April Savings

April Monthly Totals

• Merchandise Total (before coupons): $1,534.26
• Value of Coupons & Store Sales: $1,019.66
• Rewards/Gift Cards/EB's Used: $372.35
• Rewards/Gift Cards/EB's Earned: $454.60
• Rebates: $252.59
• Total Cost to me for the month: negative $159.31
• # of Items: 277, # of Free Items: 185

Rebates Received

• $1.32 Nestle Crunch - DBF's address
• $4.99 Snapple rebate - DBF's address
• $6.95 Physician's Formula Bamboo Wear Compact - parents' address
• $6.99 Renpure Organics Sham/Cond x 3 - my address, DBF's address & parents' address
• $6.95 Physician's Formula Bamboo Wear Compact x 2 - my address and DBF's address
• $8 Budweiser - snacks
• $10 Heineken Produce/Meat rebate - was expecting to get $20, but I have a feeling I misread the form
• $20 Kraft Back to School Rebate - DBF's address
• $25 Rite Aid Healthy Heart rebate gift card - my address
• $72.49 Rite Aid rebates - DBF's address
• $78.49 Rite Aid rebates - my name

Received a card from Physician's Formula about the shimmer strips mascara duo rebate - I bought the totally wrong item! I'll have to return that and try again.

Random Money Stuffs

• Redeemed $45 of rewards on my Discover card for a $50 CVS gift card
• Should be getting my first bill for my Honda soon. It should be around $240/month.

5/2 - 5/8

As always, my deals all come from the wonderful folks at HCW, Slick Deals and Erica at iheartcvs.com, iheartriteaid.com and iheartwags.com.

CVS - they're doing this great promo again! Buy $25 in egift cards (gift cards that are emailed to you, print it and use it at the store right away) and get a $5 bonus egift card! You can purchase up to $150 in one transaction and get back a $30 bonus.

• Nivea Body Wash $4.88 each, buy four and use two BOGO coupons (May All You magazine) and two $4 coupons (5/2 RP) and get back $5 EB (monthly deal, WYB $15, Limit 5) = $3.24 profit or use one BOGO coupon and three $4 coupons = $2.36 profit
• Depend Variety Pack (6 ct) $6.99, use $2 coupon and get back $6.99 EB (Limit 1) = $2 profit
• Sobe Lifewater BOGO sale, use BOGO coupon = two for FREE
• Colgate Total Advanced or Enamel Strength Toothpaste (4 oz) $2.99, use $1 coupon (April All You magazine) and get back $2 EB (Limit 2) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Reach Total Care Floss (30 yards) $3.99, buy two and use BOGO coupon (1/3 RP) and get back $2 EB (Limit 2) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Dozen eggs $0.99

CVS Monthly Deals

• J&J Reach Floss (55 yard) $1.99, use $1 coupon (3/7 RP) and get back $2 EB (Limit 1) = $1 profit

Rite Aid - $5 off $20 available here.

• Cover Girl makeup BOGO sale, use BOGO coupon (4/11 RP) = two for FREE *Rebate deal available here. Fine print says you can get $12 as a rebate instead of a magazine subscription WYB $30 (pre-coupon price).
• GE Compact Flourescent Light Bulbs $2, buy two and use two $1 coupons (April All You magazine) and get back $2 (WYB 2, SCR #96) = FREE
• Nivea Body Wash $3.99, use $4 coupon (5/2 RP) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Kotex or Carefree Pantiliners $0.99, use $1 RA Kotex coupon or $1 Carefree coupon (4/25 SS) = FREE/$0.01 profit

Walgreens

• Sure Deodorant $1.50 with in-circular coupon, use $1.50 coupon (5/2 SS) = FREE *Look for ones with TMF stickers on them
• Swiffer Products - includes Wet Jet Starter Kit, Wet Jet Refills (12-16 pack), Wet Jet Cleanser (42.5 oz) or Swiffer Dusters (5 pack). All are 25% off and you get back a $2 RR for every $10 that you purchase. There's also a $10 rebate (WYB $20 worth). So buy two sets of items for $10, get back $4 in RR's ($2 each time) after the $10 rebate, you're looking a cost of $6.
• Hallmark "kids" cards $0.49 each, buy eight and get back $5 RR (WYB 8) = $1.08 profit

Printable Rebate Offers

• Aveeno Ageless Vitality Elasticity Recharging System Product $10 rebate and $5 coupon Exp. 5/31/10
• Brawny Paper Towels Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 60 days after purchase
• Caregiver's Marketplace - many rebates for a variety of items
• Clorox Toiletwand System $5 rebate Exp. 2/1/11
• Dawn Plus Vinger Alternative Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 3/14/11
• Feline Pine Scoop Kitty Litter (3.8 - 4.1 lb box) TMF Exp. 6/30/10
• Greenworks Laundry Detergent Satisfaction Guarantee
• Hershey's Kisses, Reese's PB Cup Miniatures, Hershey's Miniatures Chocolate Bars or York Peppermint Patties - buy four and recieve one Fandango Promo Code good for one movie ticket valid up to $12 Exp. 6/30/10
• Hill's Science Diet Pet Foods 3 Bag Challenge - get $5 and coupons
• Just for Men Touch of Gray Haircolor TMF up to $9.50 Exp. 12/31/2010 *This rebate appears to be once per lifetime (pooey on you Just for Men!)
• Kellogg's Bonus Bucks - buy three specially marked cereals, enter codes from box online and get $10 Bonus Buck certificate via mail. No limit on how many you can redeem. Exp. 9/30/10
• Land o Lakes Butter with Olive Oil - buy ICBINB or Smart Balance, send in UPC and receipt and get coupon for free LOL Exp. 5/31/10
• Method Laundry Detergent with Smart Clean Technology Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 6/30/10 $2 coupon available here or $4 coupon here
• Olay Facial Moisturizers, Facial Treatments and/or Facial Cleansers - spend $50, get back $20 Exp. 5/9/10
• Oxy-Strength Pet Odor & Stain Eliminator $1.50 rebate Exp. 12/31/10
• Pantene ProV Satisfaction Guarantee - 2x your purchase price (up to $12) Exp. 12/30/2010
• Physician's Formula Bamboo Wear Compact, Mirror & Brush Exp. 12/31/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from the package to qualify
• Physician's Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Eye Enhancing Mascara Duo $10.95 rebate Exp. 12/31/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from package to qualify
• Roc Brilliance Product $20 rebate Exp. 6/30/10 $3 coupon also available on same link
• NEW LINK! SC Johnson - Buy three, get back $5 (Limit 3 rebates per household) Exp. 6/30/10 ***Although you can do this rebate three times, each $5 rebate has to be mailed separately (yuck). Be careful how you purchase your items so you have enough receipts.
• Swiffer Refills - buy $20, get back $10 prepaid rewards card Exp. 6/30/10
• World's Best Cat Litter TMF up to $12.99 Exp. 12/31/10

Woo Hoo!

