March 31, 2016
Lowe’s has finally produced their Spring Black Friday ad which is the one I’ve been waiting for quite impatiently. Most notably, the Miracle-Gro Garden Soil is on sale for $2.00 a bag. From what I’m seeing, I think I’m right that they’re phasing out the 1 cu ft bags and moving toward the .75 cu ft bags. The sale is on both sizes, but checking inventory online, the stores around my area do not have the 1 cu ft bags. I think it’s an effort to clear out the old size. I also think that’s why Walmart had their sale early–clear out old stock/sizes and make room for the new. This is just my theory. Time will tell if I’m right.
Lowe’s has several good deals in their special ad this week. I highly recommend you peruse through the entire ad to see what sales might be applicable to your upcoming projects. For example, if you need to do some fence repair, there are great deals to help with that.
Earlier this week, I signed up for Home Depot’s mobile notifications because they said I’d get a sneak peak at their Spring Black Friday ad. I have yet to see anything pertaining to it. In my opinion, their ad this week was unimpressive. I think they’re saving the best for their upcoming Spring Black Friday promotion (whenever that may be).
Deals of the Day:
Miracle-Gro Flower and Vegetable Garden Soil 1 cu ft or .75 cu ft
Sale price at Lowe’s 5 for $10. Sale price valid 5 days only–ends 4/4/16. Selection varies by location. While supplies last. (This is an exceptional buy if your store has the 1 cu ft bags. Looking online, no store around me has that size, but they have lots of the .75 bags which is still a good buy.)
Premium Mulch 2 cu ft
Sale price at Lowe’s 5 for $10. Sale price valid 5 days only–ends 4/4/16. Color and selection varies by location. While supplies last.
Bonnie Vegetable or Herb Peat Cup 19.3 oz
Sale price at Lowe’s 4 for $10. Sale price valid 5 days only–ends 4/4/16. Variety varies by location.
Click the above link to request a sample for your favorite kitty. They have been overwhelmed with requests. I was unable to order yesterday but successful today. While supplies last.
March 31: Get $1.31 scoops at Baskin-Robbins from 10am-10pm.
March 30, 2016
My hummingbird has returned! I am absolutely delighted to see that “Doris” has once again arrived at the farm this spring. She reappeared on Grandma’s birthday, so I decided to name her after my grandma, Doris Marjorie. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon when I first saw the small delicate bird flying around my autumn sage and petunias. At that moment, I realized my phone was inside, and of course, Sid was approaching the flower bed. Hoping there was even the slightest chance she’d still be there, I hurried inside to get my phone. By the time I got back, Sid was enjoying the garden, and there was no sign of Doris.
That evening, I was out taking pictures of the countless bees buzzing about the vibrant flower blooms. Doris appeared suddenly and took me completely off guard. Sitting on the ground in front of the bees, I quickly pointed the camera upward and was able to get one decent picture of her. Had I not been so startled, I might have been able to capture Doris with her beak in the flower blossom. Hopefully, Doris will be around for quite awhile, and I will have more opportunities to photograph her beauty.
Deals of the Day:
Extra Savings on Clearance Items at JCPenney
Save an extra 25% on already reduced 50-80% clearance items in store. Ends April 2. There’s also a coupon to save an additional 25% for using your JCPenney credit card or an additional 15% with any other form of payment. Click the above link for more information.
Kibbles ‘n Bits
Coupons.com has a new save $5.00 on one 31 lb bag of Kibbles ‘n Bits dry dog food manufacturer’s coupon available.
Mighty Dog Canned Dog Food
Price at Walmart $.60
Buy six $3.60
Save $2.00 on 6 cans of Mighty Dog dog food manufacturer’s coupon (-$2.00)
=$1.60/6 or $.27 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability may vary by location.
March 29, 2016
Mowing and trimming around these feature boxes is tedious. This year, I decided to take action. To start, I dug up the stray orange and yellow cosmos and planted them in my flower bed.
Utilizing the resources I had, I sawed branches (from the fallen tree) into logs to use as a border. Trust me, this entire project was well supervised from beginning to end.
With my broken hoe, I hacked up the weeds and sporadic clumps of grass. I then went to Home Depot and spent $6.00 on 3 bags of mulch.
Voila! My $6.00 landscape/mowing improvement project is complete. Time will tell if I should have placed weed barrier under the mulch. This particular area is small and has never been heavily covered in grass. My hope is that I will be able to manage any weeds that dare poke through the mulch. Before the sale on mulch ended, I did go back for more and picked up another bag with this area in mind. So it may end up being an $8.00 improvement. Regardless, I am very pleased with the result. Of course, it still had to pass inspection upon completion.
Much to Sid’s delight and my dismay, it proved a worthy outdoor privy for my dear furry friend.
Deals of the Day:
Garnier Fructis Shampoo, Conditioner or Stylers
Sale price at CVS 2 for $6.00
Buy two $6.00
Use two $1.00 off Garnier Fructis Products manufacturer’s coupons (-$2.00)
Pay $4.00
Earn $4.00 Extrabucks Rewards
= 2 for FREE!
*These are the coupons I suggested you print in my March 23rd post. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
$1 Hot Dogs at Sonic
March 30: Get $1 All American & Chili Cheese 6-inch Hot Dogs at Sonic. Mention offer when ordering. Limit 5.
New Coupons Available on Coupons.com:
$3.00 off 2 Bags of Starbucks Packaged Coffee or K-Cup Packs
Save $.75 off Any 1 Magnum Ice Cream Product
Save $10 on 2 Packages of Purina Pro Plan Renew Brand Cat Litter
Save $2.00 on Any 2 Suave Gold Hair Care Products (CVS may have upcoming deal next week: 2/$6 with $4 Extrabucks Rewards. Use the coupon, and they’re FREE!)
March 28, 2016
My Grandma Schmidt would have been 90 years old today. The petite gray haired woman always had a soft spot in her heart for cats and grew the most beautiful flower gardens all around her Minnesota farm house. Hands down, Grandma made the best fried chicken and apple pie. She was a kind woman and clearly had a sense of humor to put up with Grandpa’s continuous antics.
Recipes bind families together throughout the generations. Aside from countless memories, I have a few recipe cards from my grandma written in her handwriting. I treasure them dearly. My favorite is for a Danish Coffee Cake. It’s a recipe Grandma got from a member of her Circle at church. I hadn’t made it in years but decided to bake it this morning in honor of Grandma’s birthday. You can find Grandma Schmidt’s Danish Coffee Cake recipe on the Savoring Spring page of the main Recipes section. This isn’t a traditional coffee cake. In fact, my mom always called it Danish Kringler. Call it what you want. I call it delicious! It makes a tasty addition to your brunch buffet or a nice sweet companion to your midmorning coffee.
Deals of the Day:
Kmart Freebie Saturday
April 2: FREE Kids’ Art & Crafts Kit for children 12 and under while supplies last. Limit one.
