define('CONCATENATE_SCRIPTS', false); 2017 Archive – Tank Top and Tennis Shoe Girl

2017 Archive

December 30, 2017

My phone says it’s -15 degrees and feels like -29 degrees.  Needless to say, I have a zero degree desire to leave the house, and Sid’s quite pleased about that.  This frigid morning he’s been busy working on our puzzle again.  With such great help, I’m not sure why I can’t seem to make any progress.  I feel like I’m continually starting over every time I sit down to work on it.  Puzzling!

That was this morning.

Afternoon Fun

December 28, 2017

Merry Christmas!

As promised, Coach Table Runner has delivered on his very special Christmas gift to the team.  Check out the Soles with Goals page to find out the true identity of the mysterious Unky Herb!

November 25, 2017

O Christmas Tree, Giant Christmas Tree, How Lovely Are Your Really Long Branches…

After Thanksgiving dinner has been devoured, it’s time to get a Christmas tree.  Some years that’s on Thursday.  This year it was Friday.  So as tradition dictates, my brother, Dad and I piled into the pickup truck in pursuit of the perfect tower of evergreen.  Now, Dad had his eye on the nice straight display tree, but Bret and I quickly set our sights in a different direction.  Instead of Dad’s safe bet, we wanted to take a gamble on one of the trees still snuggly wrapped in netting–specifically one very tall Douglas Fir.  Dad noted how much heavier it was than the others, and since it was for the back deck was concerned when it blew over (as all the trees in the past have done) that it’d break a window.  I suggested that the extra weight would make it harder for it to blow over in the first place.  Dad also had significant reservations about the trunk fitting into the stand.  Bret assured him it would.  Dad still wasn’t convinced until Bret said one of those trees way in back of the tree pile was even bigger and better.  While I’m sure Dad was pondering what Mom was going to say about this monstrosity of a tree, he had no interest in digging through all of the trees so he agreed.

It took all 3 of us to lift our prized tree into the back of the truck.  Dad was right, it was heavy.  We had to turn it at a slight angle in order for it to fit into the 8-foot truck bed.  It wasn’t until we got it home and snipped the netting could we truly appreciate the fir in its full glory.  It somehow seemed shorter because of its enormous girth.  Bret was successful in getting the tree secured into its stand as he had promised.  We were all in awe of how impressive the tree turned out to be.  Mom even referred to it as magnificent and beautifully fresh.  Success!  Unfortunately as the wind picked up during the afternoon, the tree toppled over and I was quickly proven wrong about its level of stability.

In an effort to combat the tree’s instability, Mom and Dad came up with the idea of screwing the stand into a board.  Once Dad got the stand secured, Mom finally agreed with me about which side was the best.  That meant the tree needed to be turned.  Much to Mom’s delight, they quickly discovered the tree was perfect just where it was as Dad had screwed through the board and into the deck.

Mom, Dad, and I put 11 strands of lights on the tree today.  Even with Mom on the taller ladder, the tree still towered over her.  In fact, the highest limb extends above the guttering.  Fully adorned, this really is the most magnificent and beautiful fresh tree my family has ever had.

November 23, 2017

Happy Thanksgiving!  

Congratulations to the Soles With Goals members who participated in Turkey Trots today!

Gigi Twinkle Toes Brings Home the Pumpkin Pie Yet Again!

Deals of the Day:

Mills Fleet Farm

Today:  FREE Shipping No Minimum Purchase

Black Friday:  FREE Plush Owl given to the 1st 500 customers

Old Navy

Black Friday:  $1 Cozy Socks for the Fam ($1 per pair sold–up to $1 million–will be given to Boys & Girls Clubs)

November 8, 2017

Penguin

Living in Texas for over 10 years meant not having to bulk up in warm clothing and coats.  In stark contrast, living in the great white north requires layers–and a lot of them.  By the time you put on leggings, jeans, knee high wool socks, base tank, shirt, sweater, and zip-up sweatshirt, that ginormous overcoat barely zips.  And considering it comes all but to your knees, it’s safe to say your mobility has been compromised considerably.  After waddling around like a penguin for the last couple of weeks, I discovered I have three life changing snaps conveniently located on the bottom of the back of my coat…Claustrophobia be gone!

Deal of the Day:

Hy-Vee App

FREE Bakery Fresh Donut Holes with total purchase of $10

October 30, 2017

Hockey Sticks

Tonight I had a major “What the h-e double hockey sticks was I thinking?!” moment.  It was 32 degrees with a wickedly windy windchill that made it feel like 14.  (Yes, grammarians, the double use of the word wind is warranted.)  As the frigid wind smacked me upside the head I couldn’t help but wonder who in their right mind would live in Minnesota.

As I was busy contemplating my current level of sanity on the way home, I was visually reminded of my latest rookie country girl mistake as soon as I pulled into the driveway.  Perhaps I should digress for a moment and first shine a spotlight on Sid’s major farm cat success.  While I was at training in St. Cloud last week, Sid was solely in charge of the farmhouse and boy did he take charge.  Overall, the house looked good, with the exception of the rug in front of the sliding doors.  Sid likes to wrestle around with it so I wasn’t surprised to find it wadded up on this occasion.  I was just glad to see he had some fun.  As I bent down to straighten it out, I realized this was the result of a bit more than play time.  There it was in all its glory…a mouse caught in a mousetrap.  Since there were no mousetraps set on the main level of the house, my furry little trapper had to have carried the entire trap complete with mouse up from the basement.  Pretty nice of him to even wrap it up for me, don’t you think?!

While my heart was overjoyed at this unbelievably thoughtful gift, it had to go.  So into the trash it went.  And soon it began to stink.  Now, the dumpster is a significant distance from the house so I simply set the garbage bag outside the breezeway door with the intent of taking it down later.  Unfortunately later never came, but during the night some wild animal did.  Sid could probably tell you exactly what happened.  He was most likely watching from a window.  Flash forward.. and there I am outside in the freezing cold picking up scattered trash and that very special mouse yet again.  To the dumpster it assuredly went tonight!

Deal of the Day:

Sonic

October 31:  $.50 Corn Dogs

September 4, 2017 Updated 2:16 pm

Some concern has been expressed over the Apple Shredder’s unenthusiastic reaction to tasting the apple biscuit rolls.  So further testing has been conducted.  Overall, the consensus has been that the apple biscuit rolls are better once they’ve set up and cooled a bit.  The biscuits seemed flakier and the filling had thickened.

September 4, 2017

Apple Assembly Line!

Meet the Apple Shredder:

Meet the Apple Biscuit Roll Baker:

Meet the Apple Crapple Remover:

Meet the Apple Picker and Peeler:

Apple Shredder Does Quality Control

September 2, 2017

Fresh homegrown tomatoes mean it’s time for a big juicy BLT, and Mom has found the secret to the perfect taste of bacon in every bite!

