Wow. What a weekend. LOL
Jenna is trying to plan her Senior Project. Here, in her HS, the seniors must do a major research project with papers, presentations and a physical product. This must be something that is new to them that they learn about, they must have a mentor (NOT a relative) and must have their thesis planned and approved by the board before the end of their Junior year. It is a major part of their senior year. And, they cannot graduate without it being approved and passed by the board. Wild. So, some of the previous projects have included wood working where the student made things like a doghouse, a gun rack or a dollhouse. There have been community projects and concerts, people have learned to sew or crochet, to cook or to do any number of things.
Jenna wants to learn to sew and make a 14th century french outfit. This would include study of the materials used, the reasons behind color choices and fabric choices, trade information and maybe even other things. I have no idea yet!
She really just wants to get involved with the local SCA group and thinks this is a great way to do that and make sure that I follow through! LOL
For those who do not know, the SCA is a group of people who recreate medieval life. They make clothing, fight and do any number of things true to this time period. They are great people and it is truly interesting! I have always wanted to be involved but was waiting to have the time and energy. Since that may never happen, I contacted the local group this weekend! We should be attending our first newcomers meeting on the 22nd. I can't wait and neither can Jenna.
Braeden started school today. I was a nervous wreck. He was so excited! I don't even think he noticed me leaving. I will let y'all know tomorrow how he did.
I have friends coming into town tomorrow morning. They will be staying with us for a few days. I actually did not know they were coming that early, I thought they would be getting here tomorrow night! I have had to revamp my menu plans to try to accomodate5 more people.... with no money to buy any extra food!! AND, I so did not follow my menu plan last week. I was bad....
So, with no further ado....
Monday - I made a huge pot roast with lots of veggies and gravy! Yum...
Tuesday - Leftover pot roast and gravy with egg noodles. Veggies on side.
Wednesday - Taco Pie
Thursday - Coconut chicken, rice patties, I may make sweet potato wedges as well.
Friday - Leftovers.
Saturday - Pasta bake. I may make spinach and mushroom manicotti. Or it may end up being just baked ziti or something.
Sunday - Either homemade pizza or..... breakfast for dinner maybe.
Breakfasts - Cold cereal, oatmeal, grits, waffles or pancakes.
Lunches - PB & J, grilled cheese, leftovers, hotdogs or veggie burgers.
I am definitely a little undecided about this weeks' menu. I may end up changing it altogether!
Showing posts with label Menu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Menu. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
Menu Planning Revisited
I have been horrible at menu planning lately. The past few months have been last minute decisions and way too much money spent on food. So, it's back to the drawing board! I am trying to get back in the habit of planning my meals in advance and shopping with a plan. I planned out a months worth of menus this weekend and went and did my monthly shopping. I spent approximately $310 on groceries for the month. I will probably have to pick up one or two things throughout the month like bread or fresh vegetables. But, probably not too much as I am planning to try to keep it to the bare minimums. We are trying to save money for our trip to Florida this summer!
As a bonus, we are trying to switch our meals over to semi-vegetarian (flexitarian) which will save us money on meat. I have been exploring new recipes and trying to get some ideas of foods my family will eat that are a little healthier and more economical. So, this week's menu reflects that to some extent. Hopefully I will stick to this plan, although I do have a month's worth of meals to choose from if something falls apart at the last minute!
Menu for the week of 4/20 - 4/26
Monday - Vegetarian version of Skillet Bow Tie Lasagna made with mushrooms, onions, peppers, zucchini and whatever else I happen to throw in! Also trying to make Soft Buttery Breadsticks.
Tuesday - Thai style vegetable stir fry with wild rice, brown rice and whole wheat orzo.
Wednesday - Hubby is off this day! Making him his favorite Country Fried Steak with mashed potatoes, country gravy and corn. I may also make some whole wheat rolls.
Thursday - Lentils and beans with brown rice. I have several different recipes I want to try out so I am not sure exactly which one I will pick!
Friday - Leftovers/ Whatever you can find in the fridge!
Saturday - Pizza Casserole but made with no ground beef and adding mushrooms, black olives and extra cheese! Probably making some whole wheat breadsticks or garlic rolls to go with this.
Sunday - IF hubby is off work and feels like cooking, we may have Frito pie. Served with either steamed broccoli or maybe a salad. If he is at work and cannot make his famous chili then I will end up making breakfast for dinner, probably.
Need more ideas for dinner? Check out all of the great menus over at Menu Planning Monday on I'm An Organizing Junkie!
As a bonus, we are trying to switch our meals over to semi-vegetarian (flexitarian) which will save us money on meat. I have been exploring new recipes and trying to get some ideas of foods my family will eat that are a little healthier and more economical. So, this week's menu reflects that to some extent. Hopefully I will stick to this plan, although I do have a month's worth of meals to choose from if something falls apart at the last minute!
Menu for the week of 4/20 - 4/26
Monday - Vegetarian version of Skillet Bow Tie Lasagna made with mushrooms, onions, peppers, zucchini and whatever else I happen to throw in! Also trying to make Soft Buttery Breadsticks.
Tuesday - Thai style vegetable stir fry with wild rice, brown rice and whole wheat orzo.