April 2: Build a FREE butterfly house. Click the above link to find a workshop near you.
Lowe’s Build & Grow Kids Clinic
April 9: Build a FREE bird feeder. Click the above link to find a clinic near you.
March 27, 2016
Happy Happy Easter!!! Sid and I were up early on this joyous day. I had hoped to capture some special holiday pictures during sunrise. Unfortunately, the warm humid air was hanging so heavily in the sky it created a distinct haze which hid the sun. My feet were wet from the dew, and the mosquitoes were out with a vengeance, but the birds were wide awake and loudly singing their praises for all to hear. Sid was in his glory being able to spend his morning outside watching the birds and exploring the yard. May each of you find great joy on this blessed Easter day!
Deal of a Lifetime:
John 3:16
March 25, 2016
It’s official. I am the world’s worst neighbor! Monday the “For Sale” sign to the right went up, and Tuesday night the “Coming Soon” sign was pounded in on the left side. It truly breaks my heart to see such great neighbors leave. Of course I wish them all the best in their new endeavors, but they will be missed, and I will simply have to deal with my abandonment issues on my own…sniff…sniff…
I have started my wallowing by indulging in a batch of Springtime Filled Confetti Cookies. Multicolored candy sprinkles in the cookie dough and a fluffy pastel filling make these soft sandwich cookies a delightfully fun and festive springtime treat. While they are traditionally round, I decided to get a little more creative with Easter coming up this weekend. I made mine in bunny and carrot shapes. The recipe for these pretty and delicious Springtime Filled Confetti Cookies is found on the Savoring Spring page of the main Recipes section.
Eggceptional Deals of the Day:
Market Pantry Large Eggs 12 ct
Sale price $.99
50% off Cartwheel offer expires 3/26 (-$.50)
=$.49
*Limit is 10 per guest–generous as Cartwheel is usually limited to 4. Save an additional 5% with your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for each reusable bag you take and use. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
Green Mountain Coffee K-Cup Pods FREE Sample
Click the above link to request your FREE Sample.
Bass Pro Shops FREE Easter Events
Click the above link to find out what Easter activities will be going on at a Bass Pro Shops location near you.
Kmart Freebie Saturday
March 26: FREE Easter coloring sheets for kids 12 and under while supplies last. Limit 1.
March 24, 2016
Lots of Snow in Eau Claire, WI! Iced Windshield in Madison, WI! Sleet & Snow in Bethany, MO!
Watching the snow flurries through the window of my grandparents’ farm house in southern Minnesota, I couldn’t believe it was Easter. Since my family lived in Missouri, it was a rare and special treat to spend a holiday with extended family. Grandma and Grandpa would hide small oleo tubs filled with goodies for all of us grandkids to find on Easter morning. But this particular year, it was the snow in spring that mesmerized me. It was special. That did not typically happen in Missouri.
Obviously this year, the weather has a few surprises planned, and even Missouri is experiencing some northern inclinations. While there’s obviously no sign of snow here in Texas, high winds have prevailed the last few days, and a thunderstorm full of lightening rolled through around two o’clock this morning. The sun has quickly dried up the yard, but the wind continues to gust. Spring is my favorite season in Texas. It comes early, and I like that. Unfortunately it goes about as quickly as it comes and will soon give way to sweltering heat–right about the time those of you buried in snow today will be enjoying the onset of your springtime weather. On the bright side for now, those vibrantly colored Easter eggs should be easy to find on that glistening white blanket of snow!
Deals of the Day:
Canada Dry 2 Liters
Sale price at Walmart $.88
Buy two $1.76
Save $1.00 on two 2-liter bottles of Canada Dry manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
=$.76/2 or $.38 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability may vary by location.
CoverGirl Blast Mascara
Price at CVS $7.99
Buy two $15.98
CVS promotion: All CoverGirl cosmetics buy 1, get 1 50% off (-$4.00)
Use two $4.00 off 1 CoverGirl Blast Mascara manufacturer’s coupons (-$8.00)
=$3.98/2 or $1.99 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
March 23, 2016
Updated 8:25 pm
Happy Happy Spring from Austin, TX!
And a not so Happy Happy Spring from Eau Claire, WI!
Deals of the Day:
FREE Easter Coloring and Activity Pages
Click the above link to choose from several printable coloring pages and activity sheets.
Lipton Black or Herbal Tea 20 ct
Coupons.com has a new buy 1 Lipton Black or Herbal Tea 20 ct, get one FREE coupon available.
Colgate Optic White Toothpaste
Sale price at Walgreens $3.00
Save $.75 on any Colgate Optic White Toothpaste manufacturer’s coupon (-$.75)
Pay $2.25
Earn $2.50 in Register Rewards
= -$.25
*Click one of the above links to print your coupon. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
Garnier Fructis Shampoo, Conditioner or Stylers
This is a possible upcoming deal. Print your coupons now so you’re ready if it materializes.
Next week’s potential sale price at CVS 2/$6
Buy two $6.00
Use 2 save $1.00 off 1 Garnier Fructis hair product manufacturer’s coupons (-$2.00)
Pay $4.00
Earn $4.00 extrabucks rewards
=FREE
*Coupons available on coupons.com. Again, this is a potential upcoming deal. Just giving a head’s up in case it all comes together.
Featured Grocery Deals:
Prices, promotions, and availability may vary by location. Check your local ad.
Fareway
Cool Whip 8 oz $.77 (limit 2)
Fareway Butter 1 lb pkg $1.68 (limit 2)
Fareway Vegetables 14.5-15.25 oz cans $.28 (limit 6)
Lay’s Family Size Chips $1.88
Gordy’s
Kitchen Kleen Russet Potatoes 5 lb bag $.68 (limit 1)
Hormel Little Sizzlers 12 oz $.98 (limit 5)
Buy 5 select Kraft items, get $5 off (ex Kraft Shredded Cheese $2.48-$1.00=$1.48 with purchase of 5 mix or match items)
Buy any 2 select Chi-Chi’s items (tortilla shells, chips, salsa) 2/$3, get a dozen Our Family large eggs FREE.
Clipless Coupons: Kemp’s Sour Cream $.98, Kraft Cool Whip $.98
H-E-B
Head of Iceberg Lettuce $.89 each
Large Fresh Pineapple $1.77 each
Fresh Lemons 4 for $1.00
Buy H-E-B Soft Drinks 12 pk ($2.25), get H-E-B Wavy Potato Chips 11 oz FREE with in-store coupon.