Woo hoo! I'm done with my Bayer coupons. I did all this shopping yesterday but didn't feel like posting last night. Did 10 times at a bunch of different stores:

• Bayer Contour or Breeze 2 Blood Glucose Monitor $19.99, used FREE coupon (10/25/09 RP *Expires 4/30!) and got back $10 RR = $10 profit

Found one lonely Stayfree: Stayfree Maxi Pads $2.99, used $2 coupon (3/28 RP) and got back $3 RR = $2.01 profit

• 8 Hallmark "kids" cards - aren't they adorable? $0.49 each, got back $5 RR (WYB 8) = $4.20 with tax
• Used $3 RR, total was $1.20, so $0.80 profit after tax

Today's shopping:

• 2 Smartfoods Popcorn $2.99 each, will submit for $5 Heineken rebate (WYB $5.01+ worth of snacks)
• 4 Pounce cat treats $1.99 each
• 3 Diet Pepsi cases $3.67 each, got back $3 RR (WYB 3) = $8 for three
• Used $3 RR and two $10 RR's, total was $3.27

Second store:

• Stayfree Maxi Pads $2.99, used $2 coupon (3/28 RP) and got back $3 RR = $2.01 profit
• 3 Capri Suns $2.99 each - will use these to finish out a Kraft rebate I was working on ($20 WYB 10 Nabisco crackers/cookies, 5 beverages and 5 Easy Mac single cups)
• 3 Diet Pepsi cases $3.67 each, got back $3 RR (WYB 3) = $8 for three
• Used $2 RR and two $10 RR's, total was $2.36

One Set of Coupons - Done

Nothing too exciting, just mostly bought the Bayer meters at WAG on their own to get that done with. Here's one transaction I did:

• Bayer Contour or Breeze 2 Blood Glucose Monitor $19.99, used FREE coupon (10/25/09 RP *Expires 4/30!) and got back $10 RR = $10 profit
• Stayfree Maxi Pads $2.99, used $2 coupon (3/28 RP) and got back $3 RR = $2.01 profit
• Imperial Sugar $2.19 with in-circular coupon
• Used $3 RR, total was $0.18

Starting to use up some of those RR's:

• 3 bags Tostitos $3.99 each, used one $1 peelie coupon (I snagged an extra coupon Sunday when I found these at another store) and will submit for $5 Dos Equis rebate (WYB 3 bags tortilla chips, Exp. 5/15)
• 2 boxes Mead envelopes $1.29 each
• Butterfinger candy bar $0.39
• Used $3 RR and $10 RR, total was $1.15

Surprisingly, a lot of stores were out of the Stayfree, but when I found some, I bought one along with the meters. At the final store of the day, I found both the Stayfree and Plackers:

• Stayfree Maxi Pads $2.99, used $2 coupon (3/28 RP) and got back $3 RR = $2.01 profit
• Plackers Dental Flossers $2, used $0.50 coupon (4/18 RP) and got back $2 RR = $0.50 profit
• Total was $2.63 - paid with gift card

I managed to use up all eight remaining Bayer coupons I had. I received my second set of 10 coupons in the mail today from ebay, so I have plenty of time to use them up before they expire on 4/30.

ShopRite

• 3 Sargento Shredded Cheeses $1.49 each, used three $0.75 coupons = FREE
• Half gallon milk $1.99
• Ready Pac lettuce $1.25
• Bartlett Pears $1.78 ($0.99/lb)
• Granny Smith Apples $2.74 ($0.99/lb)
• Perdue chicken boobies $6.59 - the package was leaking so I didn't include it in the pic
• Used $4 catalina, total was $10.32

I'm going to submit for a third $6 rebate from Natural Light at my parents' address (WYB $10 worth of produce, chicken or a whole bunch of other things, Exp. 5/2). I could have used more catalinas to bring my OOP down, but I wanted my total to be at least $10. I'm not sure if it really matters, but I'd hate to have the rebate rejected because my total OOP was low. With most rebates, I wouldn't care, but its not like I can take the chicken and fruit back to the store if the rebate gets denied!

Another Bayer Deal - Think of the Possibilities!

Sorry about the pic. I'm trying to learn how to better use the settings on my camera and this picture most definitely looked clearer on the view finder than it does now. Did most of this shopping Saturday:

Walgreens

• 2 bags Tostitos $3.99 each, used two $1 peelie coupons = $5.98, will submit for $5 Heineken rebate (WYB $5.01 worth of snacks)
• 2 Walgreens reusable bags $0.33 each with in-circular coupon
• Used $2.50 RR and $3 RR, total was $1.20

CVS - had some last NB coupons to use up. This was done on my third card, which I just got about a month ago. In that time, I've received a $5 EB for doing a survey, a $5 off $40 coupon (although I got that on all my cards), a $4 off $20 coupon at the scanner and then a second $4 off $20 via email. I guess it does pay to retire your old cards!

• 6 Nature's Bounty Vitamins - five were $4.99 each and sixth was $6.29, used six $5 coupons = $13.73 profit
• Thermacare Neck to Arm Heatwrap (one ct) $2.49, got back $2.49 EB (Limit 2) = FREE
• 2 Sunchips $3 each - is it just me, or are the compostable bags they use now so gosh darn'd loud? I'm embarassed to pick them up in the store because they make so much noise! I'll use these for a second Heineken $5 rebate at DBF's address
• 2 Gold Emblem popcorns $0.84 each
• Cat bed (forgot to put in pic) $5.99
• Mentos Gum $1.79 (total was negative $1.20, so I picked this up as I was paying)
• Used $4 off $20 coupon, total was $0.69

CVS again - one last run at the Olay rebate. I'm so appreciate of DBF and my parents letting me use their addresses for rebates. I do almost every rebate in triplicate - love it!