Wednesday - Hubby is off this day! Making him his favorite Country Fried Steak with mashed potatoes, country gravy and corn. I may also make some whole wheat rolls.
Thursday - Lentils and beans with brown rice. I have several different recipes I want to try out so I am not sure exactly which one I will pick!
Friday - Leftovers/ Whatever you can find in the fridge!
Saturday - Pizza Casserole but made with no ground beef and adding mushrooms, black olives and extra cheese! Probably making some whole wheat breadsticks or garlic rolls to go with this.
Sunday - IF hubby is off work and feels like cooking, we may have Frito pie. Served with either steamed broccoli or maybe a salad. If he is at work and cannot make his famous chili then I will end up making breakfast for dinner, probably.
Need more ideas for dinner? Check out all of the great menus over at Menu Planning Monday on I'm An Organizing Junkie!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Help Me Out?
I have not been feeling well, physically or emotionally, for the past few days. Just down in the dumps and yucky. Nothing too worry about, Mom, just blah, meh and so forth.
One of the decisions I have recently made is that I need to start cooking and eating healthier. My family could all use the benefits of healthier eating. However, I am a down-home, southern cook. I cook meat and potatoes meals. That is all I really know how to cook. So, I am looking for help. I want all of you to send me your tried and true recipes for low carb and non-meat meals. Things that you have eaten and loved that are actually healthy and taste good! I am not averse to tofu or meat substitutes and we are adventurous eaters... I just don't usually cook that way!
I am feeding two toddlers, a teen and hubby and I. The teen will probably try anything once. The toddlers are happy with pb&j as needed. Hubby and I love eating different things. I am not just interested in a change for health reasons. I also am very very bored with the same damn meals showing up on my menu every week. I need a change!
So, help me out?
One of the decisions I have recently made is that I need to start cooking and eating healthier. My family could all use the benefits of healthier eating. However, I am a down-home, southern cook. I cook meat and potatoes meals. That is all I really know how to cook. So, I am looking for help. I want all of you to send me your tried and true recipes for low carb and non-meat meals. Things that you have eaten and loved that are actually healthy and taste good! I am not averse to tofu or meat substitutes and we are adventurous eaters... I just don't usually cook that way!
I am feeding two toddlers, a teen and hubby and I. The teen will probably try anything once. The toddlers are happy with pb&j as needed. Hubby and I love eating different things. I am not just interested in a change for health reasons. I also am very very bored with the same damn meals showing up on my menu every week. I need a change!
So, help me out?
Thursday, April 24, 2008
The Thursday of Boredom
Ok. First off, I MUST do my menu or I will kick myself later. I already have everything I need for this weeks menu so no more shopping needed. Thank god.
Thursday - Hamburger Gravy and Rice
Friday - Chicken Stew in the Crockpot and Angel Biscuits
Saturday - Leftovers
Sunday - Meat loaf, mashed potatoes and corn with homemade bread
Monday - Hot dogs, Brats and fries with green beans
Tuesday - Chicken Fajitas
Wednesday - Leftovers or Pasta
There. Done. LOL
I am feeling much better today, my back is hurting no worse than it normally does, lol. My children made me insane yesterday. I seriously thought about trying to sell them to the circus. But I think once anyone saw the way they were acting they would refuse to take them. Well. The two youngest anyway. I rarely have problems with my oldest. She is a good girl. Just lazy and lacking in common sense. But that is a typical teenage malady. I remember being the same way myself.
Today I am still trying to get my laundry folded. And I plan to go through the rest of my cabinets to organize and inventory. If it happens, great. Probably, I will not have time. The boys canNOT stand to have me in the cabinets without trying to be in them as well. I may just wait until tonight to do it. After they are in bed. That's when i get the majority of my housework done, anyway!
On a completely different note, I totally want this shirt from Mominatrix. I think it would be fab to wear to play dates. LOL. Because, you know, bondage is the new black. LOL If you have never checked out Mominatrix, you should. She has some great articles on how being a parent affects your sex life. And sex as a mom is definitely different! This article, in particular, is a great one for moms to read.
No planting happened yesterday. My husband irritates me immensly at times. He just sits around when I need him to do things. I asked him when he wanted to go get the soil we need and he answered, "whenever". Sometimes, I just want an answer. I don't want to always be the one making decisions and choosing what to do, when to do it and how to do it. I would love it if he gave me input! That's why I ask! If I didn't want his ideas I would just do what I want ALL of the time. Not just most of the time. LOL
Anyway, not much going on right now. I will try to post again later, but who knows.
Thursday - Hamburger Gravy and Rice
Friday - Chicken Stew in the Crockpot and Angel Biscuits
Saturday - Leftovers
Sunday - Meat loaf, mashed potatoes and corn with homemade bread
Monday - Hot dogs, Brats and fries with green beans
Tuesday - Chicken Fajitas
Wednesday - Leftovers or Pasta
There. Done. LOL
I am feeling much better today, my back is hurting no worse than it normally does, lol. My children made me insane yesterday. I seriously thought about trying to sell them to the circus. But I think once anyone saw the way they were acting they would refuse to take them. Well. The two youngest anyway. I rarely have problems with my oldest. She is a good girl. Just lazy and lacking in common sense. But that is a typical teenage malady. I remember being the same way myself.
