my $2 in coupons.
3 J&J first aid kits .99 and used $1 off coupons for each.
2 boxes Bayer Quick Release Crystals were a money maker with my 1.50 coupons.
2 Edge shave gels were free after ECBs.
1 J&J lotion on clearance for $1.25 and I had a $1/1 coupon
1 Degree deodorant .99 with a $1/1 coupon
Also used a CVS $4 off $20 coupon

Playin' In Fabrics

2009-04-16T19:00:00.005-05:00

I had some free time last night so I made these two little pillows. I believe they are called shelf sitters or bowl fillers in the "prim world." I coffee stained a strip of muslin to tie around them and did my stamping thang, yes thang on the tag. lol I think they are cute.

And Ryan, I didn't forget about ya. Here's what I did with your awesome quilted square. Just simply added some batting, backing and a double border. I am using it as a mouse pad! Love it.

Also, All the supplies for Alex's quilt came today so I will be a very busy bee for the next few days. Pray I don't mess it up. lol This one's gonna be huge!
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

FREE Purex Laundry Detergent!

2009-04-16T17:58:00.004-05:00

Right now go to coupons.com and print your B1G1 free coupons on Purex. Take them to CVS where they are also on sale B1G1 free this week.
Each coupon gets you two free bottles! I scored 4 printable coupons and got 8 free bottles today. Hurry, the buy one get one free sale at CVS ends THIS Sat. April 18th.
NOTE: These printables aren't available to all areas. If you do not see the coupon type in zip code 44515 at the top left side of the page, click the orange arrow button and you should see it.

Thank you!

2009-04-15T01:55:00.003-05:00

To those of you that have recently sent me coupons via the snail mail...THANK YOU and ((hugs)).
They are very much appreciated.

Some Sunday's I get so sad knowing that, no matter how badly I may want the inserts I can not just go out and buy the paper and get them. Not unless I want to drive over 70 miles one way! So, please know you made my week!

Also, I am sorry to make a blanket and tacky internet thank you but I have lost some of your email addresses. But, you all know who you are and how much I wuv you for it. =)
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Crumbled under the pressure.

2009-04-14T13:43:00.008-05:00

So, last night Alex was looking through fabrics online with me. (I NEVER thought that sentence would come from my mouth- or fingertips as the case may be.) But anyway he was, and he found these fabric coordinates that he really liked.
You know where this is going, don't you?
He is just dying for his mommy to make him his very own quilt. Queen size no less! AHH. NOOOO, but...why me?! lol Yep, I caved. I'm such a wuss when it comes to my boys. Can I still call them boys? Alex is 21 afterall!!

Don't think I didn't try to talk him into making it himself. I even showed him Ryan's blog and tried to inspire him. It didn't work. He is too afraid he will mess up. Doesn't care that I would be there to help every step of the way with my own quilting know-how (that we all know would fit in a thimble with room to move around, LOL) but nevertheless I offered and encouraged to no avail.

I did a lot of thinking and am pretty sure I know a couple of ways to make this one less stressful and that is the only reason I agreed to it. So the fabric has been ordered, the batting ordered, the backing ordered as well. Now all I need are a few more spools of thread and to choose a fabric for the border. I've already invested well over $100 on this "little" project. Why do I punish myself so? Oiy vey, y'all!

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

The Christmas Quilt is Finished!

2009-04-13T14:06:00.006-05:00

Yeah, yeah, I know it's spring but since quilting isn't my area of expertise I figured that if I messed up too badly that at least we would only have to see the thing once a year! lol
I worked on this one and finished in two evenings. It's lap blanket size, or what you might call over-size crib blanket.

I'm real happy with how it turned out but I don't think I'll take on another project of this size. It was a LOT of work. I think I'll stick to wall banners and table runners.
My oldest son Alex loves quilts and wants me to make him one in queen or king size. I told him I love him but, happen not gonna. I'd be pulling my hair out by the roots!

DS Alex, A.K.A one who is waiting for me to give him a haircut.