• 2 Olay Total Effects Moisturizers $18.99 each and 2 Olay Total Effects face washes $9.99 each, used two FREE face wash coupons (WYB moisturizer, 3/28 SS) and two $3 coupons (3/7 P&G), got back $10 EB (WYB $24.99 worth of qualifying items) and will submit for the $20 Olay rebate (WYB $50 worth) = $1.98 OOP, but then, figuring in this overage:
• 6 Nature's Bounty Vitamins - three were $4.99 and three was $5.79, used six $5 coupons = $13.43 profit
• Used $5 off $40 coupon, $4.49 EB, $4.50 EB, total was $8.35, that makes my overall profit = $12.66

One last trip to CVS

• 4 Nature's Bounty Vitamins $4.99 each, used four $5 coupons (fourth was adjusted down to $4.96) = $9.88 profit
• 2 Doritos $3.99 each - will use for third Heineken rebate at DBF's address
• CVS envelopes $2.99
• Diet Coke - small bottle $1.69
• Total was $3.01

Today at Walgreens - bought 20 free Bayer coupons on ebay for $73.99. Once I redeem them all, I'll have $200 in RR's, so $126 profit. I'm already thinking of how I can spend them. :)

• Bayer Contour or Breeze 2 Blood Glucose Monitor $19.99, used FREE coupon (10/25/09 RP) and got back $10 RR = $10 profit - bought a second one separately

A Duck, A Mouse and Two Cats Walk Into a Bar...

These are the faces of happy kitties. Kitties whose mama just bought them some stupendous catnip toys that they are head over heels for. Toys that make them scamper with delight, pounce with excitement and purr in kitty purfection. But before we get to that...

...a quick ShopRite trip:

• 2 Scrubbing Bubbles Extend A Clean Starter Kit $7.99 each
• 2 Scrubbing Bubbles Power Sprayer Refills $3.49 each
• Used two $5 starter kit coupons (4/11 SS) and two FREE refill coupons (WYB starter kits)
• Total was $8.10, got back two $1 cats, two $3 cats and $4 cat, overall profit = $3.90

Now back to the toys. I picked up a ducky little duck, which you can see clenched between Gigi's talons. I also got a bright blue mouse toy, which she was just as thrilled with.

I know its a cat thing, but I love watching my furbabies rub their heads all over catnip toys. Why do they do that anyway?Mousse got in on the fun too, but he wasn't as graceful about it. Oh dear, look at that snaggle-tooth!

GIGI! Where did my little lady go? Goodness, I can't take you two anywhere!

4/25 - 5/1

As always, my deals all come from the wonderful folks at HCW, Slick Deals and Erica at iheartcvs.com, iheartriteaid.com and iheartwags.com.

Staples

• Duracell Batteries AA or AAA (20 count) $12.99?, get back full price in Staples Rewards (Limit 2) = FREE

CVS - stole some deals from Jamie, thanks!

• Oral B 3D White Toothbrush $2.99, buy two, use BOGO coupon (3/7 P&G) and $2 coupon (4/4 P&G) and get back $2 EB ($1 EB for each, Limit 2) = $1.01 profit *YMMV using these coupons on this particular brush
• Kodak Picture Movie $14.99, BOGO sale and use BOGO coupon = two for FREE
• Softsoap or Irish Spring Body Wash $2.99, use $1 CVS coupon for either (Reinventing Beauty Magazine) and get back $2 EB (Limit 8) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• CVS 4 x 6 photo magnet (Exp. 4/28) = FREE
• CVS brand loofahs $1 each - good price for these, they're nice quality

Rite Aid - $5 off $20 available here. This week starts the May SCR's, so if your April rebates are cleared, go ahead and request your moolah!

• Sunday ONLY: Dove Sham/Cond $3, buy two and use two $1.50 coupons (expire 4/25! 3/28 RP) and get back $3 (SCR #?) = FREE
• Stayfree Pads $1.99, use $2 coupon (3/28 SS) = FREE
• Biore Strips & Cleansers $7.99 each, sale is buy the strips, get the cleanser FREE, there's a coupon for the same thing available (3/7 SS, buy strips, get FREE cleanser). So buy one strips and two cleansers, get both cleansers FREE (one via sale, one via coupon) and look for peelie coupons on the strips as well.

Walgreens

• Bayer Contour or Breeze 2 Blood Glucose Monitor $19.99, use FREE coupon (10/25/09 RP *Expires 4/30/10 - I found some on ebay) or $10 coupon (4/25 RP) and get back $10 RR = $10 profit or FREE/$0.01 profit
• Schick Quattro Titanium Disposable Razors (3 count) $5.99, use $4 coupon (3/21 SS) and get back $1 RR and $3 RR (RR glitch - might get fixed soon) = $2.01 profit
• Stayfree Maxi Pads $2.99, use $2 coupon (3/28 RP) and get back $3 RR = $2.01 profit
• Hallmark Cards - buy 8, get back $5 RR. Some stores carry "kid" cards (smaller size, usually found by themselves on a lower shelf) for $0.49 each, so $1.08 profit
• Plackers Dental Flossers $2, use $0.50 coupon (4/18 RP) and get back $2 RR = $0.50 profit
• Benadryl Allergey (20 - 24 ct), Sudafed PE (18 or 24 ct), Sudafed Nasal Mist (0.5 oz), Sudafed Liquid (4 oz), Tylenol (20 - 24 ct) or Tylenol Liquid (4 or 8 oz) $4.99, buy two and use $5 off 2 coupon (4/11 RP) and get back $5 RR (WYB 2, monthly deal) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Scotch Packaging Tape $0.99 with in-circular coupon (give second), use $1 coupon = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Clio Beautytrim Personal Hair Trimmer $4.99, get back $5 RR = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Skintimate Shave Cream $2.99, get back $3 RR = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Tone Body Wash $3.99, use $1 coupon and get back $3 RR = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Pepsi 12-packs three for $11, get back $3 RR (WYB 3) = $2.66 each