New Earth Hardwood Mulch 2 cu ft bag 5 for $10 while supplies last (sale extended)
Outdoor Solutions Potting Soil 1 cu ft bag 5 for $10 while supplies last (sale extended)
Texas Grown 4″ Blooming Annuals $.50 each
Hy-Vee
Kraft Cool Whip 8 oz $.88
Hy-Vee All Purpose Flour 5 lb $1.68 plus earn $.01 off per gallon fuel saver
Hy-Vee Butter 16 oz $1.88 (Limit 2)
Lay’s Family Size or Tostitos Cantina Chips 9-12 oz $1.88
Hy-Vee Single Serve Beverages (K-cups) 12 ct $4.99 plus earn $.05 off per gallon fuel saver
Target
Market Pantry Large Eggs 12 ct $.99 (Get an extra 5% off with Market Pantry Eggs Cartwheel offer, save an additional 5% with your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for taking and using your own bag.)
March 22, 2016
Yesterday was one of my favorite shopping days of the year–veggie plants! This season, I set out to get six Black Krim, one Sungold, a Mortgage Lifter, and four spontaneously chosen tomato plants. As with every great plan, it was absolutely worthless. My Black Krim tomatoes were not in stock this year, and neither were the Sungold cherry tomato plants. At least going to the H-E-B Plus garden center offered an array of plants from three different vendors at three different price points, so given the selection, I am trying several different varieties: Black Prince, Purple Cherokee, Lemon Boy, Mortgage Lifter, Tycoon, Valleycat (in honor of Sid), Bush Early Girl, Brandywine, Sweet 100 Cherry, and Juliet. Tam Jalapenos were also on the list, and I was able to find two of them. My younger brother loves pepperoni and banana pepper pizza, so I was inspired to try growing sweet banana peppers this year as well.
Overall, I am attempting to plant more from seed this year and hope that the plants develop and do well in a timely manner. In particular, this is a definite change in approach to my zucchini crop. From seed, I hope to grow more plants and increase my yield. I’m also trying green beans, beets, carrots, and basil from seed. It’s a little late to be planting some of these crops, but I have leftover seeds I’d like to use.
Last night I had the privilege of giving a farm tour to my neighbor and his family. What joy it was to talk plant speak with fellow gardeners. The exchange was lively and fun. I think they have me talked into trying to grow eggplant. I debated about getting a starter plant earlier that morning but decided against it since I have no idea how to cook it. For me, it just conjures up horrible memories of tofu eggplant parmesan served in the cafeteria when I was in college. Blech! My neighbor’s sister assured me it really is delicious and that she could assist with recipes. I know it’s a popular crop on the garden and cooking shows. So maybe I will give it a go.
This morning Sid and I worked really hard around the farm. The last of the veggie seeds were planted, and then it was time to shift focus to the flowers. In an effort to clean out my flower boxes and tidy up stray plants, I transplanted several flowers into the in-ground flower bed. Hopefully they will survive their current state of transplant shock and thrive. I had previously planted seeds in the flower garden, so I hope I didn’t disturb them too much. I am finding that planting by seed is quite challenging when you have a farm cat who loves to dig and explore. Once the flower boxes were cleaned up, I filled them with marigold seeds. Here’s hoping for massive blooms in late spring and well into summer!
Deals of the Day:
Outdoor Solutions Potting Soil 1 cu ft
On sale at H-E-B 5 for $10 through 3/22/16.
New Earth Hardwood Mulch 2 cu ft
On sale at H-E-B 5 for $10 through 3/22/16.
Purina Friskies Cat Concoctions Wet Cat Food
Price at Target $.49
Buy two $.98
25% off Friskies treats/16 lb dry/wet can Cartwheel offer (-$.26)
Use a buy one get one FREE Purina Friskies Cat Concoctions manufacturer’s coupon (-$.49)
=$.23/2 or roughly $.12 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com and in recent coupon circulars. My Target Cartwheel offer took off $.13 per can which is a penny off from my math calculations, but I used what actually happened at the register. This particular Target seems to be taking a closer look at coupons lately. In this case, they did manually put in the $.49 savings as that was their original price. That is correct. However, in the past, I’ve seen coupons go through at the max value savings vs actual price at the store. Save an additional 5% by using your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for every reusable bag you take and use.
$1.00 Hot Dogs at Sonic
March 23: Get All American & Chili Cheese 6-inch Hot Dogs for a $1.00 at Sonic. Mention the offer when ordering. Limit 5. Offer good at participating locations while supplies last.
Sid’s Deal of the Day
Coupons.com now has a buy 5 pouches of Fancy Feasts Broths Gourmet Cat Food, get one pouch FREE manufacturer’s coupon available. Sid loves the Classic Chicken & Vegetables in a Decadent Silky Broth.
March 19, 2016
It’s much cooler and very windy here today. The sudden shift in weather isn’t the only change we’re experiencing this time of year. I took this photo a week ago. Over the last seven days, spring has taken over, and everything is so much greener. It’s amazing how quickly the foliage comes to life. And as we enjoy and celebrate the gift of life, I’d like to wish my dad a very Happy Birthday today!
Deals of the Day:
Feed a Bee FREE Wildflower Seed Packet
Click the above link to request your FREE seed packet. Simply click “Send Me Free Seeds” in the lower right corner and fill out the form. Offer good while supplies last.
FREE Palm Sunday Coloring Pages
Click the above link to select and print Palm Sunday inspired coloring pages.
March 18, 2016
Sid and I are getting pretty eager to get our vegetable garden planted. Between rain, getting sick, and a lack of adequate plant inventory, we’re about 2 weeks late already. My hope was to get the veggie plants purchased and planted early this week after finally getting my garden soil last weekend. I almost placed an order online with Johnson’s Backyard Garden for tomato plants but backed off and decided to see what they had at the farmer’s market. Turns out they didn’t bring any to the market–you had to pre-order online. Strike one. Ok, I will go to H-E-B on Monday and get some plants there. Nope. Spent the first half of the week very ill. Strike two. I was finally able to leave the house yesterday and went to H-E-B. They barely had any plants let alone all of the unique varieties they carried last year. Strike three.
I may be down, but definitely not out yet. My next attempt will be to go back to the H-E-B Plus with the huge garden center. They had a decent inventory the last time I was there, but it was too early to plant at that time, and my boxes still needed soil. I just hope they have the varieties I’m really wanting.
Overall, things in the gardening realm seem off this year. The inventory isn’t in the stores, and the sales aren’t there like they were last year. H-E-B doesn’t appear to be bothering with sales but rather pricing their veggie plants lower from the start, and that’s just fine by me. With them, the issue is simply inventory at my local store. The big box stores are carrying different sized bags of garden soil, and I’m wondering if there are some overall packaging/marketing changes in progress. Perhaps I’m wrong and the best is yet to come, but the main players in the game are not nearly as aggressive as early this year. I still expect a strong garden ad around Memorial Day, but here, that’s too late.
Looking through this week’s Home Depot and Lowes ads, I’ve noted their promotions on garden soil and offered my thoughts on each.
Advertised Garden Soil Deals:
Lowes
Sta-Green 1 cu ft Flower & Vegetable Soil 5 for $10
Read the reviews on this product before purchasing. The price is awesome, but the description and best use of this product described in the reviews definitely did not meet my needs, so I was willing to pay an additional $.50 a bag for Miracle-Gro.