Of course I had to put my signature tag on it. Don't want anyone else claiming they made this when I'm dead and gone. lmbo. =)

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Recent Freebies and a quilt update.

2009-04-12T15:04:00.004-05:00

This is a mix of a CVS trip and a WalMart trip combined.

My CVS trip was .61 in loose change. I paid with 13.97 in ECBs and got back 12.97 in ECBs. The 3 SoftSoap body washes, 4 Colgate toothbrushes, 4 Air Wick Ultra Mini starter kits, 4 J&J Buddy Bars, 1 Schick Quattro Titanium Trimmer, and the 6 J&J First Aid kits all came from CVS.

At Walmart the Air Wick I-Motion machines are on roll back for $5 and I had 14 $5/1 coupons so those were free except for taxes. The 9 packs of Kotex were .25/pack after coupon. Also the Purina Busy Chewnola 2 pack dog treat was free as the coupon for it was in a bag of Beggin' Strips that I had. So Ryan, check your Beggin' Strips for this coupon also.
After taxes I spent less than $6 for everything at Walmart.
Also, after two evenings my Christmas quilt is DONE! I intended to make it a table runner at first but then decided to use all the fabric blocks instead. It turned out lap blanket size. Perfect for relaxing on the sofa. I will post a picture if you promise not to give me a hard time about it being Christmas theme THIS time of year. But really, who has time to make a quilt at Christmastime, I ask you? lol

Oh and Happy Easter everyone!

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Cupcakes Galore

2009-04-09T16:25:00.007-05:00

SWEET!

Look what I got in the mail today! Ten wonderful cupcake bath bombs, (or fizzies) from my friend Miranda's shop over at Etsy called My Other Princess. They look good enough to eat, don't they? And they smell yummy too. These are her new line of miniature cupcakes and they are just too sweet! No pun intended.
How awesome would these be for party favors? I'd rather get one of these instead of a real cupcake any day. Less fat, less cavity worries. Plus, you get to enjoy their beauty until you're ready to use them.

I'm a shower girl but once in a while it is nice to light a candle, pour yourself a glass of wine, and sit back in a warm tub of relaxation. They leave your skin silky smooth too! OK, so that sounded like an advertisement. I'm not getting any compensation for this. I just really love these and wanted to share how awesome they are. If you happen to waltz over and buy yourself one, well, that's a win/win for you and for Miranda. =) You won't be disappointed.

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

4:50AM

2009-04-08T03:47:00.003-05:00

My insomnia is worsening lately. Last night I "slept" 4 hours, if you can call it sleep since I don't remember ever being asleep.
Tonight I went to bed at 2:30am when the Alteril pill felt like it was kicking in. Now it is 4:50am and I am back up because all attempts to sleep are futile. =(

Chris finally made it home from NY but he has to leave back out Thursday. We have so much stuff we need to take care of while he is in this one measly day. Very important stuff. I am going to be useless all day at this rate. I am exhausted and restless. Just completely worn out yet still can not fall asleep.

Sandman, where are you?
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Spring Special- Today Only.

2009-04-07T10:57:00.006-05:00

Regularly $32.05, get it today only for $20 shipping included.

It is snowing here in East Tennessee today but I am going to rebel by having a spring sale on this Tri-Strand multicolor pearl necklace. The pearls are genuine and it has Swarovski crystal accents as well. It is super flexible and 24" long.

Rag Pillow after washing.

2009-04-07T01:47:00.005-05:00

BEFORE: The picture above is the heart before washing. It was flat and the fabric on the edges was rough cut.

AFTER: This is what it looks like now post washing and drying. As you can see the edges are now soft and fluffy and the heart has puffy dimension between the stitching.

I absolutely love how it turned out and I've already got another project in the works.

I want to make a long Christmas themed table runner to place on my piano for the holidays. I found an etsy seller than had ninety 4.5" Christmas themed fabric squares for $5 so I bought them, because heaven knows I couldn't cut 90 perfect squares if my life depended on it. Besides that it is a huge time saver not to have to cut them first. I just have to wait for them to come in the mail. lol

Anyway, I can't wait to show Chris. He should be home tomorrow night. I hope he likes it but I expect he'll just nod.