Printable Rebate Offers

• Aveeno Ageless Vitality Elasticity Recharging System Product $10 rebate and $5 coupon Exp. 5/31/10
• Brawny Paper Towels Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 60 days after purchase
• Caregiver's Marketplace - many rebates for a variety of items
• Clorox Toiletwand System $5 rebate Exp. 2/1/11 $5 coupon available
• Dawn Plus Vinger Alternative Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 3/14/11
• Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotics available at kiosks in certain locations $10 rebate Exp. 4/30/10
• Feline Pine Scoop Kitty Litter (3.8 - 4.1 lb box) TMF Exp. 6/30/10
• Greenworks Laundry Detergent Satisfaction Guarantee
• Hershey's Kisses, Reese's PB Cup Miniatures, Hershey's Miniatures Chocolate Bars or York Peppermint Patties - buy four and recieve one Fandango Promo Code good for one movie ticket valid up to $12 Exp. 6/30/10
• Hill's Science Diet Pet Foods 3 Bag Challenge - get $5 and coupons
• Just for Men Touch of Gray Haircolor TMF up to $9.50 Exp. 12/31/2010 *This rebate appears to be once per lifetime (pooey on you Just for Men!)
• Kellogg's Bonus Bucks - buy three specially marked cereals, enter codes from box online and get $10 Bonus Buck certificate via mail. No limit on how many you can redeem. Exp. 9/30/10
• Land o Lakes Butter with Olive Oil - buy ICBINB or Smart Balance, send in UPC and receipt and get coupon for free LOL Exp. 5/31/10
• Laughing Cow Spreadable Cheese Wedges Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 5/2/10 (Click on "Great Taste Guarantee" bottom right of screen)
• Method Laundry Detergent with Smart Clean Technology Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 6/30/10 $2 coupon available here or $4 coupon here
• Neutrogena Clinical Products up to $15 Exp. 4/31/10 $5 coupon available too (or in March All You magazine)
• Olay Facial Moisturizers, Facial Treatments and/or Facial Cleansers - spend $50, get back $20 Exp. 5/9/10
• Oxy-Strength Pet Odor & Stain Eliminator $1.50 rebate Exp. 12/31/10
• Pantene ProV Satisfaction Guarantee - 2x your purchase price (up to $12) Exp. 12/30/2010
• Physician's Formula Bamboo Wear Compact, Mirror & Brush Exp. 12/31/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from the package to qualify
• Physician's Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Eye Enhancing Mascara Duo $10.95 rebate Exp. 12/31/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from package to qualify
• Physician's Formula Organic Wear Makeup Removers $5 rebate Exp. 4/30/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from package to qualify
• Roc Brilliance Product $20 rebate Exp. 6/30/10 $3 coupon also available on same link
• NEW LINK! SC Johnson - Buy three, get back $5 (Limit 3 rebates per household) Exp. 6/30/10 ***Although you can do this rebate three times, each $5 rebate has to be mailed separately (yuck). Be careful how you purchase your items so you have enough receipts.
• Swiffer Refills - buy $20, get back $10 prepaid rewards card Exp. 6/30/10
• World's Best Cat Litter TMF up to $12.99 Exp. 12/31/10

Finishing Yesterday's Deal

CVS - finished off yesterday's deal on my card:

• Olay Total Effects Moisturizer $18.99 and Olay Total Effects face wash $9.99, used FREE face wash coupon (WYB moisturizer, 3/28 SS) and $3 coupon (3/7 P&G) = $15.99 and got back $10 EB (WYB $24.99 worth of qualifying items)
• 2 Nature's Bounty Zinc Vitamins $5.79 each, BOGO sale, used two $5 coupons = $4.21 profit
• Total was $13.81

Now I have enough items to send away for the $20 Olay rebate (WYB $50 worth). I spent $14.35 total, got back $10 EB and will send away for the $20 rebate = $15.65 profit

CVS - DBF's card

• 2 Olay Total Effects Moisturizers $18.99 each and 2 Olay Total Effects face washes $7.99 each, used two FREE face wash coupons (WYB moisturizer, 3/28 SS *Cashier took off $18.99 for one of the coupons! woot!) and two $3 coupons (3/7 P&G) = $20.98 and got back $10 EB (WYB $24.99 worth of qualifying items) = $10.98 OOP
• 4 Nature's Bounty Zinc & Potassium Vitamins $5.79 and $4.99 each, BOGO sale, used four $5 coupons = $9.22 profit
• Used $5 off $40 CRT, $0.50 EB, $4 EB and $4.50 EB, total was $1.22

I'll submit for a second $20 rebate at DBF's address. Since my cashier entered in a higher price for the coupon and I was able to find cheaper vitamins at this store, this transaction was a slightly higher profit for me = $16.76 profit

Rite Aid

• U by Kotex Pads (14-18 ct), Pantiliners (50-60 ct) or Tampons (18 ct) $3.49, used $1 coupon (or 4/18 SS or April All You magazine) and will get back $3.49 SCR (#36) = $1 profit
• Total was $2.49 - paid with gift card from previous rebate

Can't Get Enough of Rebates!

Rite Aid

• U by Kotex Pads (14-18 ct), Pantiliners (50-60 ct) or Tampons (18 ct) $3.49, used $1 coupon (or 4/18 SS or April All You magazine) and will get back $3.49 SCR (#36) = $1 profit
• Total was $2.49 - paid with gift card from previous rebate

CVS - first store

• Olay Total Effects Moisturizer $18.99 and Olay Total Effects face wash $9.99, used FREE face wash coupon (WYB moisturizer, 3/28 SS) and $3 coupon (3/7 P&G) = $15.99

I was expecting to get back $10 EB for spending $24.99 but the face washes aren't included in the sale (although they are fine for the Olay rebate). I'm thinking I'll probably do this same transaction again, minus the Thermacare. That would be $10.14 OOP ($15.99 x 2 minus NB overage and $5 off $40 coupon) and I'd get back $10 EB and the $20 rebate= $19.86 profit!

• 4 Nature's Bounty Zinc Vitamins $5.79 each, BOGO sale, used four $5 coupons = $8.42 profit *Bought these to cut into the cost of the Olay
• Thermacare Neck to Arm Heatwrap (one ct) $2.49, got back $2.49 EB (Limit 2) = FREE
• Used $5 off $40 CRT (got this today - good timing, huh?), $1 EB, $4.49 EB, total was $1.32

Then at another store, I picked up this bookshelf on 75% clearance - $3.75Gigi really likes it!
Today was another lowrider day. Sorry about the pic, I keep my old camera in my garage for days like this, when there's NO WAY all this stuff is getting hauled upstairs: WOAH NELLY! You're looking at eight cases of Poland Spring water. Let's break it down:

ShopRite

• 4 cases Poland Spring water $3.99 each, used two $1 off 2 coupons (3/7 RP, expires 4/18) and in-circular coupon to make them three for $10 (fourth was $3.99) = $11.99
• Got back $5 catalina for buying four cases and I'll submit for a $6 NBPR rebate through Natural Light (WYB $10 worth of various items, including water)
• After all that, the four cases of water only cost me $0.99!