Miracle-Gro 1.5 cu-ft Vegetables & Herbs Garden Soil 2 for $12
The bag indicates moisture control. What is of note is that this is a 1.5 cu ft bag. For comparison’s sake: $6=1.5 cu ft, $4=1 cu ft, $3=.75 cu ft.
Home Depot
Miracle-Gro .75 cu ft All Purpose Garden Soil 3 for $10
Note the size of the bag. I for one am used to comparing prices for 1 cu ft bags. My guess is most people will look at prices and assume a 1 cu ft bag. This is .75 cu ft for $3.33 which would come out to $4.44 for 1 cu ft or $6.66 for 1.5 cu ft. It’s also the All Purpose Garden Soil vs the Garden Soil for Flowers and Vegetables. I’m not sure of the differences between the two other than the descriptions indicate the latter one is good for herbs too. Personally, I’ve always used the Garden Soil for Flowers and Vegetables.
Miracle-Gro Nature’s Care Organic Garden Soil and Nature’s Care Raised Bed Soil 1.5 cu ft bags $6.00 each
These bags of soil were not advertised in the weekly ad. I found them while viewing Home Depot’s website. They fall more in line price-wise with the sale at Lowes.
So what is the bottom line? A typical 2 cu ft bag of Miracle-Gro Garden & Vegetable Soil is regularly priced at around $7.97 a bag. A 1 cu ft bag is usually $4.97. Based on that, I don’t think this week’s advertised prices are that great unless there are special characteristics to the Vegetable & Herbs soil or the Nature’s Care products above and beyond that of the standard Garden & Vegetable soil. My tip is to always consider the size of the bag being advertised when seeing a sale price. So far, Walmart’s $2.50 for 1 cu ft bag has been the best sale by far (that ad ended last Saturday).
Sid and I are dodging raindrops today trying desperately to get the lawn at least partially mowed. The weeds are flourishing this spring and get tall fast. My mower is struggling since the grass is wet, so I will simply do the best I can for now. I really want to get the yard cleaned up in order to focus on my vegetable garden, yet I remain grateful for the rain.
Deals of the Day:
Hardwood Mulch 2 cu ft
Home Depot Special Buy: 5 for $10
Bonnie Vegetable Plants 4″, 4.5″ & 5″ Peat Pots
Home Depot Special Buy: 4 for $10
Price at Target $.69
Buy two $1.38
Save $1.00 off any 2 Ortega products manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
=$.38/2 or $.19 each
*Click one of the above links to get your coupon from Ortega. Price may vary by location. Save an additional 5% with your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for every reusable bag you take and use.
Oral-B Twin Pack Toothbrushes
Possible deal next week:
Price at CVS $4.99
Buy two $9.98
Save $1.50 off 2 Oral-B adult manual toothbrushes manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.50)
Pay $8.48
Earn $10 extrabucks rewards (-$10.00)
= -$1.52
*Coupon available on coupons.com. This is a possible upcoming deal. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
Colgate Total Toothpaste
Possible deal next week:
Price at Walgreens $3.00
Save $1.00 on any Colgate Total manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
Pay $2.00
Earn $2.50 register reward
= -$.50
*Coupon available on coupons.com. This is a possible upcoming deal. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
March 17, 2016
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! I found a beautiful head of cabbage while visiting the Farmer’s Market this weekend, and since St. Paddy’s Day was rapidly approaching, I couldn’t resist it. Now, I don’t believe I’ve ever cooked a cabbage. I think you boil it (Isn’t there a song “Boil Them Cabbage Down”?), but my aunt just sent me a recipe where you saute the cabbage in butter. So here I am stranded on my kitchen island staring at my very own Irish cruciferous Wilson (think Tom Hanks in Cast Away) wondering where to begin. When I think of cooking cabbage, Cabbage Au Gratin is the first dish that comes to mind. Growing up, I remember loving this tasty side dish. Like me, it’s cheesy and a people pleaser. My aunt’s recipe sounds absolutely delicious, but I didn’t have all of the ingredients, so I decided to stick with trying to make Mom’s Cabbage Au Gratin recipe. You can see how my first attempt went at making this family classic on the Savoring Spring page of the main Recipes section.
Deals of the Day:
March 17: In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, Sonic is offering 1/2 price shakes.
$1.00 Short Stack of Pancakes at IHOP
March 17: Wear green to IHOP today, and get a short stack of buttermilk pancakes for a buck. (7 am-7 pm)
Irish Spring Body Wash
Update from March 10th’s post: CVS has the Irish Spring Body Wash on sale for $3.99 with a $2.00 extrabucks reward with the purchase of one. Coupons.com has a save $1.00 on any 1 Irish Spring Body Wash coupon available. Now here’s where the luck of the Irish may be on your side, it’s possible that a $2.00 off 2 Irish Spring Bar Soap or Body Wash coupon may print at the in-store coupon center. If so, buy 2. Use two $1.00 off manufacturer’s coupons and the $2/2 in-store coupon. Earn $4.00 in extrabucks rewards. It washes out to FREE! (Like my pun?!)
Update: I went to CVS today (3/17), and the in-store Irish Spring coupon did not print for me. The machine did however print a save $2/2 Colgate or any toothpaste coupon. Since I was going in for the toothpaste deals posted 3/13, that extra coupon was awesome!
March 16, 2016
Sweet Treats! I hope all of you got your FREE ice cream cone from Dairy Queen yesterday. While I have yet to receive mine, the Twinings tea samples are starting to arrive. And what might go well with tea and ice cream you’re probably asking yourself–why Chocolate Mint Brownies of course! Using a stellar brownie base, topped with a light green creamy mint layer, and finally covered in smooth rich chocolate, these brownies will please everyone this St. Patrick’s Day. This delectable recipe is found on the Savoring Spring page of the main Recipes section. With the great grocery sales up north this week, it’s a great time to get baking!
Deals of the Day:
March 16: Get an All American or Chili Cheese 6-inch hot dog for $1.00 at participating locations. Must mention offer when ordering.
FREE St. Patrick’s Day Coloring Pages
Click the above link to print St. Patrick’s Day coloring pages from Crayola.
Nestle Toll House Morsels
Coupons.com has a new save $.50 when you buy 1 Nestle Toll House Morsels coupon available.
Dannon Oikos Crunch
Price at Target $1.14
Buy three $3.42
50% off Dannon Oikos Cartwheel offer (-$1.71)
Save $1.00 on any 3 Oikos Crunch single serve cups manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
=$.71/3 or $.24 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location. Save an additional 5% by using your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for every reusable bag you take and use.
Grocery Picks:
Gordy’s produced the best ad, but overall, the ads were much better this week. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location. Check your local ad.