Today I am still trying to get my laundry folded. And I plan to go through the rest of my cabinets to organize and inventory. If it happens, great. Probably, I will not have time. The boys canNOT stand to have me in the cabinets without trying to be in them as well. I may just wait until tonight to do it. After they are in bed. That's when i get the majority of my housework done, anyway!
On a completely different note, I totally want this shirt from Mominatrix. I think it would be fab to wear to play dates. LOL. Because, you know, bondage is the new black. LOL If you have never checked out Mominatrix, you should. She has some great articles on how being a parent affects your sex life. And sex as a mom is definitely different! This article, in particular, is a great one for moms to read.
No planting happened yesterday. My husband irritates me immensly at times. He just sits around when I need him to do things. I asked him when he wanted to go get the soil we need and he answered, "whenever". Sometimes, I just want an answer. I don't want to always be the one making decisions and choosing what to do, when to do it and how to do it. I would love it if he gave me input! That's why I ask! If I didn't want his ideas I would just do what I want ALL of the time. Not just most of the time. LOL
Anyway, not much going on right now. I will try to post again later, but who knows.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Today had been an interesting day so far. And it is only 10:45 am. I can't wait to see what the afternoon has in store for me!
First, I woke up to less back pain than yesterday, but a toddler trying to poke my eyes out. The Middlest Child was trying to wake me up by putting my glasses on me. And then he handed me his cup and waited. LOL So, I got up and got him a drink. He proceeded to be sick. All over the place. He was also running a temp so i gave him Tylenol and held him for a bit. He was an unhappy boy. He seems to be feeling a little better now, at least he is napping without crying. I swear, if I could get all three of the kids healthy at the same time it would be a miracle. I had to cancel a playdate today for the baby because I don't want to chance infecting anyone else's children with this nasty bug.
DH decided to cook breakfast and made pancakes and sausage. Yum. Anything I don't have to cook always tastes so good.
So, I went outside to smoke a cig this morning and what do you know... a fire behind my house. I'm talking flames shooting up to the sky and billowing clouds of black smoke. It was across a field from the house, back in some woods. I was getting ready to call the fire dept when i heard sirens. A fire truck, 2 other trucks and about 20 cops came tearing through my yard and across the field. They hooked up their hoses to a fire hydrant across the street which necessitated the closing of said street to traffic. Lots of excitement. It was an old barn in the woods burning. the cop I spoke to said they had no idea at this point what started it. I have my suspicions. there are some neighborhood boys who cut across the field and go back there to hang out all the time. It wouldn't surprise me if it was started by them. Either accidentally or on purpose... who knows.
I'm just glad they got it put out OK.
My garden is growing like gangbusters! LOL I will try to post pics again one day soon. The plants are all up and growing well. Soon i will have to thin the plants. We still have several other things to plant in seperate container planters. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, zucchini, watermelon and pumpkins. I think i am going to attempt to get all of these started today.
I have about 4 loads of laundry to fold. I HATE folding laundry. With a passion. I don't mind washing it. And I kind of like drying it. I hang out a lot of it to dry on lines behind the house. I like taking down the crisp clothes. I just hate having to deal with it afterwords.
I also have to decide on my menu for this week. hmmmmm......
Wednesday - Country Fried Steak, Au Gratin Potatoes, Peas
I will decide on the rest after I get the sales papers in the mail later.
Nothing earth shaking going on in my life. I sometimes wonder why i blog! LOL It can't be very interesting to read about potty training and folding clothes.
Anyway, I will be back later on with more menus and who knows what else!
First, I woke up to less back pain than yesterday, but a toddler trying to poke my eyes out. The Middlest Child was trying to wake me up by putting my glasses on me. And then he handed me his cup and waited. LOL So, I got up and got him a drink. He proceeded to be sick. All over the place. He was also running a temp so i gave him Tylenol and held him for a bit. He was an unhappy boy. He seems to be feeling a little better now, at least he is napping without crying. I swear, if I could get all three of the kids healthy at the same time it would be a miracle. I had to cancel a playdate today for the baby because I don't want to chance infecting anyone else's children with this nasty bug.
DH decided to cook breakfast and made pancakes and sausage. Yum. Anything I don't have to cook always tastes so good.
So, I went outside to smoke a cig this morning and what do you know... a fire behind my house. I'm talking flames shooting up to the sky and billowing clouds of black smoke. It was across a field from the house, back in some woods. I was getting ready to call the fire dept when i heard sirens. A fire truck, 2 other trucks and about 20 cops came tearing through my yard and across the field. They hooked up their hoses to a fire hydrant across the street which necessitated the closing of said street to traffic. Lots of excitement. It was an old barn in the woods burning. the cop I spoke to said they had no idea at this point what started it. I have my suspicions. there are some neighborhood boys who cut across the field and go back there to hang out all the time. It wouldn't surprise me if it was started by them. Either accidentally or on purpose... who knows.
I'm just glad they got it put out OK.
My garden is growing like gangbusters! LOL I will try to post pics again one day soon. The plants are all up and growing well. Soon i will have to thin the plants. We still have several other things to plant in seperate container planters. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, zucchini, watermelon and pumpkins. I think i am going to attempt to get all of these started today.