This kept me up ALL night.

2009-04-06T15:40:00.006-05:00

I was up all night making this but it was so worth it! I couldn't decide if I wanted it to be a pillow or a wall hanging, and then it hit me, why can't it be both?

So I attached a button and hole on the back to help secure the pillow form inside ...

then I added the loops for when I want to use it as a wall hanging.

It's supposed to be what is called rag quilting. The edges of the squares will get really fluffy once I wash it but I couldn't wait to share the pictures. lol Just try to mentally picture them fluffy for now.

And Ryan, if you are seeing this and thinking "total NOOB!, that is SO easy" lol let me just say I am NOT a quilter. God gave me many talents and I can do just about anything I set my mind to but this is not my specialty. So, I stuck to a simple block pattern and am really happy with it all the same. =) How did I do for my first re-try in several, several years?

Recycled & Repurposed

2009-04-05T15:22:00.004-05:00

I wanted to show you what my friend Karen made for me. It is a bird feeder made out of all recycled and earth friendly materials. The base of the house is an old juice carton that she covered in peanut butter and rolled in bird seed. The roof and doorway is made of pine cone petals, moss for the grass and a pine cone "tree" in the yard. She then filled the inside with extra feed.
So what you get is a bird feeder that is edible both inside and out. I just love it and think the birds will too. Thanks Karen.

Feelin' Crafty Today

2009-04-05T14:48:00.004-05:00

Just thought I'd share.

I always liked how rustic these look but I wasn't about to pay $8 a piece for them, so I made my own. They didn't turn out perfect but what does the first time you try? I still like them a lot.
I made them with black eyed, black, kidney, pinto, and coffee beans. They'd look nice in a clear glass vase or in a shallow wooden bowl too.

What's Up with Comcast?

2009-04-04T12:56:00.004-05:00

Trying to check email on Comcast is a PITA! Half the time it will not load. Right now it says "If you are having trouble checking email, try again later." Later? Try later? This is the internet isn't it? I'm paying for SPEED and efficiency, Comcast. Get your crap together please!!!
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Rosie O'Donnell...

2009-04-03T02:52:00.002-05:00

has an Etsy shop. Who'da thunk it??? I stumbled upon it by accident tonight.

Now, I know there are a lot of strong opinions about her, and I'm not even going to get in to that. I just thought it was blog worthy because 100% of the money goes to support the arts for children.

Her offerings aren't my style by a long shot and I also think the prices are outrageous; even if she is famous and even though it's money for a good cause. Chalk it up to an interesting find. Maybe I'm the last one to know about it. I don't watch much TV and I don't follow her blog or anything. lol
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Free AirWick I-Motion Starter Kits

2009-04-03T00:33:00.007-05:00

Check your 3/15 Smart Source coupon inserts. Some areas got $5/1 AirWick I Motion starter kits and Walmart has these on rollback right now for $5! FREEBIE!
Other areas got a $4/1 coupon making them $1 each kit. That is still good if you use these because you can't even get the refills for the machine for $1!

Someone had given me 20 of these coupons and I hope to score some of these kits before the price goes back to $9.47

I think they'd go nicely in grown up Easter goody baskets for friends and relatives. Can't beat the price and they'll be so happy you thought of them. Win/win. =)

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My .08 each Kraft salad dressing stockpile.

2009-04-01T21:30:00.003-05:00

I went to WM today and bought 40 bottles of Kraft salad dressing. These were the ones that were only .08/bottle after coupon. I was even nice and gave my cashier a few of the coupons so she could get some for herself. Ain't I sweet! ;)

I had been waiting just for something like this to come along before stockpiling salad dressing. We go through it so fast that I wasn't about to pay full price! But eight cents a bottle I can do. lol

And I bet you're wondering if we can eat all this before it goes bad? Um, YES! Is isn't just for salads, you know. They make good meat marinades too. Besides that, left unopened they are actually still good for long past their (best by) date which shouldn't be confused for an expiration date.