 

Deal of the Day:

America’s Test Kitchen

50% of Weekend Shop Sales Will Be Donated to Feeding Texas

August 29, 2017

APPLE SEASON!

It dawned on me this weekend that I now live in an area where I should have access to some amazing fall apples.  So I sent out a text to see if anyone would be interested in a day trip to La Crescent or somewhere else in pursuit of this all American fruit.  I quickly received a response from one of my aunts who invited me to come over and pick apples from her tree.  Early the next morning I hopped in Subie and drove over to Stewartville to pick Honeycrisp apples.  And boy did we pick apples!  My aunt and uncle were very generous in sharing their bounty, and I will be busy for many days to come.  Of course that didn’t stop me from accepting a bag of McIntosh apples from a friend at work today!

Aunt Pat’s Apple Picking 101

Deal of the Day:

Sonic

8/30:  $1.00 Hot Dogs All Day

 

August 23, 2017

Deal of the Day:

Sonic

Aug 24:  $.50 Corn Dogs

 

August 21, 2017

Deal of the Day:

Walmart

Malt O Meal Frosted Mini Spooners 18 oz bag $2.27

Ibotta Rebate:  $2.00 Cash Back on Malt O Meal Cereals any variety 18 oz bag or larger

=$.27

*Update 8/22/17:  Walmart in Albert Lea had it for $2.47.  The rebate was indeed good for 3 bags on 1 receipt.  Woohoo!

Dairy Queen

Buy 1 Blizzard at reg price, Get 1 of equal or lesser value for $.99

Wendy’s

$.50 Frosty

 

August 19, 2017

Deals of the Day:

Kwik Trip

Bananas, Onions, Potatoes $.29/lb

Ibotta Rebates at Kwik Trip:  $.25 Any Item Receipt, $.25 Any Brand Bananas

Hy-Vee App

Hy-Vee Tortilla Chips $.49

July 24, 2017

Reality check:  It’s July 24th, and I just wore jeans to weed the garden.  Sid, I don’t think we’re in Texas anymore!  My furry little boy snuck off into the big field behind our yard while I was busy digging in the dirt.  I can imagine it would be pretty fun to walk the rows of soy beans if they were just a bit taller than you and so neatly spaced.  My garden, on the other hand, isn’t exactly the same vision of precision .  As I’ve been harvesting and weeding, I’ve been trying to make some semblance of rows again.  This year is definitely a learning curve.  Gardening in the ground is quite different than raised bed gardening.  Yet even with the new challenges, Coco Farms 2.0 is clearly an upgrade!

Coco Farms 2.0

Deal of the Day:

Town House Crackers + Hummus Snack Box (Any Variety, 3 Ct Pack Only)

Price at Walmart $5.46

Ibotta Rebate $5.50 (-$5.50)

=FREE

*Price and availability may vary by location.  Ibotta offer expiring soon.

July 17, 2017

Due to technical difficulties, one of Sid’s very special birthday wishes was delayed.

Deal of the Day:

IHOP

July 18:  $.59 Short Stack Pancakes (7 am-7 pm)

July 15, 2017

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY, SID!!!

Deal of the Day:

Arm & Hammer Toothpaste

Sale price at CVS $3.99

$3.99 Off Arm & Hammer Truly Radiant Toothpaste CVS Coupon on CVS.Com (-$3.99)

=FREE

July 10, 2017

Must Have Coffee…

Deal of the Day:

7-Eleven Day

7/11:  FREE Small Slurpee at 7-Eleven (11 am-7 pm)

July 8,2017

Happy Belated 4th of July!!!

For the first time, I was able to join our family gathering in Stewartville, MN, and take in the Stewartville Summerfest activities.  Perhaps the premier event for our family is the fun run in the morning.  Deep down I really wanted to participate, but there are some pretty raw wounds and legitimate fears I have when it comes to trying to run again.  It was running that triggered the menieres-like attacks which destroyed my life as I knew it.  Medications inhibited exercise, and I gained weight–a lot of it.  I could no longer do what I loved, and I felt horrible about myself.  I identified myself as the perky aerobics instructor/runner girl.  That was who I was.  That was now gone.  Emotionally it was devastating.

Over the last year, I’ve found a level of fulfillment coaching Soles with Goals vicariously through Coach Table Runner.  Several members of the team were planning to participate in the upcoming fun run on the 4th, so at the end of May/early June I began wogging.  That translates to a lot of walking with a little jogging mixed in.  There were mornings I was up at 5 am out huffing and puffing along the highway.  I was very surprised to learn that’s rush hour on the otherwise quiet blacktop.  The wogging was a struggle, and I would get pretty crabby and tired around 3 pm.

After realizing how far off my fitbit mileage has been and receiving some encouragement from teammates, I signed up for the run right before the deadline.  I knew going in I would never come close to the 25 minute 5K’s of my glory days and was simply hoping to at least be under 40 minutes, and even that, wasn’t a guarantee.  I had no clue how the run would go.  And as it turned out, I don’t think anyone participating in the run had any inkling of what was ultimately going to happen on race day.

The Stewartville Summerfest course encompasses multiple terrains.  It really is more cross country than a road race.  Over the years, I’d been told that the path is narrow at times, and if you get behind slower people, you’re most likely stuck.  Therefore, I decided to line up mid pack.  Dodging roots and rocks, I followed the crowd through the woods and out into the meadow.  As I began approaching the water stop, I saw several runners coming back toward us and a bunch of runners continuing forward.  Soon I met my dad who was heading in the opposite direction.  What?!  I thought he was behind me.  Then another runner told the people headed in my direction that we had taken the wrong path, and we were on the 4.5 mile route.  I began to assess the scenario in my head.  I outran my dad and uncle, but they are going to beat me, AND I have to hoof my extra 35+ lbs an additional 1.5 miles.  And much to my delight, I was now out of the shady woods and on a blacktop road with the sun beating down on me.  Yeah, morale was a bit low at this point.

What can you do but keep moving forward?  So I continued on and finished as strong as I could.  I had expected the cheers of my family but never heard them.  Would you believe not one of them saw me finish the race, but they all cheered loudly for my cousins who came in about 25 seconds behind me?!  And people wonder why I feel invisible.

As it turned out, the race crew failed to remove a pretty important piece of tape after the 5 mile run.  The error was discovered midrace and was torn down right as my dad was at the critical juncture.  At least 4 different routes were taken, so they couldn’t even begin to assign places.  Fortunately the path I took didn’t turn out to be 4 miles.  In fact, it sounded like I just ran the route backwards.  My unofficial time I was dreading to see was 34:36.  It’s a far cry from my running days but much better than anticipated.  I can live with that.  I would argue you could even shave a few seconds off since they don’t bother to chip the start of the race–only the end.  From a runner’s perspective, that defeats the purpose of chipping.  The times aren’t accurate to your run.  However, it would still facilitate the “paperwork” for the event staff.