Repeated this deal at a second store, but I didn't have another circular coupon (first store kept it, bummer), so my total was $13.96. I used a $0.75 catalina that I got for buying some Philadelphia cream cheese for work, so that's pure profit (I'll get fully reimbursed). Total after catalina was $13.21, got back $5 cat and will submit for a separate $6 rebate, so $2.21 for the second set of four cases. All in all, that's $3.20 for 192 bottles of water, so about a penny each. :)

DBF cooked up some yummy ham steaks for dinner

• 2 Ham Steaks - around $3.30 each
• Borden Singles Sensations $1.99, used $1 coupon = $0.99
• Used $2 catalina (from buying Pillsbury Grands last week), total was $5.62
• I'll submit for a $5 NWPR (no wine purchase required) rebate from Columbia Crest, Chateau Ste. Michelle and Red Diamond for $5 WYB $5 of meat, produce or deli items

Ask me how much I'm loving these NBPR/NWPR rebates! Go on...ask me! I'm loving them THIS MUCH! :)

Another Week, Another Deal 4/18 - 4/24

As always, my deals all come from the wonderful folks at HCW, Slick Deals and Erica at iheartcvs.com, iheartriteaid.com and iheartwags.com.

CVS

• Thermacare Neck to Arm Heatwrap (one ct) $2.49, use $1 coupon (anyone able to get this to print? didn't work for me) and get back $2.49 EB (Limit 2) = $1 profit
• CVS Green Bag Tag $0.99, get back $0.99 EB (Limit 1) = FREE
• Colgate Total Advanced or Enamel Strength Toothpaste $2.99, use $1 coupon (April All You magazine) and get back $2 EB (Limit 1) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Nature's Bounty Vitamins BOGO sale, buy two and use two $5 coupons = FREE or profit
• NYC makeup BOGO sale, use BOGO coupon (March All You magazine) = two for FREE *Could also try to use the $1 coupon from the 4/18 RP for profit
• Nivea Products - buy $15, get back $5 EB (Limit 1). Buy two body washes $4.99 each and two lip care items $2.99 each, use $2 coupon, BOGO body wash coupon and BOGO lip care coupon (May All You magazine) and get back $5 EB = $0.98 for all four
• Hershey's Kisses $3 each, buy four and use two $1 off 2 coupons (4/11 SS) and get back $5 EB (WYB $10, Limit 1) = $5 and send away for movie ticket rebate
• Olay Products - spend $24.99, get back $10 EB (Limit 1). Includes Definity Facial Care, Regenerist or Total Effects Facial Care and Regenerist Kits or Treatments. $20 rebate available when you spend $50 - might be free if you do this deal on two separate cards to get back $20 EB and use the right combo of coupons: buy one total effects moisturizer, get one cleanser free (3/28 SS), $1 cleanser/moisturizer (3/7 P&G, 3/14 RP or 4/4 P&G) or $3 regenerist items (3/7 P&G)

RiteAid - $5 off $20 available here

• U by Kotex Pads (14-18 ct), Pantiliners (50-60 ct) or Tampons (18 ct) $3.49, use $1 coupon (or 4/18 SS or April All You magazine) and get back $3.49 SCR (#36) = $1 profit
• TGIF Potato Skins $1.39, use $1.50 coupon = FREE or overage
• GE Reveal Light Bulbs $3 (4 pack), buy two and use two $1 coupons (3/7 SS), get back $2 (WYB 2, SCR #7) AND $2 (Bonus SCR #207) = FREE

Walgreens - there's a $1 Kotex coupon coming out in Sunday's paper, so more free Kotex!

• Nature's Bounty Vitamin D 1000iu High Potency Tablets (120 count) $5, use $5 coupon and get back $5 RR = $5 profit
• Walgreens reusable bags three for $1 with in-circular coupon

Walgreens Monthly Deal - 4/24

• U by Kotex $3.49, use $1 coupon (or 4/18 SS or April All You magazine) and get back $2.50 RR = FREE/$0.01 profit

General Printable Rebate Offers

• Aveeno Ageless Vitality Elasticity Recharging System Product $10 rebate and $5 coupon Exp. 5/31/10
• Brawny Paper Towels Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 60 days after purchase
• Caregiver's Marketplace - many rebates for a variety of items
• Clorox Toiletwand System $5 rebate Exp. 2/1/11 $5 coupon available
• Dawn Plus Vinger Alternative Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 3/14/11
• Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotics available at kiosks in certain locations $10 rebate Exp. 4/30/10
• Feline Pine Scoop Kitty Litter (3.8 - 4.1 lb box) TMF Exp. 6/30/10
• Greenworks Laundry Detergent Satisfaction Guarantee
• Hershey's Kisses, Reese's PB Cup Miniatures, Hershey's Miniatures Chocolate Bars or York Peppermint Patties - buy four and recieve one Fandango Promo Code good for one movie ticket valid up to $12 Exp. 6/30/10
• Hill's Science Diet Pet Foods 3 Bag Challenge - get $5 and coupons
• Just for Men Touch of Gray Haircolor TMF up to $9.50 Exp. 12/31/2010 *This rebate appears to be once per lifetime (pooey on you Just for Men!)
• Kellogg's Bonus Bucks - buy three specially marked cereals, enter codes from box online and get $10 Bonus Buck certificate via mail. No limit on how many you can redeem. Exp. 9/30/10
• Land o Lakes Butter with Olive Oil - buy ICBINB or Smart Balance, send in UPC and receipt and get coupon for free LOL Exp. 5/31/10
• Laughing Cow Spreadable Cheese Wedges Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 5/2/10 (Click on "Great Taste Guarantee" bottom right of screen)
• Method Laundry Detergent with Smart Clean Technology Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 6/30/10 $2 coupon available here or $4 coupon here
  Neutrogena Clinical Products up to $15 Exp. 4/31/10 $5 coupon available too (or in March All You magazine)
• Olay Facial Moisturizers, Facial Treatments and/or Facial Cleansers - spend $50, get back $20 Exp. 5/9/10
• Oxy-Strength Pet Odor & Stain Eliminator $1.50 rebate Exp. 12/31/10
• Pantene ProV Satisfaction Guarantee - 2x your purchase price (up to $12) Exp. 12/30/2010
• Physician's Formula Bamboo Wear Compact, Mirror & Brush Exp. 12/31/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from the package to qualify
• Physician's Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Eye Enhancing Mascara Duo $10.95 rebate Exp. 12/31/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from package to qualify
• Physician's Formula Organic Wear Makeup Removers $5 rebate Exp. 4/30/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from package to qualify
• Roc Brilliance Product $20 rebate Exp. 6/30/10 $3 coupon also available on same link
• NEW LINK! SC Johnson - Buy three, get back $5 (Limit 3 rebates per household) Exp. 6/30/10 ***Although you can do this rebate three times, each $5 rebate has to be mailed separately (yuck). Be careful how you purchase your items so you have enough receipts.
• Swiffer Refills - buy $20, get back $10 prepaid rewards card Exp. 6/30/10
• World's Best Cat Litter TMF up to $12.99 Exp. 12/31/10

Mini Ouch

When I was a wee lass, I got my ears pierced as a present for my 12th birthday. I used to love wearing earrings, but when I hit high school or maybe college, I got out of the habit of wearing them everyday. Every so often, I made sure to put in a pair to keep the holes open. Well, this past couple years I haven't been so good with remembering to do that. Last weekend, DBF bought me some adorable earrings and when I went to try them on, to my dismay I was only able to put them in about 80% of the way. The backs of my earlobes had closed up -- after 17 years! I figured they were good to go, but apparently not.

