PYP Blog

Best Deal Magazines Deal of the Day LINK
Every Day With Rachael Ray
Term:1 Yr 10 Issues
Publisher's Price: $24.00
Consumer Pays: $4.29
82% Savings Off Publisher's Price


*$3.65 after code: PINCHPENNIES15


LINK TO OFFER


"Everyday with Rachael Ray brings you the most charming, down-to-earth, real-life cook in America - Rachael Ray. Each issue features 30-Minute Meals, Rachael's Diary, Big Bashes - Small Get Togethers, Stolen Weekends, Real Cooks Networks, Quick Hits, Every Day Menu Planner and No Recipe Zone. Everyday with Rachael Ray brings you smart entertaining, delicious food and spur of the moment travel plus so much more. A great magazine!"


This is not auto-renewal.

Coppertone sunscreen, all varieties $5.00

Purchase: 2 bottles of Coppertone sunscreen
Use 2 $1/1 printables from THIS LINK or THIS LINK.
Total: $8.00

At checkout, a coupon for $5 off you next Coppertone purchase will print. So go back through checkout and get a third bottle for FREE! (You will stay pay the tax.)

Final price: $8.00 for 3 bottles! $5 sale price ends 6/1, so hurry!

If you don't have a Smith's store near you, check your local Kroger store to see if they have this sale going. Kroger stores often have many of the same sales across the country.

Here is a simple recipe that we love. I really like the versatility with homemade granola bars. You can add in anything you want to make it just perfect. I made this batch this morning and it made a great mid afternoon snack.


5 cups quick oats
1 cup coconut
1 cup almonds, chopped (I like them chopped small)
1 cup dry milk
1 cup honey
1/2 cup oil
1 tsp. salt
1-2 tsp. vanilla extract

Then decide what you want in your granola bar. Some good things to add are:
mini m&m's, raisins, chocolate chips, craisins, small apple chips, sunflower seeds, etc. Add as much as you want to the recipe.

Mix all ingredients together well. I like to use my hands to get it all mixed up really well. Then press into a large cookie sheet and bake at 300 degrees for 30 minutes for chewy bars, 45 minutes for crunchy bars. Cut into bar shape while still warm and let cool in the cookie sheet for a few hours. When they are cool, cut and store them in an airtight container. Makes approximately 44 granola bars.

Newegg.com LINK
Photoshop Elements 8 + Premier Elements 8
Original Price: $129.99
You Save: $35.00
$94.99
*$64.99 after $30.00 Mail-In Rebate
+Free Shipping

Rebate information HERE.

System Requirements: Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2, Windows Media Center, Windows Vista, or Windows 7

One per customer. While supplies last.

If you are new to shopping at Rite Aid, check out my Navigating Rite Aid posts to help you along you way! Remember, you can use a Rite Aid in-ad manufacturer coupon with a manufacturer coupon from the newspaper or online. Read the Rite Aid coupon policy HERE.

Also, this list was made with the Idaho ad. Please verify prices in your area before shopping.I am only listing best deals at Rite Aid this week here. If you want to see the complete list or sale items this week, head on over to the PYP Rite Aid forum thread. You will also find helpful discussion on this weeks sale items.

Additionally, you can use this $5/$20 coupon from Rite Aid Video Values to save you more this week!

AND....if you have not signed up for the Wellness Program yet at Rite Aid, when you do you can print a $5/$25 coupon to use on your next shopping trip.Huggies Jumbo Pack diapers $8.99
Use $3/1 printable coupon
Get a $2 SCR
Final Price: $3.99 after coupon and rebate!

Stayfree Maxi or Carefree pantyliner $1.99
Use Stayfree product, any $1/1 (6-30-10) SS-4/25 OR
Carefree Product, Any $1/1 (6-30-10) SS-4/25
Final Price: $.99 cents after coupons!

Coppertone Sun Care Products $8.99
Use $3/1 Video Values coupon
Final Price: $5.99 after coupon!

Check out the great sale at Savers on Memorial Day. Clothes, shoes, accessories and more are 50% off. Donate to Savers and you get a 10% off coupon that can be used in conjunction with their sales! Savers supports non-profit charities across the US, Cananda and Australia.

I love freezer jam! Especially strawberry freezer jam. A few years ago I discovered a much easier way to make freezer jam instead of using box pectin that you have to cook. It's these pectin packets from Ball...no cook freezer jam pectin. I can literally make freezer jam in 15 minutes. Seriously people...this is the way to go!

I also love using this method because it takes much less sugar. It's only 1 1/2 cups of sugar per pectin packet. And it still tastes really good.

