tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78631108659916253932024-03-13T01:05:33.498-04:00The Sharp Scissors LadyEncouraging others to clip and save.Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.comBlogger1095125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-16653053238872191252010-11-26T14:05:00.005-05:002010-11-26T15:15:24.961-05:00Black Friday Discount on Cloth Diapers (and MORE!)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9pqDA1omrsy0Nl0DIwRy0OSn-aIg9z2Vv9CUzlns0JcxnFzD5LGHQNLTkOHkwwqW8we-9BZyvrcwlojkM7B34JJPCJ2HgAISU5SU_y0BQ9kr-Q-tD6WE712XGcs9aagkqrWnil4l_MI/s1600/n617647611_1163141_9663.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9pqDA1omrsy0Nl0DIwRy0OSn-aIg9z2Vv9CUzlns0JcxnFzD5LGHQNLTkOHkwwqW8we-9BZyvrcwlojkM7B34JJPCJ2HgAISU5SU_y0BQ9kr-Q-tD6WE712XGcs9aagkqrWnil4l_MI/s400/n617647611_1163141_9663.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543940910497037234" border="0" /></a>Yep, that's my son in a cloth diaper when he was 4 months old, so cute... I know, I know!!!<br /><br />I have previously posted about <a href="http://www.sharpenyourscissors.net/2009/10/thought-provoking-thursday_22.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">the pros and cons of cloth diapering</span></a>, and yes, I understand that it isn't for everybody--- but IF you are considering switching to cloth, or adding to your diaper stash, my FAVORITE online cloth diaper store is having a BLACK FRIDAY SALE!<br /><br />Visit <a href="http://babycrunchy.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">BabyCrunchy.com</span></a> to browse from the convenience of your own, warm home!<br /><br />Here is an excerpt of the<a href="http://www.babycrunchy.com/blackfriday/"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> discount details from Baby Crunchy</span></a>:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"</span> <span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> BLACK FRIDAY MADNESS!!!</span></span><div class="entry"> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br/>Best deal to be had on Black Friday– <strong>SAVE 15</strong>% on Black Friday by using coupon code blackfriday10 during checkout!!!!**</p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br/><strong>Buy 5 bumGenius 4.0′s and Get 1 FREE</strong>! Use code BUY5GET1 (cannot be stacked or combined with other coupons).</p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br/>Always <strong>free shipping over $30 </strong>within the US.</p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br/><strong>FuzziBunz perfect size</strong> sale CONTINUES. Save an additional 15% off with above black friday code making each Small and Medium diaper <strong>less than $13/diaper</strong>!!!</p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br/>We will also be offering specific products (aden + anais, born free, breathable bumpers etc) for Saturday/Sunday and cyber Monday may bring back the 15% off coupon. Check back for details.</p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br/>**Small print– Coupon valid from 12:01am eastern 11/26/10 until 3 am 11/27/10. Valid while supplies last– NO Rainchecks will be issued– sorry!</p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br/>We have flip’s w/ aplix in stock. We have them listed under covers– if you would like to make a package with them (1 cover, 1 insert OR Day Pack etc- shoot me a quick e-mail {<a href="http://info@babycrunchy.com/">info@babycrunchy.com</a>} and it should be no problem to switch provided we still have the stock). We will be checking our e-mail frequently this weekend to provide excellent customer service."</p><p><br /><br/>Do you cloth diaper? We are stocked and ready to diaper our newest addition <span style="font-style: italic;">(due to make his/her appearance in February)</span> with BumGenius 3.0's and Econobum! Are you interested in giving cloth diapers a try?</p><p></p></div>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com120tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-48484978130136836662010-11-04T13:27:00.002-04:002010-11-04T13:38:30.842-04:00Homemade Mac & CheeseYAY! I<span style="font-style: italic;"> finally</span> found the recipe!!!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Homemade Mac & Cheese</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">(Stouffer's knock-off recipe)</span><br />topsecretrecipes.com<br />Serves: 4<br /><br />1 cup of skim milk<br />5 teaspoons of all purpose flour<br />2 cups of shredded cheddar<br />2 teaspoons of butter<br />1/4 teaspoon + 1/8 teaspoon of salt<br />3/4 cup of uncooked elbow macaroni<br /><br />1. Whisk the flour into the milk in a small saucepan. Place over medium heat.