Thursday, January 20, 2011

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!

2 comments:

  1. Very nicely written Brynn...Keep up the good writing and remember, as tough as it may be, that God has allowed us to bring up His children and that he is ultimately in charge as long as we follow His voice, which it sounds like you recently heard loud and clear....

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  2. Good day for me at Shop Rite spent $67 but saved over $100. Used a lot of free product coupons up.

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