First, crush your fruit. Don't puree it, however or your jam will be runny. I like mine slightly chunky. For one packet of the freezer jam pectin, you will need 4 cups of crushed fruit. Also, you will need 1 1/2 cups of sugar and jars or containers for your jam. Notice my jars...they are recycled jars I have used over and over again for my freezer jam. I think it's a waste of money to buy those pretty jam containers in the store (unless you are giving them as gifts) so I use any empty jar I can find at home, a dressing jar, jelly jar, you name it. It's one more way to pinch those pennies.

Then you mix your sugar and pectin together. (all these are the directions on the back of the pectin package, by the way.)


Put with your crushed fruit and stir for 3 minutes.

After stirring it will look like this. A little more runny. That's why you don't want to completely puree your fruit to begin with. Now you are ready to put the jam into your jars or containers.


After putting into the jam into the jars, let stand until jelled, for about 30 minutes. DONE! Label and put into your freezer. Easy and so yummy!

What is your favorite kind of freezer jam?

Power Hours ~ Valid online from Friday, May 28th 2pm (CDT) through Saturday, May 29th 3pm (CDT)

Women's
~ 50-60% Off Selected Croft & Barrow® and SONOMA life + style® Apparel
~ 50-60% Off Selected Apt. 9®, AB Studio & daisy fuentes® Updated Apparel
~ 50-60% Off Selected Chaps, Dana Buchman & Sag Harbor Classic Apparel
~ 50-60% Off Selected Apparel for Plus-Sized Women
~ 50-55% Off Entire Stock Levi's®, Lee®, Gloria Vanderbilt® & Dockers® Bermudas, Shorts & Capris
~ 40-50% Off Selected Athletic Apparel

Juniors'
~ 50-60% Off Selected Tops
~ SALE $14.99 Entire Stock Angels, Unionbay® & Bongo® Shorts orig. $28
~ 50-55% Off Selected Dresses

Intimates
~ 50-60% Off Selected Sleepwear, Loungewear & Robes
~ 40-50% Off Selected Bras
~ 40-55% Off Selected Panties

Swim
~ 50-55% Off Entire Stock Swimwear for Women & Juniors
~ 50-60% Off Entire Stock Swim Trunks & Board Shorts for Men
~ 55% Off Selected SO® & SONOMA life + style® Flip-Flops for Her
~ 50-60% Off Selected Swimwear for Kids

Handbags & Accessories
~ 50-60% Off Selected Handbags
~ 60% Off Selected Fashion Accessories
~ 50-60% Off Selected Sunglasses for Her

Shoes
~ 50-60% Off Selected Dress & Casual Sandals for the Family
~ 30-50% Off Selected Athletic Sandals for the Family
~ 33-50% Off Selected Athletic Shoes
~ 33-45% Off Selected Athletic Shoes for Kids

Men's
~ SALE $18.99 Selected Arrow Dress Shirts orig./reg. $38
~ 55% Off Selected Chaps, axcess & Haggar® Suit Separates & Sport Coats
~ 50-60% Off Selected Shorts
~ 60% Off Selected Croft & Barrow® and SONOMA life + style® Shirts
~ 50-60% Off Selected Casual Button-Front Shirts
~ 50%  Off Entire Stock Arrow Ties
~ 45% Off Selected Hang Ten & Tony Hawk® Apparel for Young Men
~ 45-55% Off Entire Stock Axist™, Croft & Barrow® and SONOMA life + style® Dress and Casual Pants
~ 60% Off Entire Stock Grand Slam® Golf Apparel
~ 25-50% Off Selected Athletic Apparel

Kids'
~ 55-60% Off Selected SO®, Jumping Beans® & SONOMA life + style® Apparel
~ 60% Off Selected Dresses
~ 45% Off Selected Tony Hawk® & Hang Ten Apparel for Boys 8-20
~ 50% Off Selected Playwear

Jewelry & Watches
~ EXTRA 15% Off Selected Diamond & Gemstone Jewelry Already 55-60% Off
~ EXTRA 15% Off Selected Sterling Silver Jewelry Already 55-60% Off
~ 35-50% Off Entire Stock Fashion Jewelry
~ 30-40% Off Selected Watches

Bed & Bath
~ 40-60% Off Selected Bedding Collections
~ 50-60% Off Selected Beach Towels
~ 55-65% Off Selected Sheet Sets
~ 50-60% Off Selected Bath Towels & Rugs