Gordy’s
Our Family Grade A Large Eggs 1 dozen $.68 (limit 1)
Our Family Flour 5 lb OR Our Family Sugar 4 lb $1.48 (limit 1)
Our Family Brown Sugar or Powdered Sugar 2 lb $.98 (limit 2)
Hershey’s Baking Chips 12 oz $1.48 (must buy 2, limit 2)
Our Family Creamery Butter 1 lb $1.98 (limit 1)
Hormel Black Label Bacon 12-16 oz $2.98 (limit 2)
Hy-Vee
Fresh Green Cabbage $.29/lb
Midwest Country Fare Granulated Sugar 4 lb $1.58
Hy-Vee Shredded Natural Cheese 3 for $5.00
Hy-Vee Macaroni & Cheese Dinner $.39
H-E-B
5 lb bag of Russet Potatoes $1.59 (check your ibotta app for a $.25 any brand potatoes rebate)
2 lb bag of Red Onions $1.59
Personal Pineapple $.98
Boston Butt Pork Roast $1/lb
Ball Heritage Collection Purple Pint or Quart Jars 6 pk save 40% with in-store coupon
Fareway
Fareway Shredded or Chunk Cheese 8 oz 3/$4.00 (great deal if the cheese is decent quality)
Jif Peanut Butter 16 oz $1.88
Crystal Sugar 4 lb $1.68 (limit 2)
March 15, 2016
Springtime celebrations are rapidly approaching, and that means fun and food with friends and family. One of my absolute favorite sweet and refreshing sides has always been Cottage Cheese Pineapple Salad. Light, fluffy and green in color, it’s perfect to serve for St. Patrick’s Day or Easter dinner. This lime and pineapple flavored salad is easy to make and tastes delicious, so be sure to check out this awesome recipe on the Savoring Spring page of the main Recipes section. I highly recommend it.
Deals of the Day:
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Luscious Mascara
Coupons.com has a new $3.00 off 1 Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Luscious Mascara coupon available.
Arnott’s Tim Tam Cookies
Sale price at Target 2 for $6.00 or $3.00 each
40% off Arnott’s Tim Tam cookies Cartwheel offer (-1.20)
Save $.50 on any 1 package of Arnott’s Tim Tam cookies manufacturer’s coupon (-$.50)
=$1.30
*Manufacturer’s coupon available on coupons.com. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location. Save an additional 5% with your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for every reusable bag you take and use.
Tombstone Pizza
Price at Walmart $2.50
Buy two $5.00
Save $1 on any 2 Tombstone pizzas manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
=$4.00/2 or $2.00 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability may vary by location.
March 14, 2016
Sid and I got some really exciting news last week. After submitting one of my garden photographs to Central Texas Gardener, I received an email from the producer minutes later saying she’d like to use it on the television show. I was beyond thrilled. They have several other viewer pictures ahead of mine, so I am waiting for her to contact me with an air date. Considering it’s been a secret dream of mine to get my yard and gardens to the point where they’d come and do a feature segment on it (I’m so far from that!), this is a pretty amazing event for me. I will be sure to keep you posted when I hear more information. In the meantime, you can get a sneak peek at the photo which is one of the three I posted on March 3.
Deals of the Day:
Kraft Natural Shredded Cheese 6-8 oz
Sale price at Target 3 for $6.00
Save 10% off Kraft Natural Shredded Cheese Cartwheel offer
=$1.80 each
*Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location. Save an additional 5% by using your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for every reusable bag you take and use.
Select DVDs
Sale price at Target $4.00
Save 10% off all movies, music & books Cartwheel offer (-$.40)
=$3.60
*The dvd titles featured in the ad appear to be for kids and the young at heart. At this price, one would make a nice item to stick in an Easter basket. Remember, you can save an additional 5% by using your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for every reusable bag you take and use. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
Rimmell London Eye Shadow
Price at Dollar Tree $1.00
$1.00 off any Rimmell London eye, face or lip product manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
=FREE
*Coupon available on redplum.com. Availability does vary by location.
Kmart Freebie Saturday
March 19: FREE Peeps for kids 12 and under while quantities last.
March 24: Kids can build a Jimmie Johnson pullback car. Click the above link for more information.
March 13, 2016
Yesterday began with an early trip to Cedar Park, TX, for their local farmer’s market, a haircut, and my dirt! I was eager to get the 30 bags of Miracle-Gro garden soil home and knew Sid was anxiously awaiting his chance to go outside after being cooped up for days. The garden center staff was very friendly and helpful. I wish they could have followed me to the house to help unload, but where’s the fun in that?!
Ripping open bag after bag, I filled my garden boxes and added soil to the in-ground flower bed. My remaining half of a hoe (see Feb 16th post) helped spread and even out the dirt. At this point, I have five remaining bags. My dilemma is whether I use them to go ahead and tackle all of my intended projects with an adequate amount of soil or if I really build up the most important ones.
Exhausted and dirty, I gave up for the day. I later went outside to take some photographs. Much to my dismay, there were “sasquatch” tracks in my once smooth soil. Who or what could possibly be responsible for this dirt disruption? While I love my new haircut, I don’t think I was doing it justice after hauling the 30 dirty bags.
Sid and I went back outside today. I sowed shasta daisy, gaillardia, and marigold seeds in the flower bed. I am pleased to see how many bees are consistently buzzing about the flowers. It makes me a little nervous working around them, but I also feel like I’m doing something right if my garden is attracting them. So far, as long as I don’t bother them, they’re leaving me alone. Next up…veggies!
Deals of the Day:
Covergirl + Olay Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation FREE Sample
Click the above link and fill out the form to receive your FREE sample.
Crest Pro-Health or 3D White Toothpaste 4-4.2 oz
Sale price at CVS $3.00
Save $1.00 with Crest Pro-Health coupon or Crest 3D White coupon (-$1.00)
Pay $2.00
Earn $2.00 extrabucks rewards
=FREE
*Price, promotion and availability may vary by location. Coupons.com has 2 different coupons available. Offer limit of 2 per household with card.
Colgate Total Toothpaste
Sale Price at CVS $3.39
Save $1.00 on any Colgate Total manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
Pay $2.39
Earn $2.50 extrabucks rewards
=FREE
*Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location. Coupon available on coupons.com.
March 11, 2016
Sid is starting to go a little stir crazy with all of the rain. I just caught him poking his head through the blinds on the back door. He desperately wants to go outside and play. I too am a bit disappointed today as I had hoped to finally get my garden soil, but the continued showers sidelined that plan. Tomorrow is a new day, and while we are thankful for all of the rain, Sid and I are wishing for some sunshine and dirt. In the meantime, Sid will have to settle for kicking back on the couch.
This afternoon, I did venture out to Target to pick up a few supplies and take advantage of some of this week’s bargains. Here’s a great big shout out to the Pepperidge Farm Cookie Guy who searched his boxes to find the on-the-go packs of Milano cookies for me. You rock Cookie Guy!
Deals of the Day:
March 15: Get a small vanilla cone at participating non-mall locations. Offer good all day. Limit 1 per person.