I can’t say I found freedom from my inner demons this Independence Day, but I do think I took a significant step forward.  While my heart still grieves the loss of hard-earned ability, the results of my effort weren’t as bad as I had feared.  If I continue to try to run, will I induce vertigo or a migraine?  Perhaps.  Only time and effort can ultimately answer that.  I am at least glad I tried.  That was a huge victory in itself.

While no one threw me a parade as I crossed the finish line, the town did put on a nice one later that evening.  Mom, Dad, and I skipped the fireworks since I had to work the next day.  As we approached the microscopic town of Myrtle, we caught what we deemed their fireworks display–a lovely green one.  Our timing was impeccable not to miss that show.

Congratulations Racing Meemaw!  1st Place 5 Mile Females 60-69!

Philometer Stewartville Summerfest 2017

“Some Guy” Who Still Won’t Join Soles With Goals But Always Shows Up Anyway

A very special thank you to Queen Bee’s Knees for the great video coverage!

Deal of the Day:

Hy-Vee App

Buy 1, Get 1 FREE Charmin Bath Tissue (Super Mega Rolls, New!, 4 Rolls)

June 25, 2017

The young calico only appeared once with the smaller black and white kitten.  After that, a gray kitten emerged from the hostas alongside his Sylvesteresque brother.  Initially, they were absolutely starving.  As I continued to feed them, they grew more content and secure.  The adorable duo proved rather clever as well.  After church last Sunday, they made themselves visible to all of the parishioners.  Soon a preteen boy came into the fellowship hall with the pair rolled up in his shirt.  His mom came over to make sure it was ok with me if they took the two little furballs home.  I was very glad the kittens found a good home, but deep down, I was a little sad.  I missed them once they were gone (Sid, on the other hand, could not have cared less).  To make things worse, when I went out for my morning wog (walk/jog) that following Monday, I came across a heart-wrenching scene in the middle of the road.  Let’s just say I know what happened to the poor calico and most likely her mom…

Deal of the Day:

Puffs Facial Tissues 3pk

Sale Price at Hy-Vee $3.99

$.50 Off 1 Puffs 3 ct or larger Manufacturer’s Coupon from coupons.com (-$.50)

=$3.49

June 13, 2017

Not only do the hostas get really big in Minnesota, apparently they produce kittens.

Hungry Babies!

100% Kitten

Deal of the Day:

Hy-Vee App

Hy-Vee White Hamburger Buns 8 ct $.39

June 8, 2017

Monday night I finally got to go on the long awaited dairy farm tour!

Milking Parlor

Landwehr Dairy runs 24 hours a day.  The milk is about 100 degrees fresh from the cow and needs to be chilled quickly.  Using well water and a machine that looks like a radiator, the milk is cooled rapidly and put right onto a truck.   A tanker truck is filled with milk every 18 hours.

Dinner Time

I was really hoping to capture one of the cows flinging the feed over her head.  Apparently their food is a well blended mix to prevent the cows from picking out the better tasting parts and leaving the rest.

Foot Bath

The cows walk through a foot bath on a regular basis.

Deal of the Day:

Hy-Vee App

June 5-11:  Pepsi 2 Liter $.49

June 4, 2017

Sid seems to be adapting quite well to country living.  Last week I found him hunting in the tall grass at the top of the creek bank.  At least this time he hadn’t shimmied himself to the other side of the barbed wire fence and then wondered how he was going to get back out again.  While I love seeing him have fun putting his feline prowess into action, I’m always a little nervous about what type of critter he’s going to catch.  On this particular occasion I was relieved to see he pulled out what looked like a field mouse.  Upon closer inspection, I realized it was actually a vole.  Some of you may recall Sid has experience catching voles in Texas.  Check out the vole hunting master in action!

Sid Catches a Vole

Deals of the Day:

Coupons.com

$2.00 Off 1 Garnier Shampoo, Conditioner or Treatment

Save $1.00 on any 1 Skintimate Shave Gel

Save $2.00 on any 1 Skintimate Twin Pack Shave Gel

Save $1.00 on any Colgate Total, Optic White, etc.

Save $1.00 on any 1 Pkg of U by Kotex Fitness Products

June 3, 2017

Deal of the Day:

Sam’s Club

Freeosk:  Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste FREE Sample

May 29, 2017

Happy Memorial Day!

Thank you to all who have served and those who continue to serve our nation.  On December 7, 1941, 24-year-old Glaydon Iverson lost his life aboard the USS Oklahoma when Pearl Harbor was bombed.  Over 75 years later, it warms my heart and humbles my soul to know that the southern Minnesotan’s sacrifice has not been forgotten.  Iverson’s remains have only recently been identified, and last Thursday I had the privilege to witness them finally being transported home.  It was awesome to see such a display of respect so many years later.

Iverson Arrival in Albert Lea

The videos are particularly short because I couldn’t help but feel compelled to put down the phone to clap and then put my hand over my heart.  When you really thought about what was happening, it was hard not to get a bit emotional.

Honoring Iverson

Deal of the Day:

Hy-Vee App

Hillshire Farm Lunchmeat 16 oz $1.99

May 25, 2017

Sid’s new friend has continued to visit each day.  Yesterday, I went to Hy-Vee to get some grape jelly for the bold bird.  I found it ironic the clerk commented about feeding the birds just by seeing my jar of grape jelly.  I did not volunteer any information about my intended use.  It must be Oriole season here!

I find it fascinating that the bird seems more interested in Sid than the jelly!

This evening while I was watching tv, I heard a tap on the window.  I thought it was Sid.  Nope.  Sid’s friend was back seeking attention.  He told Sid hi and thank you before going in for his fruity dinner.

Deals of the Day:

Hy-Vee 2 Day Sale (Fri & Sat)

Van Camp’s Pork and Beans $.39

Coke 6-Pack Bottles $1.88

Hy-Vee

Ground Beef (80/20) 16 oz roll $1.88

Hy-Vee Ice Cream 56 fl oz $1.69

May 23, 2017

Sid had a friend over for breakfast this morning.

 

We also had a mystery guest last night.  Between the darkness and rain, I could not make out the unusual critter roaming through the yard.  It was about the size of a raccoon or cat but had a really strange gait.  Talking to a friend of mine, I’m wondering if it could have possibly been a badger.  I’m beginning to feel like Sid and I live on a nature preserve!

I am thrilled to say I finished planting the garden yesterday before it began raining yet again.  After adding 4 rows of green beans and a row of butternut squash, the garden is officially full.  The beets will have to wait until next year.

Deal of the Day:

Mills Fleet Farm

Miracle-Gro Garden Soil 1 cu ft Sale $2.99 ($.99 after $2 mail-in rebate)

May 21, 2017

First, and foremost, it is just wrong to be running your heater at the end of May!  It’s been really cold and rainy for around a week now.  I am very ready for some sunshine, and Sid cannot wait to get back to his outdoor adventures.  For now, he’s had to do his bird watching from inside the house.  This morning he spied a tiny hummingbird fluttering around the flowers and this evening he got really excited when he saw a big vibrant pheasant in the yard.  It was a beautiful bird!