<br /><br />2. Add cheddar cheese, butter and salt, and stir often until cheese begins to melt. Reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes. Whisk the sauce every few minutes to make sure the sauce becomes smooth and thick.<br /><br />3. While the sauce thickens, prepare the macaroni as stated on the box.<br /><br />4. When the cheese sauce has simmered for 30 minutes, pour the pasta into a bowl and gently stir in the cheese sauce. Pour mix into a greased dish.<br /><br />5a. Bake at 350* for 25ish minutes and serve immediately.<br /><br />5b. Cover and freeze. When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350* and bake for 50-55 minutes.<br /><br />6. Enjoy!Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-46530385331883614842010-10-29T09:51:00.003-04:002010-10-29T09:55:14.584-04:00FREE Lip Gloss<a href="http://ebm.cheetahmail.com/r/regf2?aid=528207786&a=0&n=44&2673&cm_mmc=CH-_-20101029RDM-_-10017308-_-mainPrintCoupon&cm_lm="><span style="font-weight: bold;">THIS</span></a> Bath and Body Works coupon is among my favorite of the year!<br /><br />Purchase ANY B&BW item in the store and get a FREE lip gloss. Hurry the coupon expires on 10/31.<br /><br />PS: In my experience, some B&BW stores do NOT adhere to the one coupon per person rule stated on the coupon. This may be a great little addition to your Christmas gifts! Hey, you'd be able to claim that you started your Christmas shopping in OCTOBER this year!!!<br /><br />Enjoy!Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-40549806871795979862010-10-26T17:47:00.002-04:002010-10-26T17:50:30.755-04:00Warm-You-Up Meals<h3 class="post-title entry-title"> <a href="http://clipandcook.blogspot.com/2009/12/tomato-sauce.html">Tomato Sauce</a></h3>I made a batch of homemade tomato sauce yesterday, and tonight we are warming our bellies with a pie plate brimming with Baked Spaghetti a la homemade tomato sauce! Yum!<br /><br /><div class="post-header"> </div> <div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0awCm9v0_PBx9gsfbnUSytTUACrRptMtM0rxz_TXzz23lxQA5L18tkcn520a6x6BzisbZcSlaphAwo26UpZ2SMLMwB1XcD8uxlC3J3u2swBwyC62sHrlN88BkZCcZ87a1GdbfEO16mq0/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+106.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397284846375528882" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0awCm9v0_PBx9gsfbnUSytTUACrRptMtM0rxz_TXzz23lxQA5L18tkcn520a6x6BzisbZcSlaphAwo26UpZ2SMLMwB1XcD8uxlC3J3u2swBwyC62sHrlN88BkZCcZ87a1GdbfEO16mq0/s400/October.+24.2009+106.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a><strong></strong>I shopped at Gordon Food Service for a few of the key ingredients. I wanted large cans of tomatoes that were purchasable without a warehouse membership.<strong> </strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>The ingredient list for homemade tomato sauce: Canned tomatoes</strong> <em>(I chose diced),</em> <strong>canned tomato puree, Kosher salt, garlic</strong> <em>(I chose fresh, but you could choose garlic salt and omit the Kosher salt),</em> <strong>Basil, Oregano, Italian seasonings and spaghetti sauce seasoning packets</strong> <em>(for thickening).</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFKwU9SMXRfhbTdvMIJazpJhR7C1lNDrjHNW68XTCvId584iylkQRLhXB26_otFIVnBCjbiUd933hlGr3v7gGdKhKB5lGKQtPkJnLVT4_7D2ziLxaSzZ57WvmtqeMKyhfaPqWcEyVS6I/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+110.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397284623475104482" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFKwU9SMXRfhbTdvMIJazpJhR7C1lNDrjHNW68XTCvId584iylkQRLhXB26_otFIVnBCjbiUd933hlGr3v7gGdKhKB5lGKQtPkJnLVT4_7D2ziLxaSzZ57WvmtqeMKyhfaPqWcEyVS6I/s400/October.+24.2009+110.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a>I first opened all of my big cans, and<strong> I scooped out just the tomatoes with a slotted spoon.</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyWXzwFYPknMo7a_4rNIzcgpG-SbTNKqlDHnsUYjCzhFbwetybiV6Y-wSExUUZRKg8PJEr7bGJdyFPlbSfzzQUoH_Sw3Pt9Wdbz5PXw1UyuTFRnhC4_YGKssPuobuj6TIY6oIMfyI1f4/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+113.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397284426240246210" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyWXzwFYPknMo7a_4rNIzcgpG-SbTNKqlDHnsUYjCzhFbwetybiV6Y-wSExUUZRKg8PJEr7bGJdyFPlbSfzzQUoH_Sw3Pt9Wdbz5PXw1UyuTFRnhC4_YGKssPuobuj6TIY6oIMfyI1f4/s400/October.+24.2009+113.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a><strong>I placed the diced tomatoes into my blender and pulverized them!!!</strong>OK, I did accidentally use the crushed ice setting- and these bad boys were blended into oblivion in 4.3 seconds... literally!