March 17: Wear something green and get a short stack of buttermilk pancakes for $1.00. (7 am-7 pm)
March 10, 2016
A couple of weeks ago one of my favorite garden-inspired television shows, Central Texas Gardener, featured a segment on garden stretches. I absolutely loved the concept. It poured rain yesterday, so Sid and I decided to create our very own “Garden Stretches with the Farm Cat” video. This was our first attempt at creating a video of ourselves without help, and well, is a pretty accurate depiction of us. My phone ran out of memory, so I never got through all of my stretches. I then tried recording it in smaller segments. While I was doing that, Sid got bored and took a nap. So here is take #1:
My nephew has since told me I had the phone the wrong way. Perhaps we should leave it to the professionals!
Deals of the Day:
Purex Liquid Detergent 43.5-50 oz.
Sale price at CVS $1.99
Save $.50 on any 1 Purex Liquid or PowerShot Detergent 30 oz or larger manufacturer’s coupon (-$.50)
=$1.49
*Coupon available in this week’s coupon circular. Price and availability may vary by location.
Easter M&M’s
Check your local CVS to see if they have the 9.9-12.6 oz bags on sale 2 for $5.00 with the $1.00 in extrabucks rewards promotion. Coupons.com has a couple of $1.00 off 2 select Mars products coupons available. I would print both. While they are both manufacturer’s coupons, people have said CVS may not accept the one that says available at Walmart. The potential deal is 2 bags for $3.00 or $1.50 each.
Balmex Diaper Rash Cream
Coupons.com has a new save $2.00 on any Balmex diaper rash cream (2 oz, 4 oz or 16 oz) manufacturer’s coupon available. Walmart is said to carry the 4 oz for $3.98.
Irish Spring Body Wash
Looking ahead to next week, you may want to go ahead and print the save $1.00 on any 1 Irish Spring body wash manufacturer’s coupon from coupons.com. CVS appears to be putting it on sale for $3.99 with a $2.00 extrabucks rewards promotion. Add in your coupon, and you’re looking at $.99.
Sid’s Deal of the Day:
You & Me Loveseat Cat Scratcher
Today only, Petco has 40% off select cat furniture. This particular piece looks perfect for Sid. He can claw his own couch!
March 9, 2016
Beautiful buds are bursting out of my red bud tree. Such a lovely sight to see. Sid was more impressed with the lizard who had the misfortune of sitting right below the threshold just as we were stepping out the back door. The unsuspecting anole didn’t stand a chance against the mighty hunter Sid.
Here in Central Texas, we have just passed the frost date so it’s time to get serious about planting that vegetable garden. Last year, I was thrilled to find several interesting varieties of tomato plants at H-E-B. Today’s new ad shows H-E-B’s Texas Fresh Veggie Plants for $1.50 each which is the price I saw them at earlier this week. It’s a great price, but I admit I was hoping for a bonus buy for purchasing a certain quantity, etc.
I’ve also been considering trying a new source for some of my tomato plants this year. Johnson’s Backyard Garden is a thriving CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) serving the Austin area. As a CSA, they primarily sell shares to people who in turn get a box of fresh organic produce from the farm weekly. Right now, they’re also promoting their JBG Transplants Sale. It’s an opportunity for us backyard gardeners to obtain some of their certified organic transplants. The event at their farm this weekend sounds like a lot of fun. At the moment, I still need to figure out what benefits are strictly held for their members and what they offer to the general public. I will be near one of their farmers’ market locations soon so may stop by and check out what they have available for nonmembers. We shall see, but I do like the idea of supporting local agriculture.
Tomorrow the new Home Depot and Lowe’s ads should be available. Here’s hoping for exceptional deals on garden soil! If not, I for one will be headed to Walmart for the $2.50 bags before that sale ends. Time to get planting!
Deals of the Day:
Meow Mix Irresistibles Cat Treats
Price at Target $1.49 each
Buy two $2.98
15% off Meow Mix Irresistibles Cartwheel offer (-$.44)
Save $1.00 off 2 Meow Mix Irresistibles Cat Treats manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
=$1.54/2 or $.77 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location. Save an additional 5% by using your Target REDcard, and earn a $.05 credit for every reusable bag you take and use.
Playtex Sport Pads, Liners or Combo Pack
A new save $2.00 on 1 Playtex Sport Pads, Liners or Combo Pack manufacturer’s coupon is now available on coupons.com. CVS has select Playtex items on sale for $7.99 with a $3.00 extrabucks rewards offer. Walmart is said to have some qualifying items starting at $3.97.
Grocery Picks
Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location. Check your local ads.
Gordy’s:
Kemp’s 6 ct Ice Cream Sandwiches $.98 (Limit 2)
Our Family Shredded Cheese 8 oz $1.48 (Limit 3)
Hy-Vee:
Green Cabbage $.29/lb
Hy-Vee Grade A Fresh Large Eggs $1.38 dozen
H-E-B:
Texas Fresh Veggie Plants $1.50 each
Select Bic Disposable Shavers 4-12 ct–Save $1.25 with in-store coupon
Fresh Ground Chuck (80% lean, club pack) $2.97/lb
Fareway:
Fresh Cabbage $.29/lb
Betty Crocker Russet Potatoes 10lb bag $1.88 with coupon found in ad (Limit 1)
Starkist Tuna 5 oz can $.68
March 8, 2016
“May you always have work for your hands to do. May your pockets hold always a coin or two. May the sun shine bright on your windowpane. May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain. May the hand of a friend always be near you. And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.”
–Irish Blessing
It seems like a lifetime ago when I met Molly Malone on the streets on Dublin. With St. Patrick’s Day on the horizon, it’s fun to reflect on my time in Ireland and embrace the luck of the Irish. Of course every great holiday celebration needs delicious food. Using Irish-inspired ingredients (potatoes & cabbage), St. Paddy’s Hash Bash Casserole makes a tasty and balanced St. Patrick’s Day supper. Check out this clever recipe on the new Savoring Spring page of the main Recipes section. I hope you enjoy it.
Deals of the Day:
Marley Coffee
Ibotta Offers:
$2.00 rebate on Marley Coffee any variety 10, 12 or 16 ct single serve capsule box (H-E-B, Target, Natural Grocers, Randalls, etc)
$1.50 rebate on Marley Coffee any variety 8 oz bag (H-E-B, Natural Grocers, etc.)
Coupons:
$2.00 off Marley single cup coffee 10-12 ct assorted varieties H-E-B in-store coupon
Save $1.50 on any 1 Marley Coffee product manufacturer’s coupon
Save $4.00 when you buy any 2 Marley Coffee products manufacturer’s coupon
Check your ibotta app to find out what stores near you have the rebates available. Click the above links to print your manufacturer’s coupons. Being able to combine a generous ibotta offer and a high value coupon makes it a good time to try Marley Coffee!