I decided that I wanted to get them re-pierced, and I've been totally stressing about it. Would it hurt? What if they missed the hole and I had two holes next to each other? What if they got the angle wrong and the hole was crooked? What if I lost my cool and cried? Sigh, I am such a worrywart. Eager to get it over with so I could move on to worrying about something else, I poked around the mall at lunch today, found a Claire's and got my lobes holed-up again for about $40. I figured I could get this done at a salon but surprisingly, none of the ones I called did piercings. So I had to wade through all the teenie-bopper jewelery in the store and endure the bemused expressions of passersby as I sat in the storefront window getting pierced. I have to wait two months before I can wear the purty earrings DBF bought me, but at least the hard part is over.
I'm glad its done, but I gotta say, I felt like a major tool walking out of the mall with this bag! haha
CVS - my third card, had a $4 EB that was expired. My store takes them within one week, so I wanted to use it up.

• Dove Sham/Cond (12 oz) $4.49, used $1.50 coupon (3/28 RP) and got back $4.49 EB (Limit 1) = $1.50 profit
• Dial Nutriskin Body Wash (16 oz) $5.49, used $1 coupon and got back $4.50 EB (Limit 1) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• CVS cotton balls $1.99 - gotta keep my ears nice & clean!
• Stamps $8.80
• Used $0.50 EB (quarterly spending) and $4 EB, total was $14.43

I had a whole scenario planned out buying the Nature's Bounty vitamins for overage, but they weren't on sale. Did I miss something? I thought they were BOGO this week?

Walgreens

• Schick Hydro Shave Gel (8.4 oz) $2.99, got back $3 RR = FREE/$0.01 profit
• U by Kotex $3.49, use $1 coupon (or April All You magazine) and got back $2.50 RR (monthly deal) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Walgreens bottled water $3.49 - didn't feel like lugging this upstairs. I think it was a 16 or 24 pack - will use this towards a NBPR rebate I'm working on that includes bottled water
• Used $1 RR and $7 RR, total was $1.18

Yes, I Bought More Razors

I love that Target is doing this deal again! DBF goes through razors like you wouldn't believe, so I'm stocking up while the stocking-up's good.
Target

• Physician's Formula Makeup Removers $6.19, used $5 peelie coupon and will submit for $5 rebate (at my parents' address - this rebate expires soon!) = $3.81 profit
• 2 Gilette Fusion Manual Razors $6.99 each, used two $4 coupons (4/4 P&G) and got back $5 Target gift card (WYB 2) = $0.98 or $0.49 each
• Total was $8.23

Then I bought:

• 3 Seventh Generation Wipes $2.99 each, used three $1 coupons or $2 off 2 coupon (don't bother trying to print more than two, it will print out a sheet that says you've reached your limit - what a waste of ink) and three $1 Target coupons (click on Coupons link at bottom of page, I just made several copies of the one that I printed) and will submit for $5 rebate (printable form, no longer available) = $1.61 profit
• 4 Gilette Fusion Manual Razors $6.99 each, used four $4 coupons (4/4 P&G) and got back two $5 Target gift cards (WYB 2) = $1.96 or $0.49 each
• Used $5 Target gift card from transaction one, total was $11.61

Making-Money Monday

Rite Aid - my rebates

• Olay Quench Lotion $7.99, used $1 coupon (4/4 P&G) and will submit for Try Me Free rebate = $1 profit
• AMO Complete Multi-Purpose Solution (12 oz) $7.99, will get back $7.99 (SCR #34) = FREE
• Nivea lip gloss $2.99, will get back $2 (SCR #38) = $0.99
• Motts Applesauce (filler) $1.25
• Used $5 off $20 coupon, total was $14.43, overall profit was $3.55

Rite Aid - DBF's rebates

• Olay Quench Lotion $7.49, used $1 coupon (4/4 P&G) and will submit for Try Me Free rebate = $1 profit *Same size lotion was cheaper at this store, weird!
• AMO Complete Multi-Purpose Solution (12 oz) $7.99, will get back $7.99 (SCR #34) = FREE
• Nivea lip gloss $2.99, will get back $2 (SCR #38) = $0.99
• Ziploc bags (filler) $1.99
• Used $5 off $20 coupon, total was $14.78, overall profit was $2.70

CVS - DBF's card

• 2 Nature's Bounty Vitamins $5.99 each, BOGO sale and used two $5 coupons = $4.01 profit
• Dove Sham/Cond (12 oz) $4.49, used $1.50 coupon (3/28 RP) and got back $4.49 EB (Limit 1) = $1.50 profit
• Dial Nutriskin Body Wash (16 oz) $5.49, used $1 coupon and got back $4.50 EB (Limit 1) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Stamps $8.80
• Used $0.99 EB, $1 EB, $2 EB and $8.99 EB, total was $1.96

CVS - my card

• Dove Sham/Cond (12 oz) $4.49, used $1.50 coupon (3/28 RP) and got back $4.49 EB (Limit 1) = $1.50 profit
• CVS paper towels $1.29, used $1 CRT (finally got this coupon) = $0.29
• Used $0.99 EB and $1 EB, total was $1.50, got back $1 EB for using my green bag tag

ShopRite

• Fresh Express salad $2.49, used $1 coupon (found in store) = $1.49
• Strawberries $1.49
• Empire Apples $0.99/lb = $1.83

*I will use these items towards a $6 Natural Light NBPR rebate (WYB $10 worth of many items, including produce)

• 4 Grands biscuits $0.99 each, used two $0.30 off 2 coupons (3/28 SS) and got back $2 catalina for buying 4 Pillsbury items = $0.76 or $0.19 each
• 10 Dannon yogurts $4.40 - I know there are coupons out for this but I forgot to bring any with me
• Gallon of milk $2.59
• 2 McCain fries $2 each, used $1 off 2 coupon (2/28 SS) = $3 or $1.50 each
• Total was $17.46

Its a Dog's Life

Let me tell you a story about a certain young puppy who likes to eat inappropriate things. Socks, napkins, dryer lint, it doesn't much matter. As long as it can fit into his mouth, in it goes. Last night, said puppy knocked off a prescription bottle from my mom's dresser, broke off the lid and downed 25 pills. My sister discovered him mid-overdose, rushed him to the emergency vet where they finally found something he wasn't thrilled to eat - a big old dose of charcoal. He spent the night at the vet, purging the drugs out of his system and emerged this morning a changed pup. Well, for all of five minutes or so. I'm sure he'll be back to eating dust bunnies by the end of the day. Notice the shaved spot on his leg from the IV? Sigh, this dog is quite the handful.