<strong> </strong><em>(If you happen to love tomatoes as much as I do... this step smells AWESOME!)</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDtYgi0aYjsq6ihquk4Va9yabKGAN0V8Qj7Mrtk0MzVTS911aHLC64bDmd-wgpX147bTktRpj8fx93PDtr28PvA-6ADTU7EAJrEVqXSnMRL9EWdZux1fq5l_zN3JvOKSwZ3Cya6Jt9unI/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+115.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397283824341877890" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDtYgi0aYjsq6ihquk4Va9yabKGAN0V8Qj7Mrtk0MzVTS911aHLC64bDmd-wgpX147bTktRpj8fx93PDtr28PvA-6ADTU7EAJrEVqXSnMRL9EWdZux1fq5l_zN3JvOKSwZ3Cya6Jt9unI/s400/October.+24.2009+115.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a>The more tomatoes that I sifted out of the large cans, the more difficult it became to separate the diced tomatoes from the liquid, so<strong> I pulled out my favorite little strainer</strong><em><strong> </strong>(circa: 1997, my first purchased 'move out on my own' item!)</em> <strong>and sifted the remaining tomato pieces.</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0oB3RtAxduMfIjijFfheuer7_g1gJdMcPBA913QmM2c1e4TOWOciz2-NXChgNJg0Z6lkl_TI01SpvtN3CjOOOKcE9QuIb27vV-RvD0YtyrnFuORP6qpLfqryCz4v81kUAf3R3rN34KnU/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+120.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397283305212428482" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0oB3RtAxduMfIjijFfheuer7_g1gJdMcPBA913QmM2c1e4TOWOciz2-NXChgNJg0Z6lkl_TI01SpvtN3CjOOOKcE9QuIb27vV-RvD0YtyrnFuORP6qpLfqryCz4v81kUAf3R3rN34KnU/s400/October.+24.2009+120.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a><strong>I reserved the juice for later</strong> <em>(even though I just wanted to chug it!!!)</em><strong> The remainder was surprisingly about 3 cups of juice!</strong> *NOTE: I only added one can's worth of tomato juice into the tomato sauce. I am saving the remainder for another recipe.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nqa-LFuc68OLa-bDrErYZSZg1lrunW7ykSmV0sQZhkAY4kioCiC9Ry8ByfabpkQtao8O_lGgJqkrBnL7xM9VIShAqfSxr2vvcY2YhJXczg323vEWyAIUr9dCVtPmFkjCs3hVc6fqFHY/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+122.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397282738982480322" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nqa-LFuc68OLa-bDrErYZSZg1lrunW7ykSmV0sQZhkAY4kioCiC9Ry8ByfabpkQtao8O_lGgJqkrBnL7xM9VIShAqfSxr2vvcY2YhJXczg323vEWyAIUr9dCVtPmFkjCs3hVc6fqFHY/s400/October.+24.2009+122.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a>OK, I far over estimated how much tomato puree I would need, and to add cherry on top <em>(so to speak)</em> I underestimated the size of my stock pot <em>(8 quart).</em><strong>I used 1/3 of the large can</strong><em> (4 cups)</em><strong> of the puree in my sauce. </strong>I still think that it was more cost effective to purchase the large can <em>($4.50)</em> and use 1/3 and freeze the remaining 2/3 for another sauce making day!</div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1BRBVGO8Y6Ck4eCwgiHBEkZP_lXq9ezfokYFw7HF1AZRxWYKn4JZ6S2IbY6e86i453mEaXgBU0VEYASgqORPDWpRfQWDBNz-hRHFPGJk8_U5edKIWBNHEyqw1VKFXqjUK4mEmsi9AcYM/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+125.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397282529823073762" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1BRBVGO8Y6Ck4eCwgiHBEkZP_lXq9ezfokYFw7HF1AZRxWYKn4JZ6S2IbY6e86i453mEaXgBU0VEYASgqORPDWpRfQWDBNz-hRHFPGJk8_U5edKIWBNHEyqw1VKFXqjUK4mEmsi9AcYM/s400/October.+24.2009+125.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a>We are HUGE fans of garlic in our house! <strong>One full head of garlic minced was yummy, but next time I may add more... </strong>or I may just add more when I add my ground beef or ground turkey to the sauce!</div><div><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0QmUbYpj8F92t4Td_1SVvogCZjw2EzHPJsYV65En_U71Ji-aPsKXOh2vOUsCHpIUKdqDeV8AmWA9RL-cekUNXWJP6bEtTPNUtfZMqrlI8m70QGC0siAOE8cZpDrxrol-4LPFfQ9xi3c/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+126.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397281869064589554" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0QmUbYpj8F92t4Td_1SVvogCZjw2EzHPJsYV65En_U71Ji-aPsKXOh2vOUsCHpIUKdqDeV8AmWA9RL-cekUNXWJP6bEtTPNUtfZMqrlI8m70QGC0siAOE8cZpDrxrol-4LPFfQ9xi3c/s400/October.+24.2009+126.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a><strong>Along with the freshly pressed garlic</strong> <em>(bottom),</em> <strong>I added 1 1/2t. Basil</strong><em>(left),</em> <strong>3t. Oregano</strong> <em>(top),</em> <strong>and 3t. Italian seasonings</strong> <em>(right).</em> <strong>I also added 2t. of Kosher salt </strong><em>(not in the photo!).