Deal of the Day:

Old Navy

June 24:  $1 Flip Flop Sale

May 16, 2017

Around 1 this morning, I awoke abruptly to significant commotion in the house. I got up and started looking for Sid.  He was nowhere to be found upstairs, so I finally ventured down the steps and saw exactly what was creating such a ruckus.

City Kitty Turned True Farm Cat

So proud of Sid!  Such a good boy doing his job!  That was a pretty big mouse.  I wonder if I should had saved it and taken it to the taxidermist to make one of those head plaques (like a prized buck).

Deals of the Day:

Coupons.com

Save $.75 on any 3 ct or 6 ct Magnum Ice Cream Product

Save $1.00 on any Colgate Total, Optic White etc.

May 15, 2017

Much to my dismay, I came home tonight after work to discover the urn all the way up the steps by my front door had been dug up and dirt was scattered on the porch.  Fortunately the flowers themselves seem to still be ok.  This discovery prompted me to take a walk around the yard despite the threat of thunderstorms.  The rest of the flower pots appear to be untouched but the varmint struck my garden as well.  Of course it dug up the 1 expensive tomato plant I wanted specifically and left the other 24 alone.  The prognosis for my special plant is not good.  I picked up the wilted green stalk, put it back in the ground and then went to get the watering can.  I filled it with water yesterday so it’d be ready whenever I’d need it.  Ummm…where was all of the water?  There was still a little at the bottom but no where near the amount I put in the can.  I specifically put enough in it so it wouldn’t blow away.  It’s days like today that make me feel like I’m going crazy!

Deals of the Day:

Hy-Vee App

$.79 Dole Salad Blends

Runnings

Mix & Match Flower & Vegetable Flat (Twelve 4-Packs = Full Flat) $18.99

In case you were wondering how/why I ended up with so many tomato plants!

May 14, 2017

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

Sid and I spent most of the day outside enjoying the sunshine.  The hostas have filled in beautifully around the house, and Sid loves burrowing in them.  There are so many in one particular area, that I cannot even begin to see Sid when he’s in hiding.  Sid kept busy doing all the things a Sid does, while I finally got to conquer the projects I’ve been so eager to do.

My urns and pots are now filled with a variety of flowers, and I cannot wait for them to grow into their full glory.  My aunt and uncle gave me a rhubarb plant which is now in the corner of my garden ending the row of 4 green and 4 red cabbage plants.  Perhaps I went a bit overboard with tomato plants this year.  Just how many tomatoes will 25 plants produce?

May 9, 2017

Life in MN…

Next month’s meeting has been cancelled.  Here are the minutes from last month’s meeting:

9:30 am Coffee & Rolls

ABC Committee:  No Report

DEF Committee:  No Report

GHI Committee:  Tabled until Next Month

JKL Committee:  Tabled until Next Month

XYZ Committee:  No Report

Meeting Adjourned

While I may have simplified it a bit, that was the gist of a recent email I received.  For some reason it struck me as extremely humorous.

My Deal of the Day:

Hy-Vee (in Albert Lea, MN)

Clearance Holiday Green Mountain/Keurig K-Cups $1.00

(Sorry, I bought them all except a peppermint one and some boxes of pumpkin spice.  The ones I got were normal flavors just in Christmas packaging and don’t expire until 9/18.)

May 8, 2017

What a whirlwind weekend!  Saturday was the ALS Super Hero Dash in St. Paul, and this was the first time I was able to attend the event.  I rode up from Stewartville, MN, with Queen Bee’s Knees that morning.  Her royal highness was driving and opted to park in a remote lot and have the shuttle bus take us in to the event.  Sounded like a good plan to me.  We were the first to arrive in the lot and get on the bus.  Time was ticking away, and the bus driver didn’t leave.  One of the volunteers asked if we were wanting to get to the park for the 10K (early race) and then told the driver to go ahead and take us so we weren’t late.  He nodded and proceeded to do nothing.  Another volunteer came over and told him to go.  He just shut the door of the bus and didn’t leave the lot.  It became obvious he didn’t know how to get to the park.  My aunt suggested we get a volunteer to ride along for the first trip.  She literally had to get off the bus and get the volunteer herself.  We didn’t have a lot of free time, but we did make the start thanks to my aunt and the volunteer who rode along giving directions.

I personally didn’t run or walk but did my best to cheer on the Super Sonic Studiers and document the event.  Members of SwG participate on the team.

Queen Bee’s Knees Sets the Scene

Insert Name Here, Mileage Monster & Racing Meemaw  Post 10K

Some Guy (see SwG Events Page–2016 Stewartville Summerfest) Pre 5K 

We run, walk and cheer each other on in memory of my uncle, Randy Studier.  His granddaughter, Brittny, is the captain of the Super Sonic Studiers and has done an amazing job of fundraising for the cause.

Brittny Pre 5K Interview

Brittny Post 5K Interview

The Super Hero Dash was a lot of fun and raised money and awareness for a good cause.  After the race, several of us went out to eat and then two of my aunts and I headed even farther north to Forest Lake, MN, for a piano recital.  My cousin’s son had composed his own piece and did a fantastic job.  We were exhausted by the time we got back to Stewartville.  Sunday morning I went home to see Sid for a while before heading down to St. Ansgar, IA, for a graduation party.  This is the first time in my life I’ve been able to be a part of all the family activities going on, and it was awesome.  Please remind me of that this winter when I’m wondering why on earth I thought it was a good idea to move to Minnesota.

May 4, 2017

Today was a beautiful, sunny spring day in southern MN.  Sid couldn’t wait to go outside once I got home.  Since I didn’t have the heart to make him wait any longer, I let him out while I ventured off on foot.  My thought was I wouldn’t wander off too far.  That was the plan anyway.  Of course I couldn’t resist the temptation to check out where a new road led vs just turning around while the house was still in sight.  “Surely, there will be a road that cuts back west fairly soon,” I thought to myself even though my gut was telling me that wasn’t the case.  I crossed the railroad tracks and almost ended up in the city of Myrtle.  Most of the route was on gravel which I’m not too fond of when trying to jog.  With my level of grace and poise, it sets me up for injury, and I don’t enjoy eating dust when a random truck drives by me.  When I got back, I was tired and glad to find Sid.  He was hiding under an adirondack chair behind the house.  I’m guessing the meeting at the church had adjourned while I was gone, and the people and cars scared him.  He was definitely ready to go back inside the house, and so was I.

Deal of the Day:

Hy-Vee

This Week’s Hy-Vee App Special:  $.29 Hy-Vee Grade A Fresh Large Eggs (Dozen)

April 30 2017

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY SOLES WITH GOALS!!!

Coach Table Runner and I are thrilled to report SwG has been going strong for 12 entire months!  Members past and present have collectively walked/ran 7,415.07 miles since May 1, 2016.  Coach and I think that’s pretty impressive.