I have about 4 loads of laundry to fold. I HATE folding laundry. With a passion. I don't mind washing it. And I kind of like drying it. I hang out a lot of it to dry on lines behind the house. I like taking down the crisp clothes. I just hate having to deal with it afterwords.
I also have to decide on my menu for this week. hmmmmm......
Wednesday - Country Fried Steak, Au Gratin Potatoes, Peas
I will decide on the rest after I get the sales papers in the mail later.
Nothing earth shaking going on in my life. I sometimes wonder why i blog! LOL It can't be very interesting to read about potty training and folding clothes.
Anyway, I will be back later on with more menus and who knows what else!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Menus and Pottys
Menu plans for this coming week are:
Thursday - Grilled Cheese and soup
Friday - Cowboy Beans and Butter Dips
Saturday - Smoked Pork Chops, Pasta, Green Beans
Sunday - Stuffed Chicken Breast, Portobello Rice, Peas, Fresh Bread
Monday - Leftovers
Tuesday - Pot Roast with veggies, homemade bread
Wednesday - Some kind of chicken in the crockpot! Any ideas? I need something new.... Send recipes! LOL
I have a busy week ahead and am not sure if I will be able to stick to this schedule exactly. We will see.
The Boy had a rough day with the potty training. I think he was after attention from his father. He peed on the floor. Again and again. Within sight of the potty chair. When I KNOW he can hold it to get there. Accidents happen but I think this was just attention seeking. I am not sure how to handle that. I brought his attention to it each time and told him he needed to go on the potty. But did not scold him. And put him on the pot and reminded him what it was for. I guess that was right! LOL He still will not poop on the pot. I think I am in for a long journey with that one.
I am very very tired today. I have been doing a lot of work outside and also not sleeping well for the last few days.
Yesterday, The Girl had THREE nosebleeds. Gushers. It was scary. We went to the doctor today and he thinks it is allergy related. If they do not taper off with the new nose spray he gave her, she will have to go see an ENT. I hope the spray helps. I hate seeing her like that! I know it had to scare her too, but she is a trooper.
If I am not around quite as often for a bit, I am still trying to make it by everyone's blogs regularly. But, I am pretty busy with my couponing and trying to make some extra money online. I am going to try to post at least every other day. Hopefully i will get back to every day soon!
My mind is fuzzy right now, so I am going to head to bed. Wish me a deep sleep and good dreams.... zzzzzzzz........
Thursday - Grilled Cheese and soup
Friday - Cowboy Beans and Butter Dips
Saturday - Smoked Pork Chops, Pasta, Green Beans
Sunday - Stuffed Chicken Breast, Portobello Rice, Peas, Fresh Bread
Monday - Leftovers
Tuesday - Pot Roast with veggies, homemade bread
Wednesday - Some kind of chicken in the crockpot! Any ideas? I need something new.... Send recipes! LOL
I have a busy week ahead and am not sure if I will be able to stick to this schedule exactly. We will see.
The Boy had a rough day with the potty training. I think he was after attention from his father. He peed on the floor. Again and again. Within sight of the potty chair. When I KNOW he can hold it to get there. Accidents happen but I think this was just attention seeking. I am not sure how to handle that. I brought his attention to it each time and told him he needed to go on the potty. But did not scold him. And put him on the pot and reminded him what it was for. I guess that was right! LOL He still will not poop on the pot. I think I am in for a long journey with that one.
I am very very tired today. I have been doing a lot of work outside and also not sleeping well for the last few days.
Yesterday, The Girl had THREE nosebleeds. Gushers. It was scary. We went to the doctor today and he thinks it is allergy related. If they do not taper off with the new nose spray he gave her, she will have to go see an ENT. I hope the spray helps. I hate seeing her like that! I know it had to scare her too, but she is a trooper.
If I am not around quite as often for a bit, I am still trying to make it by everyone's blogs regularly. But, I am pretty busy with my couponing and trying to make some extra money online. I am going to try to post at least every other day. Hopefully i will get back to every day soon!
My mind is fuzzy right now, so I am going to head to bed. Wish me a deep sleep and good dreams.... zzzzzzzz........
Monday, April 7, 2008
Menu Planning and CVS deals UPDATED
Akkk..... my menu planning is behind. Here is what I have so far. I think I am only doing until Wednesday. I will start doing my new planning on Wednesdays after the sales papers come out....
Monday - Leftovers
Tuesday - Homemade Pizza and salad
Wednesday - Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and corn
That's it folks. I need to go to Winn Dixie and go shopping. They are having one heck of a great deal going on for the month of April. Buy $75 worth of Kraft products and get a $25 Gift Card for free! The GC's are from places like Lowe's or Longhorn. Read more about this deal here... Homeschooling Four gives a great explanation of the deal and what products qualify. Kraft products are not just cheese! They include things like Koolaid and Digiorno pizza. So... I am headed to WD for the things I need to buy this month that will work towards this deal.
On Wednesday I will check out the new sales and post a week long menu...
As for CVS, I went last night to take advantage of a CVS coupon for $2 off of Huggies that expired yesterday. These were my deals...