Kitchen & Dining
~ EXTRA 10% Off Selected Kitchen Electrics Already 15-30% Off
~ 50-60% Off Selected Dinnerware, Drinkware & Flatware
~ 40-50% Off Selected Farberware® Classic Series™ Cookware

Furniture &Decor
~ 55-60% Off Entire Stock SONOMA outdoors™ Furniture & Decorative Accents
~ 50% Off Selected Accent & Area Rugs
~ 55% Off Selected Frames
~ SALE $107.99 Algoma Hammock Set orig. $239.99
~ 55% Off Selected Candles, Decorative Accents & Reed Diffusers
~ SALE $107.98 Selected Maccabee Sports® 2-pc. Antigravity Chair Sets orig. $239.99

Luggage
~ 55-65% Off Selected Luggage

Home Electrics
~ 15-25% Off Selected Floor Care
~ SALE $69.99 Vivitar® 10.1 MP Digital Camera reg. $129.99
~ EXTRA 10% Off Selected Kitchen Electrics Already 15-30% Off

Toys & Games
~ SALE $249.99 Banzai™ Double Cannon Blast Waterslide orig. $499.99. Plus, receive a $50 mail-in rebate.
~ 50% Off Selected Seasonal Toys

Kohls.com LINK

SOLD OUT NOW Banzai™ Double Cannon Blast Waterslide
original $499.99
now $249.99
- 20% off code
= $199.99 shipped after codes
+ add a small filler and make subtotal over $200 to get $40 in Kohls Cash
- $50 mail-in rebate -- limit 2 per household.
*$149.99 after rebate + $40 Kohls Cash (if add small filler)


*Currently on Rollback at Walmart for $299!

Codes: *Can stack both % off and Shipping code*
20% off entire order TWENTYMAY - exp 5/28
Free Shipping on $100 or more SHIPPING100
**No Kohls charge required to use these codes!

The good old Sunday newspaper. The Sunday newspaper is probably the best place to get coupons. The SmartSource inserts and Proctor & Gamble Brand Saver inserts are found in the Sunday newspapers. The P&G insert comes typically the 1st week of the month.

Before subscribing to the paper you should check out all the papers that are available in your area and that have the coupon inserts. See who has the best deal for receiving a few copies of the Sunday paper.

Why should I get more than one copy of the paper? So you can have more than one of each coupon. To build a good stockpile or for food storage purposes you really need to have more than one set of inserts. I get 5 copies of the Sunday paper delivered to my house.

Some weeks have better coupons than others. When it’s good it’s good! It’s almost like gold! These are the weeks when I am especially grateful for my multiple copies!

Another option is getting one copy delivered to your house and then if there are good coupons you can run to the store to buy more newspapers. This option works - but it isn’t always convenient because you may have to drive around to several locations to find them.

Trade with someone from another state. Coupons offered in one area may not be offered in another state. If you have a friend that lives in another state maybe you can work out a deal to trade inserts from time to time.

Ask your neighbors, co-workers, family members. If you know that your neighbors get the newspaper ask them if they use the coupons. Can you believe that some people don’t? CRAZY! Anyway, I bet they will give you’re their coupons!

Keep your eye open in public places, people may leave their papers that they are done with
and your can find inserts there. Pinching Your Pennies does not condone stealing!

Pinching Your Pennies has a Trading Post where people can trade coupons. Make sure to read to rules because we don’t allow selling of coupons.

$10 off your Blu-ray Combo Pack with printable coupon.  Great Value! Combo pack includes Blu-ray, DVD, and digital copy.

Print your coupon at THIS LINK.

*Available and good in the U.S.A.,  its territories and Canada only.  Limit two printed coupons per computer.  Void where prohibited, taxed or restriced by law.  Coupon expires 6/15/10.  Coupon available through 6/14/10.  While supplies last.  See coupon for complete details.

Check out these great Rollbacks at your local Wal-Mart store:

(Prices may vary by location)