Eight of our current members have been a part of the team from the very beginning and have actively participated for all 12 months.  Congratulations Gigi Twinkle Toes (1,052.23 miles), Insert Name Here (333.89 miles), Queen Bee’s Knees (450.50 miles), Quilter Foot (349.32 miles), Philometer (1,036.68 miles), Purple Cat (103.57 miles), Racing Meemaw (988.36 miles), and Tomato Paced (533.20 miles)!

My new employer has a very active Wellness Committee.  Last month, they offered us a Fitbit Charge 2 at $80 instead of $149.99.  Starting May 1, we can submit receipts for healthy lifestyle items to be reimbursed up to $30 in Chamber Bucks.  Most likely I’m going to invest in a new pair of running shoes.  Shocking choice I know!  But plants for my garden would count toward it too.  I think it’s a pretty neat program.  Of course whenever I approach the elevator I have to look at the sign telling me how much healthier it would be for me to take the stairs.

Regarding my current state of personal wellness, I planted three rows of potatoes yesterday.  The first two consist of 16 Cascade seed potatoes each for a total of hopefully 32 plants.  Since a bunch of my russet potatoes began to sprout before I could eat them, I decided to plant them as well.  The 23 russet seed potatoes were planted much more densely since I have less confidence in their ability to produce (yeah, it had nothing to do with the fact that I was exhausted and had no desire to hand “till” up another row).  We shall see how they do compared the Cascade potatoes.  I have no idea if I planted any of the seed potatoes correctly and if my timing was right.  What I do know is that my entire body aches today from yesterday’s potato farming.  Gardening in the ground is definitely much harder physically than the raised-bed methodology!

Deal of the Day:

FREE Starbucks K-Cup Samples

Click the above link to request your FREE sample.  While supplies last.

April 27, 2017

As I was just entering the great metropolis of Glenville this morning, I met a couple of cars with snow on them!   I was kind of surprised since Sid and I didn’t get any snow out in rural Myrtle.  Continuing down Main Street I could see houses adorned with a light dusting of white on top.  The area didn’t have any accumulation, but it was kind of wild seeing snow flurries on April 27!

Deal of the Day:

Hy-Vee (In Albert Lea, MN.  Not sure of other locations.)

Gold Medal Unbleached Flour 5 lb Bag $.75

April 26, 2017

Soles with Goals:  369.28 miles reported!

I have been in desperate need of new foundation for quite some time.  Since Herberger’s has an Estee Lauder bonus right now, I went out to the mall during lunch.  I’ve never used Estee Lauder products, so I needed assistance finding the correct shade.  The “helpful” clerk took off part of my make-up (but not all) and used a brush to paint the foundation all over my face.  Unfortunately she didn’t exactly get it blended very well.  I do think it’s the right shade, and I wasn’t going through this again, so I purchased my bottle of foundation while feeling a bit apprehensive about making this level of investment as I walked away looking pretty terrible.  Once I was back in Subie, I tried to blend it in better myself, but it seems to be a rather quick drying foundation.  She had smeared foundation on parts of my lips but not others so I reached into my bonus bag for lipstick.  Now this was just brilliant on my part.  They were out of the neutral lipstick bonus (which I wanted) so I had to get the “sultry” bonus (lighter eye color products and bold lipstick).  Yeah, a vibrant shade of lipstick isn’t going to draw attention to my messed up face!!!  Smart, Nic, smart!  Sometimes I amaze myself.  So needless to say I felt a little self-conscious at work this afternoon sporting my new “sultry” look.  This southern belle seems to be making quite a mark in the great white north.  Speaking of snow, it’s in the forecast.

Deals of the Day:

Herberger’s & Younkers

FREE 7-Piece Gift with any Estee Lauder Purchase of $35 or more

Garnier Sleek and Shine Zero

Click the above link to request your FREE sample.

Hy-Vee

Red Ripe Strawberries 2 lb pkg $1.98

Hy-Vee Grade A Fresh Large Eggs 12 ct $.77

Hy-Vee Single Cup Coffee 50 ct $17.99 (plus earn $.50 off per gallon)

Sprouts Farmers Market

72-Hour Sale (Fri, Sat & Sun) Red Ripe Strawberries 2 lb pkg 4 for $5

April 25, 2017

Soles with Goals:  351.15 miles reported!

Not wanting Sid to miss our latest adventure out in the country, I desperately tried to get him to look out the window.  The poor guy was a bit confused as to my intent, and his head kept following my hands and arms flailing all around as I was pointing excitedly at our latest guest.  Once Sid finally saw what I was trying to show him, he shared my excessive enthusiasm.  We ran from window to window through the house as we watched the majestic deer frolic through the front yard.  Sid had never seen a deer before, and I had been wondering how he would react if he ever did.  It was awesome.

Deal of the Day:

Sonic

April 26:  $.79 Small Ice Cream Slush

April 22, 2017

Still in my pjs and mid-coffee, I heard geese honking with excessive gusto.  Sid and I both wanted to find the source of the commotion.  Looking out our front door, we saw two big geese right at the front doors of the church across the street.  They were locked out, and apparently not too happy about it.

Needless to say, Sid and I are enjoying our new farm adventures.  The geese were just a humorous start to a pretty fun day.  Since it was Bomgaars spring sale day, I went into Albert Lea to see what specials I could find at my new favorite outdoor/farm store.  After breaking two metal rakes and two hoes last year (and now that I’m a Minnesota farmer), I decided to do things right and invested in a professional-grade metal rake with a lifetime warranty.  It was rather heavy compared to the others, but definitely the right choice.  Sid enjoyed his afternoon outside while I worked on our garden site with my fancy new rake.  The sun was shining, and life was good.

April 19, 2017

It is officially Severe Weather Awareness Week in Minnesota.  Judging from the amount of rain that fell today accompanied by plenty of thunder and lightening, I can see why.  Tomorrow is the big tornado drill at work.  Good times.

April 18, 2017

Potato!  Potahto!

While many of you are enjoying beautiful blooms, spring hasn’t quite arrived up north yet.  I am pleased to report there are signs it is coming, but it can’t come soon enough by my standards!  In Texas, my garden would have been planted in March.  Up here, I’ve been told potatoes are among the earliest of crops to plant and to plant them on Good Friday.  So I’ve been inquiring where to get some good seed potatoes.  During my lunch hour I ventured out to a local seed store and picked up some Cascade potatoes.  Supposedly there’s a restaurant in town that only uses that kind for their potato salad.  I liked that the clerk said it was a tried and true variety in this area and that it had fewer susceptibilities than some of the other types.  I may also try planting some of my old potatoes from the grocery store.  I got the flu right after I purchased a big bag of them so I have a large bowl-full prime for planting.  Now to get the garden tilled!!!

April 16, 2017

HAPPY EASTER!

March 22, 2017

I now understand the phrase, “Dropping Like Flies.”  Apparently they don’t like the cold either.  Unfortunately I can’t sweep often enough.  Yuck!