Hershey’s Singles, Cadbury Egg & Other Select Varieties
Sale price at CVS $.99
$.74 instant in-store coupon
=$.25
*Scan your ExtraCare Card at the in-store Coupon Center for coupon. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
$.89 Jr. Deluxe Cheeseburgers at Sonic
March 9: Get $.89 Jr. Deluxe Cheeseburgers all day at Sonic. Limit 5. Must mention offer when ordering. Offer good at participating locations while supplies last.
March 7, 2016
Composting has always intimidated me. Living behind a horse farm, I worried a compost pile would attract pests. I have seen opossums in my yard at night, and I know there are field mice which would in turn attract the dreaded rattlesnake. My composting ignorance has also made me nervous about knowing when it’s completely composted and safe to use on the garden.
Despite my concerns, I’ve always retained a curiosity about composting. Every great gardening show talks about it as part of the gardening process. To them, composting is simply a given. This year’s need for so much additional soil has finally tipped the scales in favor of trying it myself. I began by simply dumping food scraps in a pile in the backyard. I empty every k-cup of its coffee grounds and save each tea bag to add to the pile. Perhaps what has surprised me the most about composting is actually seeing how the cycle connects. I go to my garden to harvest, I prepare the fresh vegetables, and return the waste to the compost pile. I had never taken the time to realize the brilliance of the process.
Now committed to composting, I wanted to contain it better in my yard without any expense. Upcycling one of Sid’s kitty litter buckets, I have created a small compost bin. I was amazed at how quickly I filled it with my pile of scraps and leaves. It’s time to make a couple more, and I truly regret recycling several of the lids a few weeks ago. Sid has since changed the type of litter he uses, so I haven’t been buying any new buckets.
I do hope my new DIY Composter works well for my little farm. Keeping food waste out of the garbage and putting it back into nature is definitely a win-win situation. It’s also another way I’m keeping my resolution #2 Recycling More. If you’d like to build your own bucket composter, check out the new DIY Composter page of the main Yard & Garden section for instructions.
Sid and I went out early this morning to take pictures of the compost bin we made this weekend. Initially it was quite pleasant outside, but as time went on the humidity began to build. Storms are headed our way. My “quick” little photo shoot took a bit longer than expected as the farm cat felt he had more chores to complete before he could return to the house. He even played the “take my picture for the blog” card–anything to keep his furry self outside. Ultimately, the smile faded and the harsh reality became apparent.
Deals of the Day:
Purina Friskies Cat Concoctions Wet Cat Food
Coupons.com now has a buy 1, get 1 FREE coupon available.
Air Wick Scented Oil Warmer Kit
Coupons.com has a $1.00 off 1 Air Wick Scented Oil Warmer Kit coupon available. Target’s online price is $1.37. Walmart and Dollar General are said to carry the item for around $1.00.
Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner Clinging Bleach Gel
Price at Target $1.99
Buy five $9.95
5% off Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaners Cartwheel offer (-$.40)
Use 2 save $1.00 off any 2 Clorox branded products manufacturer’s coupons (-$2.00)
Pay $7.55
Earn a $5.00 Target gift card for purchasing 5 (-$5.00)
=$2.55/5 or $.51 each
*Cartwheel offer limited to 4 items. Coupons available on coupons.com. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location. Save an additional 5% by using your Target REDcard, and earn an additional $.05 credit for every reusable bag you take and use.
Colgate Total Toothpaste
Sale price at CVS $2.99
Save $2.00 on Colgate Total manufacturer’s coupon (-$2.00)
Pay $.99
Earn $1.00 in extrabucks rewards (-$1.00)
=FREE
*Coupon is the one I told you to print last week. It has since been replaced with a $1.00 off coupon on coupons.com. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
Palmolive Dish Liquid 10 oz
Sale price at CVS $.99
Save $.25 on any Palmolive Dish Liquid manufacturer’s coupon (-$.25)
=$.74
*Price and availability may vary by location.
Speed Stick Deodorant
Sale price at CVS 2 for $5.50
Buy two $5.50
Use 2 save $.50 on any Speed Stick Antiperspirant/Deodorant manufacturer’s coupons (-$1.00)
Pay $4.50
Earn $2.50 in extrabucks rewards (-$2.50)
=$2.00/2 or $1.00 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.
Right Guard Xtreme Antiperspirant Deodorant
Sale price at CVS $3.49
Save $2.00 off 1 Right Guard Xtreme Antiperspirant Deodorant product manufacturer’s coupon (-$2.00)
=$1.49
*Coupon available on redplum.com and in most of this week’s coupon circulars. Price and availability may vary by location.
Kmart Freebie Saturday
March 12: FREE Easter Bunny Ears for kids 12 and under while supplies last.
Home Depot Kids Workshop
April 2: Build a FREE butterfly house.
March 4, 2016
After seeking out the nearest early voting location last week, I realized how close I live to a relatively new Walmart. Since its not very far away, I decided to make a quick trip this morning to try and take advantage of a few deals. I was delighted to find vegetable and flower seed packets for only $.20 each. While they probably don’t contain a lot of seeds, the inexpensive packets will enable me to try more varieties of produce. I’m also excited to add a couple of new perennials to my flower garden.
The TRESemme Youth Boost Ibotta rebate reset after I purchased the conditioner earlier this week. Since the conditioner seems to work really well, I decided to pick up the shampoo to go with it. Only this time, I had a manufacturer’s coupon to make the deal a money maker.
After the joy of finding those special buys, things went south from there. This particular Walmart does not accept internet coupons which really is to bad. That unexpected turn of events ruined my deal on Frigo string cheese. They’re most unfortunate policy also had a negative affect on my Tai Pei Wrap deal. I was disappointed, but thats just how it goes sometimes.
Sid was eager for me to get home so that we could go outside. I mowed the backyard and mulched around one of my tree saplings. It always feels good to get the yard cleaned up again. I’m sure we’ll be back outside before this National Grammar Day is done. For fun, I have deliberately made five grammar mistakes in the above post. Did you notice? If you find more than five, give yourself extra credit and keep it to yourself. The grammar corrections are found after the deals of the day.
Deals of the Day:
Red Baron Pizza
Price at Walmart $2.98
Buy two $5.96
Save $1.00 on any 2 Red Baron Pizzas manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
Pay $4.96
Submit $1.00 Ibotta rebate (-$1.00)
=$3.96/2 or $1.98 each
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability may vary by location.
FREE IHOP Pancakes
March 8: Get a FREE short stack of buttermilk pancakes on National Pancake Day. In exchange, IHOP hopes you will make a donation to the Shriners Hospitals for Children or other local charities. Offer good at participating locations.
Deal Updates:
Pepperidge Farms Milano Cookies–Coupon now specifies a larger size.
Dentalife Dental Treats for Cats–Target has removed their store coupon.
TRESemme Expert Selection Youth Boost Product–Check your latest coupon insert for a save $1.00 on any TRESemme shampoo or conditioner manufacturer’s coupon. You may also find one on redplum.com.