• Lay's XXL Chips 10.5-11 oz.  Was $2.98,  Now $1.78
• Red Baron Frozen Pizza 20 oz. Was $3.33, Now $2.88
• Great Value apple juice 96 oz. Was $2.00, Now $1.50
• Soft drinks - Coke, Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, etc. 24 pack Was $6.98, Now $5.00
• Kraft mayonnaise or Miracle Whip 30 oz. Was $2.98,  Now $1.97
• Hidden Valley Ranch salad dressing 24 oz.  Was $3.56, Now $2.50
• Sweet Baby Rays BBQ sauce 40 oz.  Was $3.22, Now $2.00
• Heinz Tomato Ketchup 40 oz. Was $2.42, Now $1.00
• Breyer's All Natural ice cream 48 oz. Now $2.25
• Betty Crocker Brownie Mix 18.3 oz. Was $1.44, Now $.75
• Keebler Fudge Shopper cookies 8.5-12.5 oz. Was $2.88, Now $2.00
• Kraft Macaroni & Cheese 5 pack Was $3.58, Now $2.50
• Pineapple Now $1.98 each
• Blueberries pint, Now $2.50 each
• Seedless Watermelon, Now $3.88 each
• Garden Salad 24 oz., Now $2.50
• Sweet Corn, Now $.19 each
• Asparagus, Now $1.88 lb. 
• Ataulfo Mangos, Now $.50 each

To save even more, use our Coupon Lists to see if your state/area has coupons for any of them items listed above!


There are also thousands of Rollbacks going on online! You can browse them at the following links:

Low Prices Just Got Lower at Walmart.com – Save on Rollback Specials!
Huge Savings on Rollback Specials in the Baby Department at Walmart.com!
Shop and Save on Top Brand Electronics Rollbacks at Walmart.com
Save even more on hot Rollback Toys at Walmart.com!
Shop Outdoor Living Rollbacks at Walmart.com!

"This Friday and Saturday only, take an extra 50% off our already-amazing clearance prices on items for the whole family. It’s incredible, and it’s 2 days only—so hurry!

In-store only. Valid in stores in the US only.

Extra 50% off applies to already reduced items. Select styles only. Discount taken at register."

Check your local store for hours and details.

We have so many electronics in our lives that are consuming power. Every where we turn there is a new gadget or appliance that we want and when we use these things we get bigger electric bills. I am amazed at how big my power bill is every month. I have decided that I need to step back and take a look at ways that I can cut these costs.

Something that often gets overlooked in my house is turning off the lights we are not using. It is so simple and yet something that gets overlooked in my house. We need to teach our children to turn off the lights. Make it a habit!

In the evening I like to read. I have been trying to use more task lighting rather than turning on the main room lighting all the time. A simple lamp on the table next to the chair or the bed can conserve electricity.

Get a programmable thermostat. Keep your home at the comfortable temperature when you are home and colder in the winter and warmer in the summer when you are not home. This can help with not only your power bill but your gas bill too.

While we are on the subject of temperature consider living with the settings a little cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer. Once you get used to it a few degrees doesn’t make a big difference

Unplug the items that you are not using frequently. Even if something is not turned on if it plugged in it is drawing power.

We are in the process of changing over our light bulbs to compact fluorescent. We are getting close to having every possible bulb changed over. These bulbs tend to cost a bit more up front but they actually do have an effect of the power bill. They take about 1/3 the power that incandescent bulbs take. Watch the discount bins at your grocery stores. I came upon a bunch of compact florescent bulbs for .99 a package - just because they were changing packaging.

Only open your refrigerator when you have too. Vacuum the coils frequently to remove dust. Keep a list on your fridge/freezer so you know what is inside. Check your owner’s manual to see what the most energy efficient temperature setting is.

Now that the weather is improving consider drying your laundry outside. Only run your clothes washer or dishwasher if it is full. Use a crock pot rather than your oven - just remember to unplug it when you are done.

Initially the savings on your bill may appear small but over the coarse of the year you will notice that the savings really can add up.

Canon PIXMA iP4700 Premium Inkjet Photo Printer
Amazon Deal of the Day LINK
List Price: $99.99
Yesterday's Price: $59.99
Today's Discount: - $20.00
Gold Box Price: $39.99 (60% off)

Ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

$12 DRESSES!
Today only! While supplies last!

Aeropostale.com LINK

They have 9 styles in lots of sizes, colors and patterns!
Reg prices of $29.50 - $34.50

1. Crocs Prepair only $14.99 PLUS FREE shipping!!



More info HERE

2. Over 450 Kids DVDs up to 62% off plus Free Shipping at www. DeepDiscount.com!



More info HERE

3. Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program! Earn FREE books!

:

More info HERE

4. Save up to 50% on Teen and Kids book PLUS free Shipping on $25 at www.Barnesandnoble.com!



More info HERE

5. Free 8x10 Canvas from Canvas People!! Pay shipping only!




More info HERE

6. Buy Cache Valley Cheese or Butter, receive FREE admission to Hogle Zoo, Megaplex Theatres, or a Salt Lake Bees game!



More info HERE

7.Wii/Xbox/PS3/DS Lego Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues is only $19.99 at www.amazon.com!