March 20, 2017

It has been suggested I change my blog name to “Overcoat and Fur-Lined Boots Girl.”

March 16, 2017

Shopping List:

Bigger Shovel

Waterproof Gloves

Puffer Coat for Sid

March 15, 2017

Sid Meets Snow

March 14, 2017

For those of you who think Sid and I have fallen off the face of the earth, we have not.  As hard as we tried, we didn’t quite make it.  We made it as far as southern Minnesota.  It was difficult to sell and leave our beautiful home in central Texas, but it’s time for us to be closer to family and pursue our farm dreams.  And after traveling over 1,000 miles in Subie, neither Sid nor I have any desire to turn around and drive back to Austin.  We are renting a very charming farm house and both really like it.

Today is the first we’ve had internet access so we are very much behind updating the Soles with Goalsmileage.  Now that we’re back online, I’m sure coach will be sure everything is back up to his standards soon.  Please forgive our delay during this time of transition.  We should have lots to blog about as our new adventures begin in the Land of 10,000 Lakes!

February 12, 2017

Soles with Goals:  197.13 miles reported!

Over the last couple of weeks Sid has continued to stay on guard in hopes of catching the sniff mark culprit.  Perching himself at the top of our backyard fence gave Sid a much broader view of the neighborhood and suspect #2.  Now the furry gray suspect is no stranger to the area.  Sid often watches this free-spirited feline follow one of our neighbors and her kids down to the mailbox.  It really is a funny sight to behold, especially since it’s not their cat!  On the day this suspicious-acting kitty came into question, she was sitting in the cul-de-sac looking at Sid atop the fence.  Fortunately, Sid realized he did not have enough evidence for an arrest and simply let her go.

About a week and a half ago I awoke to some strange noises around 3:30 am.  One of which included banging on the metal security door.  First thought, where’s Sid?  He’s not with me, so find him.  Most likely he’s already investigating the situation.  If he’s in hiding, I probably should be too.  As usual, Sid was right in the middle of the action.  Sitting in the window sill of the living room, he was observing the antics of suspect #3.  Criminally appropriate, the nighttime prowler was adorned in all black with only a telling white stripe down his back.  His tail was so big at times it looked like he had two of them!  That’s right, much to my absolute dismay and distress, there was a great big skunk on the back patio.  Please don’t spray, please don’t spray, please don’t spray!!!

So as the list of suspects continues to grow, my plan to push Sid into sniff mark self-realization seems to have completely backfired.

January 26, 2017

Soles with Goals:  309.04 miles reported!

Sid thinks he has a strong lead in the mysterious window sniff marks case.  Yesterday morning a suspect suddenly appeared outside the 3 windows in the front office.  Hurrying across the room for a closer look, Sid quickly recognized the familiar face staring back at him.  As hard as I’ve tried to explain to him that I was just washing the windows, he has yet to be convinced of my innocence.  So the mystery continues…

Deals of the Day:

H-E-B

Buy Mark’s Good Stuff Salsa, Get Mark’s Good Stuff BBQ Sauce FREE (with in-store coupon)

Buy Whataburger Signature Sauce or Mayo, Get Whataburger Ketchup FREE (w/in-store coupon)

Hy-Vee

Kellogg’s Cereal 2 for $3 (Select Varieties.  Valid 1/26-1/27)

  • Save $.75 on 1 Kellogg’s Corn Flakes Cereal coupon on coupons.com (Use 2.)
  • $1.00 Ibotta Rebate on 3 Boxes Rice Krispies 9 oz or larger

Hy-Vee Condensed Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup $.29 (with Fuel Saver + Perks Card)

Hy-Vee Grade A Fresh Large Eggs 12 ct $.79

Sprouts Farmers Market

Golden Ripe Pineapples $.98 each

Sales vary by location.  Check your local ads.

January 23, 2017

Soles with Goals:  272.36 miles reported!

Sid’s assignment for the week:  Watch for whoever keeps getting sniff marks on the windows.

Deals of the Day:

Coupons.com

Save $4 on any 1 Almay product

$.50 off 1 Bounty Basic Paper Towels (Single Roll $.97 at HEB – $.50 Coupon = $.47)

January 19, 2017

Soles with Goals:  202.55 miles reported!

Everyone’s A Critic

Like most middle-aged women, I despise the words middle aged and have acquired some of those extra pounds life events tend to contribute.  For me it was knee surgery, a severe Meniere’s attack, and succumbing to emotional defeat that now lie heavily on my gut, butt and thighs.  Of course we never give up completely.  After all, we adamantly deny we are indeed middle aged.  So on occasion, out come the dusty old workout videos.  Monday night was Dance with Julianne (Hough).

This particular workout is fast paced and full of difficult choreography.  Even when I was fit and bendy, I think I would have struggled with it.  Don’t get me wrong, I’d have fared much better, but it still would have been a challenge.  So there I was in my living room huffing and puffing, several counts behind the beat, but still giving it a go.  Sid sat on the back of the couch observing.  It didn’t take very long until he couldn’t take it anymore.  And at that, the meowing began, continued, and didn’t stop, at least until I did.  I’m not sure if he feared I was going to have a heart attack, hurt myself or if it was just too horrible to watch.  That’s right, folks, my cat essentially heckled me.  Tuesday, I dusted off the treadmill holed up in the garage.

Deals of the Day:

USPS

Forever Stamps $.47 each (Price Increases to $.49 on Sunday)

Hy-Vee

Fancy Feast Broths 10 for $10

  • Save $1 on 10 pouches of Fancy Feast Broths coupon on coupons.com
  • Earn $.10 off per gallon w/ purchase of 10

Campbell’s Condensed Soup 10 for $10

  • Save $1.25 on 5 Campbell’s Condensed Soups coupon on coupons.com (use 2)
  • Earn $.10 off per gallon with purchase of 10

Contadina Pizza Sauce 15 oz $.49 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card)

Hy-Vee Saltine Crackers 16 oz $.79 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card)

Sprouts Farmers Market

Ripe Hass Avocados 3 for $1

  • $.25 any brand Avocados Ibotta rebate

Roma Tomatoes 2 lbs for $1

As always, sales vary by location.  Check your local ads.

January 17, 2017

Soles with Goals:  185.22 miles reported!

Sid never ceases to amaze me.  We came across a string today which peaked my furry little boy’s attention.  Since we hadn’t played the string game in a long time, it was new and fun again.  Much to my surprise and delight, Sid had his own ideas about how he wanted to play.  As we were playing, he ran into the guest bathroom and hid behind the door.  He wanted me to drag the string under the door and dangle it in the crack between the door and its frame.  After a while, we returned to the living room and continued playing with the string.  Suddenly Sid grabbed the string and sprinted out of the room.  Following him down the hall, I discovered he’d placed the string at the foot of the guest bathroom’s door, and he was once again hiding behind it.  I chuckled and gladly complied.