Transaction 1 -
2 Febreze Air Effects sprays
3 packs Duracell batteries
1 pack Huggies pull ups
2 packs Huggies diapers
1 Febreze Noticables kit
1 Venus Embrace razor
1 CVS pantyliners
1 Bath Buddies
Total before sales = 87.98
After sales but before taxes= 68.50
I used a total of $60.74 in coupons and ECBs. I paid oop $9.51 and got back $25 in ECBs.
I saved a total of $80.22 per my receipt.
Transaction 2 -
1 Swiffer duster refill
1 Swiffer Wet refill
2 8 ct Zantac 150
Total before sales = $25.96
Total after sales but before taxes = $21.96
I used a total of $19.98 in coupons and ECBs. I paid oop $2.89 and got back $5 in ECBs.
I saved a total of $23.98 per my receipt.
So, with 2 transactions, I brought home $113.94 in product for only $12.40. AND I brought home $25 in ECBs for next week. Pretty darn good if I do say so myself!
UPDATE*** @nd Trip to CVS Thursday Night!
I went back because my mom sent me her spare CVS key card and some ECBs. So, I went to geta nother diaper deal! I did 3 transactions on mom's card but I will just give total info:
2 Duracell 4 pack AA @ 4.99 each
1 Duracell Ultra 4 pack AA @ 5.69
6 1 liter Dasani waters @ 1.79 each
1 Pepcid EZ chews 25 ct @ 7.99
1 pack Pull Ups @ 8.99
2 packs Huggies Diapers @ 8.99 each
Total saved after sales, coupons and ECBs = 54.85
Paid oop = 17.85
ECBs back = 5
On my card I did one transaction:
1 Pepcid EZ chews 25 ct @ 7.99
2 Covergirl TruBlend Whipped Foundations @ 9.49
Total saved after sales, coupons and ECBs = 28.79
Total oop = 1.67
ECBs back = 17
Yay!
End of Update ! LOL
No further progress on potty training.... but no accidents today! He did pee in his pullups when we went to get Sissy from school... but I expected that. Tomorrow we will be home most of the day and I am getting out the big boy underwear. I'll let y'all know how it goes!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Coupons, Frugal Shopping and a Recipe!
Bina asked yesterday where I get my coupons. Well, all I can say is "Thanks Mom!" LOL But, seriously, my mom mails me all of the coupons she gets in her paper that she does not use. And any that her friends or my other family members give her. I also get the Sunday paper every week. There are usually at least one or two coupons in there worth the cost of the paper. I also check out many different online resources for printable coupons. AND I recently signed up to get the coupon inserts mailed to me at home. UPDATE: This is not valid... it is just the ads and not the coupons! Darn... You can sign up for this here. I joined a couponing group on Yahoo that does coupon"trains" where you get about 50 coupons in the mail and take what you can use and replace with ones from your own stash. That is starting soon. I like this idea as different coupons are available in different parts of the country.
I know. So many of the coupons are for things you won't use! Or, in my case, the store brand is cheaper than buying a name brand with a coupon. For food, sadly, I have found this to be true. BUT. Sometimes you come across a really great deal. For instance, Wally World has Birdseye Steam Fresh vegetables on sale for 2/$2. I had a coupon for $1 off when I bought two. So, I got 2 bags of the broccoli for $1. Not bad. Definitely worth it to me!
The way I do it, right now, is that I cut out every single coupon I find in the paper or that someone sends to me. I have two little expandable coupon files, one for food items and one for nonfood items. I separate the coupons by category (dairy, meat, canned goods, dish soap, paper goods, etc) and file them away. I am in the process of creating a database on my computer of all of my coupons so that it is easier to know what I have and what is about to expire. Right now I just try to go through them periodically and throw out the expired coupons. I recently found out that military families overseas can use expired coupons so I will be saving these from now on and finding out where to send them.
Each week when the sale papers come out I take a look at them. I usually already have my menu planned for the week. If there is a really good sale for an item that I have a coupon for I might go and get that. It depends on the deal. Usually I would then incorporate that item into my menu for that week or the next. Sometimes I find such a good deal that I stock up on something and don't need to buy it for months. Recently I found Triscuit crackers on sale for 2/$1. I bought 4 boxes and will not buy crackers for at least 3 months now.
I also visit several different websites that lay out the deals for you and tell you what coupons are available online in conjunction with these deals. The sites I visit almost every day are: Money Saving Mom, Thrifty Florida Mama, Fiddledeedee, Centsible Shopper, The Centsible Sawyer, More Than Enough, The New Frugal Mom, Mommies With Cents and Freebies 4 Mom. There are other sites I visit too but these are the ones I try to hit every day without fail. Thanks to Jessica for sending me links to several of these! Many of the deals are overlaps but not all of them. It is worth checking out! Money Saving Mom has links on her site to many different couponing sites.
It takes some time to get the coupons together and check the ads and sites. But the more you do it the faster you get. Everybody has a different system. I am still working on mine. My best advice is just jump in and give it a shot! And MAKE A MENU for the week! It is an invaluable tool to being frugal and getting good deals. In fact, I am about to begin making up my menus on Wednesday instead of Monday because that is when the sale papers come out! That way I can shop from the new sales each week for my menu.