</em></div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lrgXFXGhFzHX2Np19gFKKDGnxv28N2JkZOTA6e0S5ssm9jalZ-hlzRuIQVQ9Jt9krA2GsxVae8f1bKyT6F-RfJAIGD2g2pTVmmDIy5dWH9M4-nG3y6uEzKXVys0LFNtiH9EpVtNtoJ0/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+127.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397281566876235314" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lrgXFXGhFzHX2Np19gFKKDGnxv28N2JkZOTA6e0S5ssm9jalZ-hlzRuIQVQ9Jt9krA2GsxVae8f1bKyT6F-RfJAIGD2g2pTVmmDIy5dWH9M4-nG3y6uEzKXVys0LFNtiH9EpVtNtoJ0/s400/October.+24.2009+127.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a>Sheepishly, I'll admit that this photo is actually NOT the truth! <strong>I added just TWO packets,</strong> three seemed excessive,<strong> and after taste testing the final product... TWO was the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">perfecto</span> amount!!!</strong></div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3hvNjeuX8O_lb2UcC8FVrlLq5Ml3kyucCrMnMaLKdPbrLxKqYYg4vBf1hZ6C5y7ICI7puZ738KVfqwBnEzeHqxNdsbFc38xfUZ8JxhOdqPACVvf_jf9SKwdAQFLOJFYZsOHF8i0zSl0/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+128.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397281288800283266" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3hvNjeuX8O_lb2UcC8FVrlLq5Ml3kyucCrMnMaLKdPbrLxKqYYg4vBf1hZ6C5y7ICI7puZ738KVfqwBnEzeHqxNdsbFc38xfUZ8JxhOdqPACVvf_jf9SKwdAQFLOJFYZsOHF8i0zSl0/s400/October.+24.2009+128.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a><strong>Mix all ingredients well, and it looks beautiful...</strong> just like this!!! I wish you catch a whiff of this!!!</div><div><strong><br /><br />I simmered the sauce for 3 hours, happily stirring every half hour or so.</strong> I must admit, I snitched a couple of spoon-samplings... just to make sure it was STILL yummy! Rest assured, it was!</div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQfqmg3bJXJnvMLRmq6NvqmL3ehXiEmqZ96lhC260kbuQIZgW0mdIYxAREX4x0ikhtZJ4F7qkm6tyHZoVLzSnfQdpVQ7LFYvPo-N14hmEg1mP7VW4EZD4T3W1KER2ZfL3Y045WBe0Kzr8/s1600-h/October.+24.2009+135.jpg" style="color: rgb(112, 147, 40); text-decoration: none;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397280755123123314" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQfqmg3bJXJnvMLRmq6NvqmL3ehXiEmqZ96lhC260kbuQIZgW0mdIYxAREX4x0ikhtZJ4F7qkm6tyHZoVLzSnfQdpVQ7LFYvPo-N14hmEg1mP7VW4EZD4T3W1KER2ZfL3Y045WBe0Kzr8/s400/October.+24.2009+135.jpg" style="border-style: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><strong>I daringly</strong> <em>(since I've experienced Ziploc bag fail)</em> <strong>measured out 3 cups</strong> <em>(24 ounces since jarred sauce is portioned at 26 ounces/jar)</em> <strong>of homemade tomato sauce per Ziploc.</strong> </p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><strong><br /><br />I was pleasantly surprised to receive (10) 3 cup portions!</strong> I'm looking forward to making hearty pasta dishes like: lasagna, spaghetti, baked spaghetti, and chicken Parmesan.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><strong><br /><br />Recipe Recap:</strong> <em>(with my pricing)</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;">(2) 6lb/6oz Cans of tomatoes. <em>(3.49/can = $6.98)</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><em></em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;">4 Cups of tomato puree. <em>($4.49/can, 1/3 can = $1.50)</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><em></em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;">1 1/2 Teaspoons of Basil. <em>(unsure of cost, we already owned this spice)</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><em></em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;">3 Teaspoons of Oregano.<em>(unsure of cost, we already owned this spice)</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><em></em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;">3 Teaspoons of Italian seasonings.<em>(unsure of cost, we already owned this spice)</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><em></em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;">2 Teaspoons of Kosher salt.<em>(unsure of cost, we already owned this spice)</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;">(2) Packets of spaghetti seasonings. <em>($1.01 for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">McCormicks</span> = $2.02)</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><em></em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><strong><br /><br />Total: $10.50 for (10) jar size portions.