Deals of the Day:

Bush’s Hummus Made Easy 6 oz Box

Price at Walmart on Rollback $1.67

Save $1.00 on Hummus Made Easy coupon on coupons.com (-$1.00)

=$.67

*Price and availability may vary by store.

Coupons.com

Save $2 on any Colgate Mouthwash (Print 2–possibly FREE at Walgreens next week)

$2 off 1 Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash

Save $.75 on Softsoap Body Wash

Ibotta Rebates

$.25 Any Brand Red Bell Peppers

$.25 Any Brand Gallon White Milk

$.25 Any Brand Potatoes

$.25 Any Brand Onions

$.25 Any Brand Bananas

$.25 Any Brand Avocados

$.25 Any Brand Pasta

$.25 Any Brand Bread

REI Co-op

Members:  Earn a $20 Bonus Card when you spend $100 or more Jan 13-23

January 16, 2017

Soles with Goals:  165.17 miles reported!

Deals of the Day:

Palmolive Dish Liquid 10 oz

Price at CVS $.99

Save $.25 on any Palmolive Dish Liquid manufacturer’s coupon on coupons.com (-$.25)

$.25 CVS In-Store Instant Coupon (-$.25)

=$.49

*Price, promotion, and availability may vary by location.

Old Navy

Today Only (in-store & online):  All Sweaters for the Family 50% Off

Kmart Freebie Saturday

Jan 21:  FREE Granola Bar for Kids 12 and Under

January 11, 2017

Soles with Goals:  107.51 miles reported!

Deals of the Day:

Old Navy

Today Only (in-store & online):  Performance Active Tops for the Family  Kids $5  Adults $6

Coupons.Com (Sid’s Pick of the Day!)

Save $1 on 10 Pouches of Fancy Feast Broths Gourmet Cat Food

Kmart Freebie Saturday

Jan 14:  FREE Capri Sun Juice Pouch for Kids 12 and Under

January 4, 2017

Deals of the Day:

Hy-Vee

Grimmway Farms Baby Carrots 16 oz pkg $.58 (Jan 5 & 6)

  • $.25 any brand Fresh Carrots Ibotta rebate (scan item in store to make sure qualifies)

Hy-Vee Peanut Butter 16 oz $.99 (Jan 5 & 6)

Ground Beef 80% Lean 5 lb Roll $8.95 (Jan 5 & 6)

  • $.50 any brand Ground Beef Ibotta rebate

Hy-Vee Shredded or Bar Natural Cheese 16 oz $3.49

Hy-Vee 12 ct Single Cup Coffee $4.99 Plus Earn $.10 Off Per Gallon

Chi-Chi’s Salsa 16 oz $.98 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card)

Florida’s Natural Juice 59 fl oz $1.99 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card)

Kleenex Facial Tissues 3 or 4 pack $2.99 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card)

  • Save $.75 on any 3 boxes or 1 bundle pack Kleenex Facial Tissue coupon (coupons.com)

Sprouts Farmers Market

Ripe Hass Avocados 3 for $1

January 2, 2017

Soles with Goals:  23.93 miles reported!

I confess, I have absolutely no motivation to make resolutions this year.  Last year, I was a bit more ambitious.  Of course the fulfillment of those resolutions was met with mixed results.

2016 Resolutions:

#1 Get Fit (Moderate Success):  Started Soles with Goals which got me moving more, but overall, I was lazy and didn’t really improve my level of fitness.

#2 Recycle More (Success):  Cut myself more than once on can lids in the dishwater in the process, but I definitely made more of an effort.  At the end of the year, the city began a new curbside recycling program for clothing, shoes, and household items.  The first week, I set out a big bag of shoes and another big bag of clothes.

#3 Learn to Can (Fail):  Never even tried.

#4 Conquer the Bread Machine (Moderate Success):  Produced edible loaves.

#5 Encourage Myself and Others to Read More (Success):  Promoted books on the Reading Nook and read some on my own (including The Rise of Isis by Jay Sekulow).

Whatever your goals are for the new year, I wish you many wonderful blessings in 2017!

Deals of the Day:

Old Navy Online Only

  • 25% Off Your Order (Ends 1/4)
  • FREE Water Bottle with Any Order Today Only (Code:  DRINKUP)

Kmart Freebie Saturday

Jan 7:  FREE Jump Rope for Kids 12 and Under

January 1, 2017

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I am pleased to say I didn’t have to put on my Lumber Jill garb and wrestle a tree to the ground today.  For those of you who may not know what I’m referring to, feel free to check out my Jan 1, 2016 post archived under the Home section by month.

After this year’s holiday travels, I was so happy to be reunited with Sid late Friday night.  My furry little boy had lots to say and was in desperate need of attention.  That’s why his sudden disappearance not long after I arrived home surprised me.  I had been unpacking and realized he was no longer nearby.  I looked for him to no avail.  Pretty soon I heard a loud meow.  It was Sid trying to get my attention.  His less than subtle clue to his whereabouts led me to the area where his fort is.  Just as I walked by, Sid pounced at my feet from behind the sheet covering the bar stools.  He had been lying in wait to attack me, but I failed to show up in a timely fashion and he had grown impatient.  Ok, Sid.  Mama’s home!  Game on!

Deal of the Day:

FREE New Year’s Day Printable Coloring Pages

Click the above link to select and print FREE New Year’s Day coloring sheets.

December 25, 2016

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Soles with Goals:  191.65 miles reported!

Deal of the Day:

FREE Christmas Coloring Pages

Click the above link for FREE printable coloring sheets.

December 18, 2016

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY DEAR YOUNGER BROTHER!

I hope you had a great day, and I wish you an amazing year ahead!

Deal of the Day:

Old Navy

Today Only (In-Store):  Frost-Free Vests for the Family  Adults $12/Kids & Toddler $10

December 17, 2016

Today was the long awaited day!  Perhaps more time would have been ideal, but the weather dictated otherwise.  With freezing temps arriving soon, the lemon harvest was held this afternoon.  In total, the tree produced 12 lemons this year.  That’s less than last year, but the newly harvested yield is of a much higher quality.  They are significantly larger and look beautiful.  I cannot wait to enjoy them.  Lemon meringue pie!  Lemon sponge cake!  Mmmm…mmm…mmm!

Temperatures approached 80 here today.  The wind began howling a little after 7 pm, and we are expecting temperatures in the 20s by morning.  I cannot complain about our frigid temperatures compared to what many of you are currently experiencing, but the drastic fluctuations are harsh in their own right.

I hear you can get tickets to tomorrow’s Chiefs game at Arrowhead for cheap.  However, I don’t think that’s much of a deal!  Stay warm everyone and be safe!

Deals of the Day:

Old Navy Today Only (In-Store)

  • Jeans for the Family:  Kids & Baby $6/Adults $12
  • Outerwear for the Family:  Kids & Baby $15/Adults $20

Kohls Online Exclusive (Today Only)

Extra 20% Off Clothing & Accessories for the Family (Promo Code:  BUYNOW)

December 16, 2016

Soles with Goals:  146.81 miles reported!