And on a totally different subject...
Ryan and Miranda, your packages from the giveaway went postal today. Watch your boxes. =)

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

The MEGA Giveaway Winners Are....

2009-03-31T14:50:00.007-05:00

The Grand Prize winner of my MEGA Giveaway is.......................... RYAN !

Ryan got his entry in just at the last minute, lucky you! All the names were put into a basket and my DS drew your name first. Better to enter late than never, eh?

Watch your mailbox and please do let me know when it arrives. =)

The second place winner which I will receive a smaller package of goodies is Miranda.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*´¨)
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Oh man!!

2009-03-29T23:23:00.002-05:00

I LOVE to write. So when I decided to work on some meal planning I snuggled up on the sofa with my pen and a notebook. I complied a list of about 40 different lunches and dinners that we eat on a regular basis.

Well, now I can NOT find the notebook I wrote them in! GRR
That will teach me to do it on the computer and SAVE it next time.
It will take me a long, long time to remember it all over again. Sigh...
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Don't forget!

2009-03-29T17:55:00.002-05:00

I'll be drawing a name for the winner of my MEGA Giveaway on March 31st. You've still got the rest of today and tomorrow to get entered.

CVS trip 3/29/09

2009-03-29T17:26:00.003-05:00

Today I got $124.33 for $3.08 OOP total. I paid with $20.98 in ECBs and got back $19.99 in ECBs.

6 trial size Head & Shoulders
5 Johnson's Buddies Bars
2 Johnson's first aid kits
2 Glade Lasting Impressions
2 Glade Sense & Spray
2 Scrubbing Bubbles action scrubber kits
2 Accu-Chek glucose monitors
2 Veet hair removal kits
2 SoftSoap Ensembles refills
1 Scrubbing Bubbles action scrubber refill pads

I also went to WalMart and grabbed 6 more bags of the Iams puppy food. Woohoo! I am happy to say I was able to use ALL of my coupons and now have 45 FREE bags!
I also picked up 20 packs of Kotex Lightdays pantyliners for .25 each after coupon and I still have 10 coupons left. I've been buying them all month and have probably 100 packs easily now! lol
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Kraft Salad Dressing for 8 CENTS!

2009-03-28T13:13:00.003-05:00

Check your inserts tomorrow for 1.50/1 Kraft Salad Dressing 16 oz or larger.
Wal-Mart has these for 1.58! .08 for a bottle !

Good time to replenish your stockpile if you're running low, or if you are like me and were waiting for a time like this to start a little salad dressing stockpile in your cupboards. =)

Of course prices vary from region to region but $1.50 off each bottle should be a great deal even if they are a little higher at your location.

Since I no longer have access to a Sunday paper that carries the inserts I am considering picking some of these coupons up on ebay. There are still a couple of very reasonable BIN listings left.

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Why rain, why now?

2009-03-26T02:41:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow, or later today rather, I will be heading back home. I'm glad to be going home because my only other choice was to go to New York, NY with Chris. No thank you! Poor Chris, he doesn't want to go either as he hates it there, but he has to go where the job sends him.
As far as me driving home, the only snag is that they are calling for rain and lots of it. I'll have to drive in most of it after dark. Double yuck. No way around it though. Cross your fingers that i'll have safe travels. Thanks!
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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Twitter

2009-03-24T16:50:00.001-05:00

I signed up on Twitter last night. Still learning my way around. If you Twitter give a shout.

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

I've arrived.

2009-03-23T15:13:00.002-05:00

The trip to DC was completely uneventful, thank goodness! We got in around 10:30pm and I did some web surfing at HCW and for the 50th time I came across the thread about free Gillette body wash at Target.
Well, I had ignored it all month because 1. The bottles were 8.4 oz. (smallish) size and I was getting plenty of full size bottles free at CVS. And 2. NO Target anywhere around me where I live.