Price at Walmart $4.94
$1.00 off manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
Pay $3.94
Submit Ibotta rebate (-$4.75)
= -$81
Grammar Error Corrections: 1. since it’s not very far away 2. really is too bad 3. Their most unfortunate policy 4. had a negative effect 5. that’s just how it goes
March 3, 2016
Knockout Rose Plus One
It is truly amazing to witness the beauty going on around us that we often overlook. While out observing my latest rose bloom yesterday, I found a delightful surprise–nature in progress.
Sid and I really enjoy our time outside each day. I am thrilled to say I have all of my garden boxes reconfigured now. Instead of using weed barrier in the new areas, I am trying cardboard and newspaper as a more affordable and natural option. We shall see if it works.
While Walmart’s current sale on Miracle-Gro Garden Soil ($2.50 1 cu ft) is a great buy, I am holding out hoping for an even better deal. I need a lot of new garden soil with my recent raised bed expansion, and that adds up quickly. This time of year, I am notoriously eager and impatient. If I can contain my excitement, the best deals are yet to come. Last year, Lowe’s put the 1 cu ft Miracle-Gro Garden Soil on sale for $2 a bag. I am really hoping they will do that again this year. H-E-B also ran promotions on their vegetable plants–just have to wait for them. My eagerness also needs to yield to the weather. While it absolutely feels like spring during the day, there’s still the chance for cold snaps at night which could kill new plants. I prefer to let them die at the store.
Trying to keep busy in the meantime, I successfully linked my ibotta app to my PayPal account. I am pleased to report that the process went smoothly. So at this time, I can attest that both the rebate submission and cash out procedures are simple and legit. If you are interested in signing up for ibotta, please see my January 20th post for details. This FREE app is an easy way to get cash back on purchases. Signing up with my referral code drgkshb will give you a $10 bonus to help get you started. We will then be on a team and can earn additional bonus cash as a group.
Deals of the Day:
Premium Mulch
Lowe’s has their Premium Mulch on sale 5 for $10.
Pepperidge Farm Milano Cookies 1.2 oz
Price at Target $1.00
Save $1.00 on any 1 package of Pepperidge Farm Milano cookies manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
=FREE
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability may vary by location.
Tai Pei Wrap
Price at Walmart $1.76
Save $1.00 on any 1 Tai Pei Wrap (up to 6 oz) manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
Pay $.76
Submit $1.50 ibotta rebate (-$1.50)
= -$.74 (Money Maker!)
*Coupon available on coupons.com. The ibotta rebate will either be $1.50 or $1.00 (mine shows the $1.50, but there are reports that some people are getting the $1.00 offer). Either way, you come out ahead! If you haven’t signed up for ibotta yet, check out my January 20th post for details. If you use my referral code drgkshb, you will get a $10 sign on bonus. As a team, we can hit monthly goals to earn additional cash!
Hormel Pepperoni
Price at Dollar Tree $1.00
Save $.50 on any 1 Hormel Pepperoni product manufacturer’s coupon (-$.50)
=$.50
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Availability will vary by location.
Click the above link to request your FREE sample.
Race Trac: FREE Left Hook Energy Drink
Click the above link to get this deal.
Colgate Total Toothpaste
Print your save $2.00 on Colgate Total, Optic White… manufacturer’s coupon from coupons.com. There are some potential deals coming up next week.
March 2, 2016
Today has been a weird day so far. Taking one look at Sid, I knew I better tread lightly. The fur on his head was mussed, his ears were flared awkwardly, and his squinty eyes spoke volumes. After serving him his iced “coffee”, I left him alone and began to review the new grocery store ads. Overall, they were disappointing this week. I had been so excited for them to come out hoping for some exceptional deals on food and specials on garden supplies.
I suppose it is that time of year where I’m just a little too eager. Most likely, in a week or two my Easter inspired food sales and garden specials will arrive. As for today, I decided to get my garden fix by reconfiguring my next raised bed box and hoped to improve Sid’s mood by letting him run outside.
Sid’s busy napping right now, and I’m going to let him sleep as long as he wants today. It is very very rare for my easy going furry little friend to be in an off mood, but when he is, it can be a very bad day.
Deals of the Day:
Clorox Wipes To Go Packs
Price at Target $.97 /Walmart $.92
Buy two $1.94/$1.84
Save $1.00 off any 2 Clorox branded products manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
=$.94/2 or $.47 each at Target OR $.84/2 or $.42 each at Walmart
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability may vary by location. Save an additional 5% at Target by using your Target REDcard. Target also gives a $.05 credit for each reusable bag you take and use.
Minute Maid 100% Juice Box 10 ct Pack
Price at Walmart $2.98
Save $1.00 on 1 Minute Maid Juice Box 10-pk manufacturer’s coupon (-$1.00)
Pay $1.98
Submit $.75 ibotta rebate (-$.75)
=$1.23
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability may vary by location.
Dawn Dish Soap 9 oz
Price at CVS, Walgreens & Rite Aid $.99
$.25 off 1 Dawn product manufacturer’s coupon (-$.25)
=$.74
*Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability may vary by location.
March 1, 2016
Happy March!
Apparently, I have done a good job so far of loosening up the soil in my flower bed. Sid sure took notice and saw it worthy of his #1 priority.
Perhaps if the conditions are acceptable, and it’s a matter of priority 1 not 2, he will behave like a farm cat. I was especially impressed he took the time to cover it. Sid refuses to do that in his indoor facilities. He has staff for that. During the burial process outside, he unearthed hundreds of fire ants. Thank goodness he made a quick exit from the scene. While it’s nice to occasionally see Sid behave like a C-A-T, I do wish he would take his business elsewhere in the yard and not in my flower garden.
Deals of the Day:
Beneful Dog Food 3.5 lb Bag
CVS Special: Buy one, get one FREE
Manufacturer’s coupon: Buy one, get one FREE (up to $6.55)
CVS coupon policy states you can use a BOGO manufacturer’s coupon with their CVS BOGO sale. Coupon available on coupons.com. Price and availability will be the challenge for this potentially awesome deal. Best case scenario–2 FREE bags of dog food. If the regular price is more than $6.55, you will pay the difference, but it’s still a great deal.
Click the above link to request your calendar. Offer good while supplies last.
$.89 Jr. Deluxe Cheeseburgers at Sonic
Get $.89 Jr. Deluxe Cheeseburgers at Sonic all day March 2. You must mention the offer when ordering. Limit 5. Offer good at participating locations while supplies last.
Kmart Freebie Saturday
March 5: FREE Easter stickers for kids 12 and under while supplies last.
Home Depot Workshop: Build A FREE Toy Wagon
March 5: Kids can build a FREE toy wagon at this Saturday’s Home Depot Workshop. Click the above link for more information.
Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinic: Build a FREE Monster Jam Truck
March 12: Kids can build a FREE Monster Jam Truck (featuring Blue Thunder). Click the above link for more information.