Speaking of menus... Jessica mentioned that my Hamburger Gravy and Rice sounded pretty good. SO, here is a recipe. The closest I can get anyway since I don't follow a recipe! LOL
1 pound lean Ground Beef ( You can use less or more and have no effect on the recipe really... it depends upon how much actual meat you want in the gravy)
1 onion, minced
Minced Garlic
salt
pepper
Worcetershire Sauce
Cook all of this until the meat is browned, drain and return to pan. (I use a LARGE electric skillet for this)
Add to meat:
2 packs of Knorr Vegetable Soup mix (this has all kinds of dehydrated veggies in it)
Sometimes I might add some dried or canned mushrooms as well
Enough Water to cover the meat and make as much gravy as you want.
Bring to a boil and add Beef Boillion (I use Better than Bouillion) to taste.
Thicken with cornstarch and water slurry to make a thick gravy.
Add pepper to taste. (We like a lot)
Spoon over cooked white rice and enjoy!
I like this recipe because it is an all in one. The veggies are right in the gravy. The Knorr mix is a little expensive so I am looking for alternatives. My family would eat this once a week if I cooked it!
So, there you go. I am still refining my coupon system and learning every single day how to be more frugal and save money. It's an ongoing process but the least I can do to contribute to our household finances!
I know. So many of the coupons are for things you won't use! Or, in my case, the store brand is cheaper than buying a name brand with a coupon. For food, sadly, I have found this to be true. BUT. Sometimes you come across a really great deal. For instance, Wally World has Birdseye Steam Fresh vegetables on sale for 2/$2. I had a coupon for $1 off when I bought two. So, I got 2 bags of the broccoli for $1. Not bad. Definitely worth it to me!
The way I do it, right now, is that I cut out every single coupon I find in the paper or that someone sends to me. I have two little expandable coupon files, one for food items and one for nonfood items. I separate the coupons by category (dairy, meat, canned goods, dish soap, paper goods, etc) and file them away. I am in the process of creating a database on my computer of all of my coupons so that it is easier to know what I have and what is about to expire. Right now I just try to go through them periodically and throw out the expired coupons. I recently found out that military families overseas can use expired coupons so I will be saving these from now on and finding out where to send them.
Each week when the sale papers come out I take a look at them. I usually already have my menu planned for the week. If there is a really good sale for an item that I have a coupon for I might go and get that. It depends on the deal. Usually I would then incorporate that item into my menu for that week or the next. Sometimes I find such a good deal that I stock up on something and don't need to buy it for months. Recently I found Triscuit crackers on sale for 2/$1. I bought 4 boxes and will not buy crackers for at least 3 months now.
I also visit several different websites that lay out the deals for you and tell you what coupons are available online in conjunction with these deals. The sites I visit almost every day are: Money Saving Mom, Thrifty Florida Mama, Fiddledeedee, Centsible Shopper, The Centsible Sawyer, More Than Enough, The New Frugal Mom, Mommies With Cents and Freebies 4 Mom. There are other sites I visit too but these are the ones I try to hit every day without fail. Thanks to Jessica for sending me links to several of these! Many of the deals are overlaps but not all of them. It is worth checking out! Money Saving Mom has links on her site to many different couponing sites.
It takes some time to get the coupons together and check the ads and sites. But the more you do it the faster you get. Everybody has a different system. I am still working on mine. My best advice is just jump in and give it a shot! And MAKE A MENU for the week! It is an invaluable tool to being frugal and getting good deals. In fact, I am about to begin making up my menus on Wednesday instead of Monday because that is when the sale papers come out! That way I can shop from the new sales each week for my menu.
Speaking of menus... Jessica mentioned that my Hamburger Gravy and Rice sounded pretty good. SO, here is a recipe. The closest I can get anyway since I don't follow a recipe! LOL
1 pound lean Ground Beef ( You can use less or more and have no effect on the recipe really... it depends upon how much actual meat you want in the gravy)
1 onion, minced
Minced Garlic
salt
pepper
Worcetershire Sauce
Cook all of this until the meat is browned, drain and return to pan. (I use a LARGE electric skillet for this)
Add to meat:
2 packs of Knorr Vegetable Soup mix (this has all kinds of dehydrated veggies in it)
Sometimes I might add some dried or canned mushrooms as well
Enough Water to cover the meat and make as much gravy as you want.
Bring to a boil and add Beef Boillion (I use Better than Bouillion) to taste.
Thicken with cornstarch and water slurry to make a thick gravy.
Add pepper to taste. (We like a lot)
Spoon over cooked white rice and enjoy!
I like this recipe because it is an all in one. The veggies are right in the gravy. The Knorr mix is a little expensive so I am looking for alternatives. My family would eat this once a week if I cooked it!
So, there you go. I am still refining my coupon system and learning every single day how to be more frugal and save money. It's an ongoing process but the least I can do to contribute to our household finances!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Meme #1 and Menu Planning Monday
I will post the memes throughout this week so that I don't overwhelm y'all with all my info! LOL
I was tagged by both Jessica and Annie for this one... sorry it took so long!
A. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.
B. Each player answers the questions about themselves.
C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and post their names, then goes to the blogs and leaves them a comment letting them know they’ve been tagged.