More info HERE

8. $25 Dining Certificate for $2 at Restaurant.com!



More info HERE

9. Win your own airplane - the Ace Flyer Teeter Totter from Pinchingyourpennies.com and Lifetime Products!



More info HERE

My kids love, love, love anything that has to do with art, coloring, drawing, etc. We have tons of coloring books, how-to-draw books, workbooks...you name it! But I get frustrated with the mess it can create...books all over the place! This isn't even all of them!


As you can see in the photo, I have a couple of plastic file boxes. I love organizers of any kind! I am working on organizing all these books, and I want more file boxes. But I am too thrifty to just go spend $7+ dollars on several more organizers....so I am making my own! We all have empty cereal boxes around the house. Here is one way to use them.

Supplies you will need:

a large cereal box (large enough to fit the books inside)
modge podge
brush
scissors
scrapbook paper to cover the cereal box

You can see on the cereal box I took a permanent marker and drew the lines where I wanted to cut the box. I just used my current file boxes as a template. You can eyeball it with a ruler too.


Then cut your box on the lines you drew. Here is what mine looked like after I cut it:


Then you will want to take your scrapbook paper and trace to cut.


At first I was going to use a couple of different kinds of paper on the box, but then I changed my mind. Here are all the paper pieces, ready to be put on the box.



Take your modge podge and paintbrush and cover one side at a time. Line up the paper pieces that fit on that side and press firmly. Get out all the air bubbles and smooth out.



When you are all done with each side here is what it looks like. Pretty cute, huh!



After it dries for a bit, take your paintbrush and paint modge podge over the edges and corners to reinforce durability.

Now you have a cute file box! I put it in the cupboard...and it looks great! Now I need to make a few more. I will also label them with the book contents to make it easier for the kids to put things back where they belong.

I already had all my supplies on hand for this project, so I didn't have to spend any extra money to start organizing my kids workbooks. Next time you need to do some organizing, think thrifty and pinch your pennies!

1. Use 2-for-1 coupons.
You'll find them in the newspaper or in direct mail offers those buy-one-meal-get-the-other-one-free deals. Use them as a way to discover new restaurants you haven't tried yet or just to save money when you feel like eating out. Get more restaurant coupons here.

2. Kids Eat Free
Many restaurants offer a night or two a week when kids eat free! Just by ordering meals for the parents.

3. Split dinners.
This works best in Italian or Chinese restaurants, but it can be used anywhere. At restaurants known for exceptionally large servings, order only one entree and split it. For a family of four, order only two or three entrees and divvy them up among yourselves.

4. Buffet meals for family fare.
When taking the family out to dinner, consider restaurants that have buffets. In most cases, the prices are outstanding and a parent can share with a small child. They are usually all-you-can-eat, and there is something for everyone. Other than fast-food restaurants, buffets are one place that won't break the bank when eating out.

5. Try out appetizers.
Better restaurants usually have a long list of appetizers that are reasonably priced. If you're not outrageously hungry, perhaps there's a yummy item on the appetizer menu that will satisfy your hunger. Also, don't be afraid to ask for fresh bread to accompany your meal. Another idea is to order soup and/or salad.

6. Watch what you drink.
Drinks, including sodas, have some of the highest mark-ups. Limit yourself to water with a squeeze of lemon or lime with your meal.

7. Ask for a doggie bag.
It really isn't necessary to clean your plate off. Eat what you feel comfortable with and take the rest home for another meal. This in itself is a 2-for-1 deal.

8. Try lunch instead of dinner.
Many of the expensive restaurants are also open for lunch, but the lunch menu can be as much as half the cost of their dinner menu. If you're dying to try a pricey new eatery, why not go for lunch and keep the cost down. Many places I have go to will allow you to order from the lunch menu even at dinner time, it can't hurt to ask.

9. Older is better.
Some places it's 50, others it's 55, 60, 62 or 65, but seniors can luck out at many restaurants that offer them a discount. Sometimes senior discounts are offered on specific nights of the week. Call your favorite restaurants and ask if they offer senior discounts. Also, places like Denny's and IHOP have senior menus offering smaller quantities and lower prices, and many times you don't have to be a senior to enjoy the savings.

10. Check out online specials.
If you have favorite chain restaurants, check their sites out online to see if they have specials you can take advantage of. Sign up for their newsletter to receive coupons, special offers and freebies on your birthday.