Deals of the Day:

Old Navy

Today Online:  Extra 10% Off Everything.  Use Code:  TREAT

Today In-Store:  Women’s Tanks $3.  Adults PJ Pants $5

Saturday (12/17) Double Doorbuster:  Epic Deals on Jeans & Outerwear.  Stores Open 8 am.

Petco

12/17:  Get your pet’s photo taken with Santa $9.95.  All proceeds help homeless animals.

December 15, 2016

Soles with Goals:  134.44 miles reported!

My holiday baking this year has been minimal, but yesterday I attempted to create an apple cranberry pie with a twist of orange and spice.  I’m still trying to decide if I actually like it, as it has such an unusual flavor profile.   It’s not bad, just very different.  As someone who loves chocolate and really rich sweets, I tend to choose those over fruity desserts.  So in fairness to the pie, perhaps I am not the best judge.  I have frozen the rest of the pie and will let my family taste it over the Christmas holiday.  I’m curious what they will think.  For tonight, I will satiate my sweet tooth by watching The Great American Baking Show!  Oh!  Oh!  I just saw the preview!  It’s pie week!!!

Deals of the Day:

Olive Garden

Get a $10 Bonus Card for Every $50 in Gift Cards

JCPenney

Friday & Saturday:  $10, $20 or $100 Coupon Giveaway (While supplies last.  Stores open early.)

Spend $100 on Gift Cards, Get $25 Off $25 Coupon

Old Navy

Today Only (Online):  Flannel Shirts for the Family $10

Woodman’s

Russet Potatoes 8 lb $.99

December 14, 2016

Soles with Goals:  125.06 miles reported!

Deals of the Day:

Old Navy

Today Only (in-store & online):  All Adults & Kids Performance Active 50% Off

Ibotta Rebates

$.25 any brand White Granulated Sugar

$.25 any brand Brown Sugar

$.25 any brand One Gallon White Milk

$.25 any brand Bread

$.25 any brand Bananas (H-E-B)

$.25 any brand Onions

$.25 any brand Carrots

$.25 any brand Red Bell Peppers

$.25 any brand Peanut Butter 12 oz or larger (H-E-B)

$.25 any brand Breakfast Cereal 12 oz or larger

$1.00 when buy 2 Chex Cereals

$.50 Canada Dry, Squirt or 7-Up 2 Liter Bottle

$.50 when Buy 4 Diet Coke 2 Liter Bottles

$1.00 when Buy 3 Diet Coke 12-Can Fridgepacks

$1.50 Diet Coke 24 pack

$1.50 Pyrex Glassware Products

Fareway

Cool Whip 8 oz $.67

Philadelphia Cream Cheese 8 oz $.97

Fareway Baking Chips $.97

Fareway Butter $1.88

Green Peppers 3 for $1

Festival Foods

Festival Grade A Large Eggs dozen $.48 (with store coupon)

Festival Butter $1.88 (with store coupon)

Kraft Cheese Chunks or Shredded Cheese 7-8 oz $1.68 (with store coupon)

Essential Everyday Canned Vegetables $.38 (with store coupon)

Jumbo Sweet Yellow Onions $.68/lb

Prego Pasta Sauce $.98 (with store coupon)

H-E-B

Fresh Boston Butt Pork Roast $1/lb

Large Gold Pineapple $1.25 each

Kraft Shredded Natural Cheese 5-8 oz 2 for $4 (with in-store coupon when you buy 2)

Buy H-E-B Flavored Tortilla Chips 11-12.5 oz, Get FREE H-E-B Soda 2 Liter (in-store coupon)

Buy H-E-B Easy Melt 32 oz, Get FREE H-E-B Restaurant Style Tortilla Strips 13 oz & Jimmy Dean Sausage 16 oz (with in-store coupon)

Buy Rice or Corn Chex 18 oz, Get FREE Peter Pan Peanut Butter 15-16.3 oz (in-store coupon)

  • Buy 2 Chex Cereal $1.oo Ibotta Rebate
  • Any Brand Peanut Butter $.25 Ibotta Rebate

7-Up 2 Liter Bottle 5 for $5

  • 7-Up, Canada Dry or Squirt 2 Liter $.50 Ibotta Rebate

Hy-Vee

Chex Cereal $1.49 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card/limit 1) $1.99 (without card)

  • Save $1 on 2 Big G Cereals coupon (coupons.com)
  • Buy 2 Chex Cereal $1.00 Ibotta Rebate

Puffs 3 pk $3.47 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card)

  • $.50 Off Digital Coupon available on hy-vee.com OR
  • $.25 Off 1 Puffs Product printable coupon on coupons.com

C&H Pure Cane Sugar 4 lb $1.48

  • Save $.75 on 1 C&H Sugar 4 lb bag coupon (in prior coupon circular–last week’s?) OR
  • Save $.75 on any 2 C&H Sugar Products 2 lbs or larger printable coupon (redplum.com)
  • $.25 any brand White Granulated Sugar Ibotta Rebate

Pepsi 2 Liters 5 for $5

  • Save $2 on any 5 Pepsi Cola 2 Liter Bottles (coupons.com)

Hy-Vee Green Beans or Corn $.29

Del Monte Gold Giant Pineapple $.98 each

Hy-Vee Grade A Fresh Large Eggs 18 ct $.79

Hy-Vee Baking Chips $.99

Kraft Dressing $.99 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card)

Hy-Vee Oats $1.48 (with Fuel Saver + Perks card)

Sprouts Farmers Market

Golden Ripe Pineapples $.98 each

Yellow Onions 2 lbs for $1

  • $.25 any brand Onions Ibotta rebate

Sales vary by location.  Check your local ads.

December 13, 2016

Well, I was able to make an update on the home page today, and then the content on my edit screen disappeared yet again.  So I will continue to use this page as the default page until I am able to get the issues resolved.  Again, the Soles with Goals page has so far been unaffected.  Let’s hope it stays that way!

December 12, 2016

Deals of the Day:

Dressbarn

25% Off Entire Order Online and FREE Shipping

FREE Star Wars, Guardians of the Galaxy and Frozen Printable Snowflake Patterns

Click the above link and then go to “Snowflake Patterns” at the top of the page to choose your theme.

Kmart Freebie Saturday

December 17:  First 100 Kids 12 and Younger Receive FREE Christmas Stickers & Pencils

December 11, 2016

This is my hail Mary attempt to be up and blogging again.  I have been experiencing technical issues since Wednesday.  I am unable to edit the home page.  The issue is isolated to that page, so Soles with Goals has been uninterrupted.  Trust me, after multiple attempts to get help from support, I am beyond frustrated and will never recommend Fat Cow as a host again.  Before I get too far, I am going to see if I can even get this page to publish.  I just wanted to attempt to explain why the blog has gone silent.