So, I came across the thread again and re-read it. I realized that I had a bunch of the $2/1 bodywash coupons expiring on the 31st, plus I know CVS isn't doing any more deals on it this month so the coupons were going to go to waste. I pulled out my handy dandy GPS and found there was a Target only 3 miles from the hotel. SCORE!

The hubs and I ran in and came out with 14 free bottles! The cashier didn't speak english very well but I could understand her well enough to hear her amazement, "That makes these all free." As she smiled.

I also went in on a tip that the Dove Go Fresh trial size deodorants were free after coupon as well, but all they had were the regular Dove so that was a no go.

If I have enough time I want to try out the Walgreens up here. There's a deal where you can get a Fusion razor and pack of Northern TP for $1.38 OOP after coupons and RR. If it works I'll have Chris go in and do it too. I never turn down a chance to save money on TP!

Hope you all are doing good. Did everyone get in on my giveaway? Remember the drawing is on the 31st. Scroll down for the post about it if you have not entered yet.

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

No CVS update today.

2009-03-21T23:12:00.003-05:00

If you came looking for my regular weekly CVS update, there isn't one. Two reasons; for one the ad this week was less than desirable and two, I've had a migraine headache ALL day. It is 3 Excedrin Migraine pills later and still throbbing. I'm about to go lay down and see if I can get lucky enough to fall asleep. Generally laying down makes my head ache worse, but I've tried every other option.

Also, Chris and I are heading to DC in the morning. He has an account up there and is also hoping to spend some time with his dad. A co-worker is also bringing his wife and it just so happens that she is a coupon fanatic too. We are both bringing our coupon satchels. LOL I've never met her before but I am hoping we hit it off. We already know we at least one thing in common.

One last thing...
If you have the IAMs Smart Puppy Or Kitten Food coupon- $5.00/1 - 3/31/09 from the 3/01 P&G RUN to Walmart and get your FREE 4lb. bag(s). They are on roll back this week. Even if the shelf tag shows the regular price, scan the bag. Some WM aren't openly advertising the roll back but once scanned they come up as $5 making them free with the coupon. I only wish they had done this sooner so that I could have gotten more, or had time to get more of the coupons before they expire. At least I was able to get a few bags this time. I usually miss out on the completely free dog/cat food.

Night all. See you in DC.

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Free, free, free, free, free!

2009-03-21T00:56:00.006-05:00

EDIT: Ok, I called Walmart corp. and let them know exactly what happened last night. The lady I spoke with said that they would contact the manager of that location, yada, yada, someone may get back in touch with me.
I don't know if anything will come of my call but I am hoping more than anything else it will save some frustrations for the next guy, or gal trying to use coupons. And at best that CSM needs to get a heavy warning.
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WHEW! I had my first BAD, no make that really bad experience using coupons tonight and it was at a WM of all places.

The CSM threw the biggest hissy fit and made accusations like I was trying to be shady with my coupons!

But beyond all that mess I did end up getting:
7 free bags of IAMS puppy food.
6 more free bags of 10ct. Schick razors (used the LAST of those coupons)
6 more Suave lotions free -(last of those too!)
5 J&J Softlotions free.
1 free Rimmel Sexy Curves mascara.
3 free J&J Reach dental floss.

Not free:
Pepto
Quaker snacks
and a pack of tweezers

I would have taken a picture to share with you, but I was so beyond livid from the nasty CSMs attitude that when I got home I just needed to put it away and try to calm down. Some people just don't understand that YES, you CAN end up getting stuff for free with coupons! She'd have really been pissed if I put back the stuff that wasn't free just to spite her. LOL

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Bored?

2009-03-19T13:20:00.002-05:00

Wanna play? I've added Pac-Man and Hangman to the bottom of my blog. Play all you want. =)

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆

Did you see my giveaway?

2009-03-18T14:37:00.000-05:00

Mega Giveaway!

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(¸.·´ (¸.·´★*¨¨*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆Kristie★*¨☆¨★*☆★*¨¨*☆