Have you ever seen their "hidden" deals?
There are 4 deals which are only found on the page you see after you add an item to your cart. (You can remove this item later if needed.)
They are always 4 very good deals!
One current item: Tabletop Tumblers Set - $14.99
Tupperware.com LINK
Don't forget to check their Sale, Online Exclusive and New This Month sections for more deals!

Just one of the awesome tools here at PYP...ready-made shopping lists.  We scour grocery ads to find the best deals at many of your favorite stores, and match them with available coupons.   Check the list below and see if you find your favorite store!

Idaho Albertson's Idaho Fred Meyer Idaho Smith's Utah Albertson's Utah Associated Foods Stores Utah Bowman's Utah Dan's Utah Dick's Utah Harmon's Utah Kent's Utah Fresh Market Utah Kohler's Utah Lee's Utah Lin's Utah Macey's Utah Ream's (Salt Lake & Davis counties) Utah Ream's (Springville) Utah Smith's Arizona Fry's Arizona Albertson's

Arizona Basha's Arizona Safeway National Walgreen's National CVS Nevada Albertson's Nevada Smith's Nevada Von's California North Raley's California North Safeway California North CVS California South Albertsons California South Ralph's California South Von's California South Stater Brother's California South Pavilions California South Food For Less Washington East Albertsons Washington East Fred Meyer Washington East Safeway Washington East Walgreens

Today is the last day to enter to win this awesome food storage organization prize - The Harvest 51".

Our friends at Shelf Reliance are helping us give away a Harvest 51" (Retail value $379.99) to one LUCKY PYP member.


The Harvest 51" is the perfect FRS for smaller families or those with a limited amount of storage space. This FRS system holds up to 381 cans that are automatically rotated on a first in first out basis. This means you'll never have to deal with expiration dates again! All can tracks have an adjustable width so you can store goods the way you want, and, like all Shelf Reliance Food Rotation Systems, the Harvest 51" sits flat against virtually any wall surface.

There are 12 ways you can enter this giveaway, for up to 12 entries.  All entries must be in the contest thread in the forums at PYP.  If you aren't registered, you can register at THIS LINK.  It's free and easy! Comments on the PYP blog or Facebook are NOT eligible. 

ENTER GIVEAWAY AT THIS LINK

Anyone who has been in a grocery store recently knows that the price of food has dramatically increased. The same groceries that cost 100 dollars one year ago now cost more like 150 dollars. These days, it costs more to buy items on sale than it did to buy the same items at regular price one year ago. What makes it worse is that consumers are being hit on all fronts. It’s not just at the grocery store that we’re taking a beating. We take a financial beating each time we open our heating and electric bills, when we’re at the gas pump, when we look at our paycheck and see another year with no cost of living increase, when we lose our job, or lose our benefits. Now when we can least afford it the price of groceries is spiraling out of control.

While there have always been frugal shoppers, it is increasingly common to see people seeking out affordable food. What can a consumer do to provide good nourishing food for their family? How do you go about getting kids enough food to eat, while making sure you don’t run out of food before you run out of money?

There are some general rules to follow that can help take a bite out of your grocery bill. The following suggestions can help you squeeze every last cent out of your overstretched budget.

First, eliminate impulse shopping. Saving money starts at home. Start by preparing a grocery list. When making out your list, there are several considerations.

The first rule is, when money is tight, staples must come first. Snacks and goodies can be added in at the end if there is any money left over. Staples are those foods that your family can live on, food that will keep everyone fed and healthy. Staples are food that will keep your family from hunger, should times get really hard. What are staple foods? Food like potatoes, rice, pasta, beans, cereal, bread, milk, cheese, eggs, meat, fruits, and vegetables are all staples. Also basic cooking essentials such as oil, butter, salt, and sugar can be considered staple supplies. If you can keep pasta, canned tomatoes, canned soups, bread, peanut butter, eggs, milk, and potatoes in your house, your family will not go hungry. They may long for potato chips and soda, but those foods are relatively expensive and will not keep your family healthy and well fed. Snack foods can drain the household budget. So put staples on the top of your grocery list, and make buying them your priority.

The next rule for saving money is to take advantage of sales. Look through the shopping lists at www.PinchingYourPennies.com before heading to the store. Plan your grocery list based on what is on sale that week. If you are thinking of having chicken but there is a sale on pork, make the switch. If you notice coupons on the shopping list that you have saved from your Sunday newspaper, cut them out and use them. Be sure to set aside those coupon inserts each week before recycling your newspaper, you never know when you'll need them.

Find out if your supermarket offers a double coupon day, when they will match the savings offered by manufacturers’ coupons. Coupon and sale savings may seem like small change, but that change will add up. If you're able, purchase extra Sunday newspapers, and the coupon savings will add up even faster. Every bit of money you save is money you can spend on something else, whether a special snack or treat, or to pay another bill.