What I was doing 10 years ago: hmmm.... 1998. I was getting ready to graduate from community college with an AS degree in Legal Assisting. (I never ended up using that degree) My DD was 4 yo, I was living with my mom and dad in FL. I was working at a donut shop at night. Not much else. Pretty boring at that point in my life!
5 Things on my To Do list today: Wash a crap load of dishes, finish all of my laundry and actually get it put away, go to Curves to exercise, take The Girl to her book club meeting, try to get a chance to vacuum the floors. There are many many other things on my to do for today. But, these are the top 5!
Snacks I enjoy: Anything chocolate, Cakesters or whoopie pies, apples with caramel dip, popcorn.
Things I would do if I were a Billionaire: Ha. Pay off all of my debt. And all of my moms debt, my MILs debt etc. Buy a house, travel, all of the basic things that we never get to do because we are too damn broke. I would set up college funds for the kids and trust funds that they cannot access until they are either married, already making at least $50,000 or turn 35. That way they actually have to work and learn about finances.
3 of my Bad Habits: Smoke like a chimney, drink lots of soda and read way too many blogs when I should be cleaning! LOL
5 places I have lived: Gainesville, FL; Waldo, FL; Hattiesburg, MS; Richton, MS; Petal, MS
5 jobs I have had: I was a donut finisher for many years and worked the overnight shift. I was an OMS (operations management specialist) at UPS on the night shift, I was an office manager/ fiscal specialist at a company that provided supports to developmentally disabled adults, I was a secretary/ assistant to the director for Volunteer Services in a hospital, and I was the Fiscal Supervisor/ manager of the hospital gift shop. I also once was a laborer for my dad who was a mason (brick layer). Now I am a mom and it is the hardest job I have ever had!
Ok. There ya go. I think everyone I know has pretty much done this. Jen, Chelle, Cat and anyone else... if you have not done this yet then YOU ARE IT! LOL
As for my menu for this week... here it is!
Monday - Crockpot Pineapple Chicken, wild rice and green beans
Tuesday - Baked Pasta with salad
Wednesday - Pot Roast with veggies and homemade bread
Thursday - leftovers
Friday - Hamburger Gravy with rice (this has veggies in it)
Saturday - Pepperoni Lasagna rollups and salad
Sunday - BBQ Ribs, Scalloped Potatoes, green beans and homemade bread
I had most of this already in the freezer or pantry which is why this is my menu for this week! LOL. I had to pick up one or two things for dinners and some lunch things but my total spent for groceries this morning was $27.05 for the week. Not too bad. When I get recertified for WIC on the kids I will be able to get all of our milk, some cheese, cereal, peanut butter and juice through them which will drop our spending some. With the price of milk? More than some!
This is a major issue for us as I recently had to cut my grocery budget by $70 a month. I now have budgeted only $60 a week for all groceries. I can handle that but I need to make sure I am planning ahead. Having to buy frozen pizza or microwave meals eats up a budget fast! I am looking for some good, tried and true recipes that are meatless. If you have any, share share! LOL
I was tagged by both Jessica and Annie for this one... sorry it took so long!
A. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.
B. Each player answers the questions about themselves.
C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and post their names, then goes to the blogs and leaves them a comment letting them know they’ve been tagged.
What I was doing 10 years ago: hmmm.... 1998. I was getting ready to graduate from community college with an AS degree in Legal Assisting. (I never ended up using that degree) My DD was 4 yo, I was living with my mom and dad in FL. I was working at a donut shop at night. Not much else. Pretty boring at that point in my life!
5 Things on my To Do list today: Wash a crap load of dishes, finish all of my laundry and actually get it put away, go to Curves to exercise, take The Girl to her book club meeting, try to get a chance to vacuum the floors. There are many many other things on my to do for today. But, these are the top 5!
Snacks I enjoy: Anything chocolate, Cakesters or whoopie pies, apples with caramel dip, popcorn.
Things I would do if I were a Billionaire: Ha. Pay off all of my debt. And all of my moms debt, my MILs debt etc. Buy a house, travel, all of the basic things that we never get to do because we are too damn broke. I would set up college funds for the kids and trust funds that they cannot access until they are either married, already making at least $50,000 or turn 35. That way they actually have to work and learn about finances.
3 of my Bad Habits: Smoke like a chimney, drink lots of soda and read way too many blogs when I should be cleaning! LOL
5 places I have lived: Gainesville, FL; Waldo, FL; Hattiesburg, MS; Richton, MS; Petal, MS
5 jobs I have had: I was a donut finisher for many years and worked the overnight shift. I was an OMS (operations management specialist) at UPS on the night shift, I was an office manager/ fiscal specialist at a company that provided supports to developmentally disabled adults, I was a secretary/ assistant to the director for Volunteer Services in a hospital, and I was the Fiscal Supervisor/ manager of the hospital gift shop. I also once was a laborer for my dad who was a mason (brick layer). Now I am a mom and it is the hardest job I have ever had!
Ok. There ya go. I think everyone I know has pretty much done this. Jen, Chelle, Cat and anyone else... if you have not done this yet then YOU ARE IT! LOL
As for my menu for this week... here it is!