Shadow decided she should take young Riley out for a date at the doggie park and try and talk some sense into him. The intervention was going splendidly until this punk showed up.

Here comes trouble!

"Riley? Hey Riley! I wasn't done talking to you!"

"Yo Riley! Quit yelling at that dog and pay attention to me! I have some sage advice to share with you!"

"Oh whatever"

"You can lead a dog to kibble, but you cannot make him eat."

The park was hopping today. Don't you love the coloring on this bulldog?

Say hello to Mister Crazy Eyes! This little guy was all over everyone.

Give me back that filet of fish, give me that fish!

(snort) DBF, my sister's friend and I were cracking up as my sister battled with the punk dog to get back Riley's toy.

Riley doesn't mind sharing with other dogs. In fact, he's quite generous with one thing in particular.

You guessed it - drool. I wish he wasn't. Really. I don't much like wearing spit-soaked jeans.
Happy spring everyone! Hope you're enjoying the gorgeous weather as much as the dogs did.

Target was Nice Tonight

Saw this deal on both Queen's blog and Price Prowler's blog - thanks ladies!

Target

• 3 Seventh Generation Spray Cleansers $2.99 each, used three $1 coupons or $2 off 2 coupon (don't bother trying to print more than two, it will print out a sheet that says you've reached your limit - what a waste of ink) and three $1 Target coupons (click on Coupons link at bottom of page, I just made several copies of the one that I printed) = $3.39 with tax
• Will submit for $5 rebate = $1.61 profit

Repeated transaction to do the rebate in DBF's name. I'm going to try again tomorrow to do the rebate at my parents' address. I got a wonderful cashier tonight who had no problem with all my coupons. We'll see how my luck holds up tomorrow. I'm pretty sure the $2.99 is a regular price, so I'm not too worried about getting this done immediately.

One of the bottles leaked and is currently air drying in my kitchen sink. It has a weird dentist-office/mouthwash smell to it. I couldn't figure out where the smell was coming from until I set up the bottles for the picture.

So Cute

I cannot get over how adorable Gigi looks when she snuggles with this toy. She uses it as a pillow all the time. She was never too big on cat toys, but when she finds one she likes, man does she like it!

A&P

• 4 Reese's PB Cups Miniatures (11 ounce size! got the right one this time) $1.85 each, will submit for free movie ticket rebate (valid up to $12) at my parents' address
• Total was $8.09

I don't mind that its recalled, could you sell it to me anyway?

Walgreens - bought the OJ separately because I had worked up a scenario to buy the Visine All Day Eye Itch Relief and submit for the TMF rebate. However, the Visine beeped and wouldn't ring up - apparently there is a recall on this item? Anyone heard of this? I've been looking for the Visine all week and I guess this explains why I wasn't able to find it! Is it weird that I wished they could sell it to me anyway so I could make a $2 profit on the rebate and then just toss the stuff? haha

• 3 Pilot Erasable Frixion Gel Pens (2 pk) or highlighters (3 pk) $1.19 each, used $1 WAG coupon (monthly coupon booklet, will take off $3 automatically) and will submit for $4.50 rebate at parents' address (WYB 3, on back of package) = $3.93 profit
• U by Kotex $3.49, used $1 coupon (or April All You magazine) and got back $2.50 RR (monthly deal) = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Used $1 RR, total was $2.31

Then I bought:

• Tropicana OJ two for $6, used BOGO coupon (prints today only!) and got back $1 RR = $2 or $1 each
• Used $2.50 RR, total was $0.50

Rite Aid

• Olay Quench Lotion $7.49, used $1 coupon (4/4 P&G) and submit for Try Me Free = $1 profit
• Crest Pro Health Toothpaste (4.2 oz) $2.29, used $1.50 coupon (3/21 RP) and will get back $1.50 (SCR) = $0.71 profit
• Gillette Fusion Power or Manual Razor $8, used $4 coupon (4/4 P&G) and will get back $4 (SCR #43) = FREE
• Act II Popcorn $2.29
• Used $5 off $20 coupon, total was $9.47

Slow Week 4/11 - 4/17

As always, my deals all come from the wonderful folks at HCW, Slick Deals and Erica at iheartcvs.com, iheartriteaid.com and iheartwags.com.

CVS

• Dove Sham/Cond (12 oz) $4.49, use $1.50 coupon (3/28 RP) and get back $4.49 EB (Limit 1) = $1.50 profit
• Dial Nutriskin Body Wash (16 oz) $5.49, use $1 coupon and get back $4.50 EB (Limit 1) = FREE/$0.01 profit

Rite Aid - $5 off $20 available here

• AMO Complete Multi-Purpose Solution (12 oz) $7.99, get back $7.99 (SCR #34) = FREE
• Crest 3D White Vivid Toothpaste $2.99, use $1 coupon (4/4 P&G) and get back $2 (SCR #59) = FREE/$0.01 profit

Walgreens

• Schick Hydro Shave Gel (8.4 oz) $2.99, get back $3 RR = FREE/$0.01 profit
• Snuggle Fabric Softener (80 sheets or 32 load) $3.99, use $3 coupon (3/28 RP) = $0.99

Walgreens Monthly Deal - 4/24

• U by Kotex $3.49, use $1 coupon (or 4/18 SS or April All You magazine) and get back $2.50 RR = FREE/$0.01 profit

General Printable Rebate Offers - be sure to buy your Olay lotion, that rebate expires this week. I almost forgot about it myself!