Another way to save money is to apply for a supermarket store card. Many stores offer these, and it takes just a few minutes to apply for one. Usually you’ll receive your card right away, and the card can often save you significant money. Many stores offer special savings to card holders. It is possible to save 10 percent or more of your grocery bill by presenting your card at the check out.

Once you have your grocery list, with staples given priority, your coupons, and your courtesy card, you are ready to shop. When in the supermarket, develop the habit of cruising for sales stickers. No doubt you know where to find all your old favorite food items, but try to change the way you shop now. Go aisle to aisle looking for the sale stickers that indicate markdowns. Watch for Catalina promotions that offer savings off your next shopping order if you buy a specified amount of an item. Buy as much as you can on sale. If a different kind of cereal than you normally choose is on sale, buy it. If your normal brand is on sale, try to buy two. Train your eye to spot sale signs no matter what section you are in. If you regularly reach for sale items, and incorporate these into your weekly groceries, you will see the savings at the register.

Look for local products, in season. Local apples in the fall are less expensive than apples flown around the world. The same is true for tomatoes, berries, melon, corn, and all produce items. You will save money and help the local economy by buying products from where you live.

Try to buy larger sizes of items. This can be difficult to do when you are trying to spend less, because initially you have to spend more money to buy the larger size, but in the long run you will save money. Say you normally go through one small (16 ounces) jar of peanut butter per week, at a cost of $2.60. If you buy the larger size (28 ounces) instead, you will pay about $3.70, which is $1.10 more. But you will have nearly two weeks of peanut butter, and the second week’s supply you are getting at about half price. Week in and week out, those cents add up, and you can put them to good use. Because you initially have to spend more money for a larger size item, try to choose just one or two items to begin with. Each week, with your savings adding up, you can add a few additional large size items. Your savings will definitely accumulate.

The next rule may mean making changes in how you prepare food, but it has the potential to save you the most money. The rule is: make it yourself, bake it yourself, mix it yourself and grate it yourself. The more prepared and packaged food is, the more money you will spend buying it. Plain ingredients cost less. If you focus on buying staples like potatoes, rice, chicken, and cheese, and prepare food for your family the old fashioned way, you’ll save a lot of money.
Perhaps you like to buy prepared chicken dinners from the frozen food section. You can buy a one pound chicken dinner, ready to heat and serve for around $3 each. For a family of four, that amounts to $12 for dinner. Each dinner contains 4 to 5 ounces of chicken with gravy, 4 to 5 ounces of mashed potatoes, 2 to 3 ounces of corn, and a 3 ounce brownie. But for the same $16, you can buy a 4 to 5 pound roasting chicken (about $6 fresh, or about $5 frozen); one 10 lb. bag of potatoes (about $3.99), two cans of corn (about 75 cents each) and one brownie mix (about $1.49). You can reduce this price further if any of these items are on sale. So the same $12 dollars provides ingredients for a complete homemade chicken dinner. In addition, there will be enough for a second chicken dinner the next night, and very likely a little left over for a chicken sandwich or two, or the makings of a batch of chicken soup. Also, you’ll have brownies left over for a day or so, and a large bag of potatoes to eat for a week or more. By making it yourself, you more than double the purchase power of your money.

Making something with grated cheese? If you buy 8 ounces of grated cheddar cheese you’ll spend about $3. For the same price, you can get twice as much cheese (16 ounces) by purchasing it as a bar and grating your own. That way you’ll have cheese left over for sandwiches, omelets, casseroles, or snacks. Get it on sale and you will really save money.

The examples are endless with convenience foods. Avoid single servings and individually wrapped snacks and drinks. You are paying extra for packaging. Instead of juice boxes, buy a large bottle of juice. Convenience sizes may be convenient, but they are a budget buster.

Don’t forget to apply the savings suggestions toward snack foods. Snack foods can be amongst the most expensive items in the supermarket. Try buying a bag of unpopped corn and pop it yourself. Buy brownie mix, and have the kids help you make a batch for an after school snack. Buy jello and pudding mix packages for about 50 cents each and let school-age kids take charge of preparing dessert. Buy more expensive items like ice cream, boxed pizza, or soft drinks only when they on sale. Treats raise everyone’s spirits when money is scarce. But don’t let packaged cookies and soft drinks derail your food budget. These are extras, and your family will be healthier if they become accustomed to having such snacks as an occasional treat rather than every day.

