it's the little things

okay so over the last year I have tried to become a "couponer."  At the end of 2009 I reviewed our credit card bill, which we use for about everything and pay off every month (well in full disclosure, MOST of the time we pay in full, once in a while we don't), and I was appalled at the total on groceries, household items, eating out, gifts, clothes, etc.  Appalled.  No wonder we didn't have much in the bank!  So I jumped on the couponing bandwagon and I love it.  There is nothing like getting a full cart of groceries - INCLUDING milk, produce and some organic items - for $50.  The secret is buying items when they are on a great sale and combining it with coupons to get the item cheap or free.  And buying a lot of it, so you don't run out before the next great sale.

For instance, today I am going to run to ShopRite, my fave grocery, and buy Maxwell House coffee.  It is on sale for $1.99 and I have a $1 coupon (and I have 8 coupons) - so I will buy 8 at $1 each.  That's a great price for my preferred java.  They are normally at least $3.50.   When a store runs out of an item bc of a great sale, I get a raincheck and then buy it the next week w my coupons.  Because i highly doubt any men will read this blog other than my husband - if even he does - I'll also tell you that last week I paid .25 cents for each pack of Stayfree pads.  Somethings I won't pay for at all, because I have learned there will ALWAYS be a good sale to match a coupon - toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant, cosmetics, etc.   Even if they are not items I need or want for whatever reason, I donate them to our church's food bank.  And it feels great to fill a bag with high quality name brand items to give away!

I will let you know how I do at the store today.  If you want to get started couponing and don't know how to begin, check out Living Rich with Coupons - she has a GREAT site including a beginner section.

I hope anyone who reads this is blessed by someone or something today.  It sounds crazy that I view going to Shop Rite as a blessing - but I do.  It's the little things that add up to making life a little more enjoyable!