• Aveeno Ageless Vitality Elasticity Recharging System Product $10 rebate and $5 coupon Exp. 5/31/10
• Brawny Paper Towels Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 60 days after purchase
• Brawny, Quilted Northern, Vanity Fair or Dixie Products - spend $20, get back $5 Exp. 4/18/10
• Caregiver's Marketplace - many rebates for a variety of items
• Clorox Toiletwand System $5 rebate Exp. 2/1/11 $5 coupon available
• Dawn Plus Vinger Alternative Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 3/14/11
• Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotics available at kiosks in certain locations $10 rebate Exp. 4/30/10
• Feline Pine Scoop Kitty Litter (3.8 - 4.1 lb box) TMF Exp. 6/30/10
• Greenworks Laundry Detergent Satisfaction Guarantee
• Hershey's Kisses, Reese's PB Cup Miniatures, Hershey's Miniatures Chocolate Bars or York Peppermint Patties - buy four and recieve one Fandango Promo Code good for one movie ticket valid up to $12 Exp. 6/30/10
• Hill's Science Diet Pet Foods 3 Bag Challenge - get $5 and coupons
• Just for Men Touch of Gray Haircolor TMF up to $9.50 Exp. 12/31/2010 *This rebate appears to be once per lifetime (pooey on you Just for Men!)
• Kellogg's Bonus Bucks - buy three specially marked cereals, enter codes from box online and get $10 Bonus Buck certificate via mail. No limit on how many you can redeem. Exp. 9/30/10
• Land o Lakes Butter with Olive Oil - buy ICBINB or Smart Balance, send in UPC and receipt and get coupon for free LOL Exp. 5/31/10
• Laughing Cow Spreadable Cheese Wedges Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 5/2/10 (Click on "Great Taste Guarantee" bottom right of screen)
• Method Laundry Detergent with Smart Clean Technology Satisfaction Guarantee Exp. 6/30/10 $2 coupon available here or $4 coupon here
• Neutrogena Clinical Products up to $15 Exp. 4/31/10 $5 coupon available too (or in March All You magazine)
• Olay Quench Lotion (again!) Try Me Free Exp. 4/16/10
• Olay Facial Moisturizers, Facial Treatments and/or Facial Cleansers - spend $50, get back $20 Exp. 5/9/10
• Oxy-Strength Pet Odor & Stain Eliminator $1.50 rebate Exp. 12/31/10
• Pantene ProV Satisfaction Guarantee - 2x your purchase price (up to $12) Exp. 12/30/2010
• P&G $100 Coupon Booklet WYB $50 worth of P&G items Exp. 4/15/10
• Physician's Formula Bamboo Wear Compact, Mirror & Brush Exp. 12/31/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from the package to qualify
• Physician's Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Eye Enhancing Mascara Duo $10.95 rebate Exp. 12/31/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from package to qualify
• Physician's Formula Organic Wear Makeup Removers $5 rebate Exp. 4/30/10 *Have to include Try Me Free sticker from package to qualify
• Roc Brilliance Product $20 rebate Exp. 6/30/10 $3 coupon also available on same link
• NEW LINK! SC Johnson - Buy three, get back $5 (Limit 3 rebates per household) Exp. 6/30/10 ***Although you can do this rebate three times, each $5 rebate has to be mailed separately (yuck). Be careful how you purchase your items so you have enough receipts.
• Swiffer Refills - buy $20, get back $10 prepaid rewards card Exp. 6/30/10
• World's Best Cat Litter TMF up to $12.99 Exp. 12/31/10

What's Red, Shiny and Clean?

My new car, that's what!

This morning I was here...

And now I'm here, what a difference! My new car has all sorts of fancy features, like this awesome button marked AC. Guess what happens when you press it? Cold air comes blowing out of the vents! What a wonderful surprise! And if you play a CD and press the eject button, the CD actually comes out of the CD player. I know, I know! And to top it all off, when you are done driving and want to exit your vehicle, you only have to press the seat belt button once to release the belt. No wiggling the button, pushing it down from a different angle or yanking on the belt required. Cars these days, fancy shmancy I tell you.

With 140,000+ miles on my last car and some looming (and expensive) car repairs on the horizon, I decided it was time for a new set of wheels. DBF and I went car shopping over the weekend and I test drove a Nissan Sentra and a Toyota Corolla. The Nissan was surprisingly roomy and I loved the way it drove, but the price just wasn't right. I felt like I was going to hit my head on the roof of the Corolla and wasn't crazy about the way it drove, so I decided to go for Honda Civic #2. I got the same model that I had before, but its got a couple of new perks that I love. Its got automatic up as well as automatic down on the driver side window, a USB port for my iPod and I can set the volume on the speakers to adjust up or down depending on how fast I'm going. And you gotta love the color!

I went for a five year loan at 1.9%, so my payments are around $240 a month. I'll have to increase the insurance coverage since I'm financing the car, but the difference isn't all that much. When I paid off my previous car last year, I moved that amount of money into savings each month, so I don't have to juggle anything to be able to make the car payments. It was really nice to have no car payments, but it didn't make sense to keep throwing money into my car and there was no way I was going through a hot, muggy NJ summer without air conditioning. Its April 6 and its 75 degrees here already!

I did squeeze in some shopping today too:

Rite Aid

• Crest Pro Health Toothpaste (4.2 oz) $2.29, use $1.50 coupon (3/21 RP) and get back $1.50 (SCR) = $0.71 profit
• Gillette Fusion Power or Manual Razor $8, use $4 coupon (4/4 P&G) and get back $4 (SCR #43) = FREE
• Drano Max $5.99 - there's a satisfaction guarantee on this if it doesn't work well
• 2 Rite Aid freezer bags $2.99 each, BOGO sale = $1.49 each
• 3 Musketeers Raspberry flavored $2.19 - 50% off clearance price, DBF and I have been looking for these for a couple weeks so I had to snag a bag when I saw them in the store. Forgot to put them in the pic
• Used $5 off $20 coupon, total was $10.68

Kmart - went here after picking up my car. I couldn't wait to get back in and drive around some more, so of course this took foreeeeevvvvvveeeeeerrrrrrr!

• Physician's Formula Shimmer Strips Mascara Duo $10.49, used $4 peelie coupon and will submit for Try Me Free rebate = $4 profit
• 4 Tidy Cats Breeze litter pads $5.29 each (these were marked $4.99 in the aisle, grr), used four $1 coupons - doubled to $2 each (2/7 RP) = $3.29 each
• Tidy Cats Breeze litter pellets $6.99, used $1 coupon - doubled to $2 (2/7 RP) = $4.99
• 2 Wylers drink mixes $1 each - got these thinking my total would be too low to use both gift cards, but it turns out I didn't need them
• Used two $10 gift cards (from Hershey's promo), total was $8.99

This was new - I had to sign up for a Kmart rewards card to get the coupons to double. Of course I didn't realize this until we were halfway through my transaction. Since Kmart is incapable of having more than two registers open at once, the huge line of people behind me glared as the cashier had to void the order, sign me up for the stupid card and rering everything. Ugh! At least I used up both gift cards and don't have to go back to Kmart any time soon.