In tough economic times, it is necessary to watch every penny you spend. Incomes are not going up, so most people have to find a way to make do with less. Good healthy food is a priority. If you follow the suggestions above, you will find it a little easier to provide your family with good nutritious meals.

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It is a known fact that money is tight these days. With the economy constantly on a decline, it is understandable that most of us barely have the money to get by, much less take care of our pets. Animals are a huge responsibility. Having a pet is practically like raising another child. The truth is that it can get expensive, but luckily, there are ways around having to spend tons of $$ on your pet:

1. Instead of buying the usual, high dollar, brand name pet food, opt for the store brand. Most store brands contain the same amount of nutrients that the expensive name brands do and usually can cost up to $15.00 less. If you look at that from a bi-weekly stand point, that is $30.00 a month. Over the period of a year, that is $360.00. Of course your pet my have special dietary needs, but there may be less expensive options there too. To change to another brand of pet food ideally you should gradually do this over time.

2. It may seem like an expensive option in the beginning, but getting your pet spayed or neutered can save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Luckily, many animal shelters do this for free or offer substantial savings vs the cost of doing this at the vet's office or animal hospital.

3. All dogs should take heartworm medication on a monthly basis in order to protect them from developing heartworms. A lot of times, you can actually save money buy purchasing these medications in bulk instead of individually. Another option is the online or mail order stores.

4. Ideally, cats and dogs need regular teeth cleanings. Instead of purchasing expensive pet toothpaste, try mixing baking soda with a little bit of water together to clean your pet's teeth.

5. If you are wanting to purchase a pet, to help your kids learn responsibility, but do not have enough money for an expensive one, then you may have to purchase something a bit less costly like a small gold fish, duck, rabbit, or mixed breed. pup. Also, watch for pet adoption specials, our local shelter frequently has specials on cats - like "Buy One Get One Free."

6. Make use of your old blankets and sheets when it comes to bedding for your pet. Some beds and fancy pet blankets can cost up to $50.00 or more depending on the size of your pet. They won't even know the difference!

7. Instead of taking your pet to be professionally wormed, purchase a de-worming kit from your local pet store and do it yourself. You will most likely save hundreds of dollars per year by taking this route.

8. Groom your pet at home instead of taking him out for a professional grooming, which can add up to hundreds of dollars over the course of a year. You may even want to ask around to see if any of your friends or family members will groom your pet for free to save you the labor. You can buy hair clippers at pretty much any store and while it may take a bit of practice and time the savings is worth it. The first time I took my dog to get groomed and it cost $55 was the last time he was professionally groomed.

9. When it comes to vaccinations, you can check in with your local animal shelter to see when they will be performing these services free or at discounted prices.

10. As those cold winter months approach, many of us want to dress our pets up in cute little sweaters and other decorative outfits to keep them warm. To save money, a better alternative would be to knit their sweaters yourself, or only shop for pet sweaters at discount stores or online to find the best prices. Although, pets come with their own coat that doesn't cost extra money!

By putting these simple tips into action, you can save hundreds if not thousands of dollars per year on your pet. The best part is that as long as your pet has everything they need, they will be perfectly happy. Animals never know the difference between what is name brand and what is not. Naturally, we want to give our pets the best life has to offer. But in the long run, it is better for the owner to be happy, as well as the pet.

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After finding a pork roast from about 18 months ago in my freezer I decided I needed to talk to my meat manager friend about how long meats remain fresh and edible.

I asked first about how you can tell if something in your fridge is still good. He made a good point in reminding me that bacteria cannot been seen, you have to use your nose. It is very heard to write what to smell for though, so next time you buy some fresh meat give it a smell and then you will know what fresh smells like. Once a piece of meat has been cut and then touches another surface the color can start to change -- so color is not the way to judge if something is fresh.

My next question was, "How long can you keep it in the freezer? Fridge?" This was the response he gave me: As far as fresh cuts of meats this depends on a lot of factors. Is the fridge at the proper temperature? That is the biggest issue. If the temperature is right 1 to 2 days max on ground meats, no more the 3 to 5 days for fresh cut meat. If the meat is vacuum packed you can get about 5-10 days in the fridge and you can get six months to a year in plastic freezer bags.

I personally use my food saver and vacuum pack everything and I believe that I can push my meats to at least a year that way. From what I understand from researching online many people will push vacuum packed meats two years.

Norbest says you can get up too two years if the original packaging is not broken.

So there you have it, some simple to follow guidelines. While everyone may have their own ideas as to what is acceptable, use your best judgment.