Monday - Crockpot Pineapple Chicken, wild rice and green beans
Tuesday - Baked Pasta with salad
Wednesday - Pot Roast with veggies and homemade bread
Thursday - leftovers
Friday - Hamburger Gravy with rice (this has veggies in it)
Saturday - Pepperoni Lasagna rollups and salad
Sunday - BBQ Ribs, Scalloped Potatoes, green beans and homemade bread
I had most of this already in the freezer or pantry which is why this is my menu for this week! LOL. I had to pick up one or two things for dinners and some lunch things but my total spent for groceries this morning was $27.05 for the week. Not too bad. When I get recertified for WIC on the kids I will be able to get all of our milk, some cheese, cereal, peanut butter and juice through them which will drop our spending some. With the price of milk? More than some!
This is a major issue for us as I recently had to cut my grocery budget by $70 a month. I now have budgeted only $60 a week for all groceries. I can handle that but I need to make sure I am planning ahead. Having to buy frozen pizza or microwave meals eats up a budget fast! I am looking for some good, tried and true recipes that are meatless. If you have any, share share! LOL
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Fallin' Down On The Job
Akkk. I am fallin' down on the job here. With company here to visit you probably will not see much from me this week. For now, head over to The Barn Bums for a contest celebrating her 100th post! Yay Jessica! Then give Fried PorkChop some hell for not posting for an ENTIRE WEEK. How am I supposed to function without my pork chop??? Then, head over to We Are That Family for another great contest.
These ladies are having great contests. They also have fabulous blogs. Make sure you check them out! And also make sure to let Annie know that I need me some Fried Porkchops more than once a week. LOL....... hehe
As for my menu for this week....
Monday - Three cheese tortellini with Pesto and Salad
Tuesday - Leftovers
Wednesday - Pancakes, Bacon, Sausage and Veggie bacon
Thursday - Out to eat
Friday - Black Bean Pie and Taco Salad
Saturday - Homemade Pizza OR leftovers
Sunday - Pork Chops, mashed potatoes and peas
I already did my shopping for this week and also hit a discount grocery store in our town for snack foods, etc. Totally spent too much. My MIL is a vegetarian so I spent extra making sure I had veggie options in the house. And I also went to CVS last night.
Not too much there this week as far as good deals. I picked up $85.86 in products and saved $54.12. I paid out of pocket $31.74. I also brought home about $5 in ECBs for next trip and 3 different rain checks for items I could not find. Not too bad. But, one of the items I picked up was the wrong size and I ended up spending more on it than I was supposed to. I will be taking that back today or tomorrow.
Walgreens has a deal on Excedrin right now. 24 count boxes are on sale for $1.99. I had 4 coupons for $2 off a box. I got all 4 for free. I did have to buy something else so that I would not have a negative balance. I got Cakesters! Cause they are yummy. You can print Excedrin coupons online. Just do a search or check out Money Saving Mom again for links to coupons.
Ummm... I took a trip to Rite Aid to see if their deals would be worth my time. I was very disappointed in the availability of the advertised specials. I could not find most of what I was looking for. I ended up not purchasing anything there.
Anyone know anything about square foot gardening? Or about upside down planting? We are thinking about doing a vegetable garden. But, with somewhat limited space we think these two will be the way to go. Anyone with any experience, feel free to give me advice!
Alright, I need to go visit with my fab moms now. I will be back later!! Hopefully with pics of Sunday to wow you!
These ladies are having great contests. They also have fabulous blogs. Make sure you check them out! And also make sure to let Annie know that I need me some Fried Porkchops more than once a week. LOL....... hehe
As for my menu for this week....
Monday - Three cheese tortellini with Pesto and Salad
Tuesday - Leftovers
Wednesday - Pancakes, Bacon, Sausage and Veggie bacon
Thursday - Out to eat
Friday - Black Bean Pie and Taco Salad
Saturday - Homemade Pizza OR leftovers
Sunday - Pork Chops, mashed potatoes and peas
I already did my shopping for this week and also hit a discount grocery store in our town for snack foods, etc. Totally spent too much. My MIL is a vegetarian so I spent extra making sure I had veggie options in the house. And I also went to CVS last night.
Not too much there this week as far as good deals. I picked up $85.86 in products and saved $54.12. I paid out of pocket $31.74. I also brought home about $5 in ECBs for next trip and 3 different rain checks for items I could not find. Not too bad. But, one of the items I picked up was the wrong size and I ended up spending more on it than I was supposed to. I will be taking that back today or tomorrow.
Walgreens has a deal on Excedrin right now. 24 count boxes are on sale for $1.99. I had 4 coupons for $2 off a box. I got all 4 for free. I did have to buy something else so that I would not have a negative balance. I got Cakesters! Cause they are yummy. You can print Excedrin coupons online. Just do a search or check out Money Saving Mom again for links to coupons.
Ummm... I took a trip to Rite Aid to see if their deals would be worth my time. I was very disappointed in the availability of the advertised specials. I could not find most of what I was looking for. I ended up not purchasing anything there.
Anyone know anything about square foot gardening? Or about upside down planting? We are thinking about doing a vegetable garden. But, with somewhat limited space we think these two will be the way to go. Anyone with any experience, feel free to give me advice!
Alright, I need to go visit with my fab moms now. I will be back later!! Hopefully with pics of Sunday to wow you!
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