</strong> </p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><strong><br /><br />Personal Notes:</strong> We make several cold weather dinner dishes that call for tomato sauce. Normally with coupons I can purchase sauce for $1-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">ish</span> per jar pretty easily. But what I like about the homemade sauce is that it magically seems <em>*special*</em>! The 30 minutes that it took me to prep <em>and</em> package the sauce was time well spent!</p><strong><em><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><br /><br />***Thank you Beth and Patrick for sharing your yummy recipe with our family!</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 0px 10px; display: inline; height: 0px; overflow: visible;"><br /></p></em></strong></span></div>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-75675564444565536752010-10-04T09:52:00.003-04:002010-10-14T17:43:51.486-04:00Comfort Food<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Note:</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> It seems the website has recently changed, and so I will find my printed copy of the recipe and will add the ingredient list/directions asap! Sorry for the confusion! </span><br /><br />Last week, as the cool crisp air settled in for good, I got the hankering for some piping hot comfort food <span style="font-style: italic;">(can I get an amen?)</span>. I happen to LOVE Macaroni and Cheese, passionately, especially Stouffer's brand- but I hate finding freezer space for the family sized tray, plus homemade is almost always a healthier option!<br /><br />So I did what any sensible, well stockpiled on pasta and cheese bargaineer shopper would do, I Googled "Stouffer's knock off Mac & Cheese!" Brilliant, yes, I know!<br /><br />I came across a website called <a href="http://www.topsecretrecipes.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Top Secret Recipes</span></a>, and inside I found a plethera of brand name recipes as well as restaurant favorites... including a recipe for Stouffer's Mac & Cheese!<br /><br />Last week I made my first attempt a recreating the famous Mac & Cheese, and it was a BIG hit!<br />The ingredients are simple; milk, flour, butter, salt, pasta and cheese, glorious $.17/brick from Meijer, Kraft cheese!!!<br /><br />The recipe and simple directions can be found right <a href="http://www.topsecretrecipes.com/Stouffers-Macaroni-and-Cheese-Recipe.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here!</span></a><br /><br />I'm thinking that I may make a double batch of the sauce next time, freezing them individually, and then I can thaw and boil the pasta when I've acquired a M&C hankering- getting dinner to the table much faster than a frozen pan!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What do YOU think? Will this homemade version of M&C hit YOUR spot?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-8725217585555631382010-09-24T11:13:00.002-04:002010-09-24T11:19:03.544-04:00Updating:I've just updated the Local Ladies section on my right sidebar. These Michigan bloggers are FANTASTIC in bringing you and I the most current and up to date information for local deals! <span style="font-style: italic;">(Thanks again ladies, my wallet sincerely thanks you!!!)</span><br /><br />In recent months I have become addicted to Facebook, and I'm hopeful that YOU, as readers, could shine some light on some of YOUR favorite Facebook deal sites! <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Where do YOU peek on Facebook?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-18139076448311374192010-09-24T11:08:00.002-04:002010-09-24T11:12:57.633-04:00"Local Ladies:" Meet Shopping Cart Diva's<p>Meet another 'Local Lady:'<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Sarah, the blog author of<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a href="http://www.couponsequalcash.com/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></a></span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><a href="http://www.shoppingcartdivas.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shopping Cart Diva's </span></a><span style="font-style: italic;">(.com), </span>is a Michigan blogger who loves to share information about HOT online deals as well as local match-ups and she also posts frequently on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Davison-MI/Shopping-Cart-Divas/122936281084605">Facebook!</a><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"></span></span></p><p>Sarah, thank you for taking the time to help others to save BIG!<br /></p>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-75379691463407269502010-09-20T08:37:00.003-04:002010-09-20T08:50:39.981-04:00Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvErAz_Ix2FkoFr_8rAMT-SaxAJfvLAFidClKqDOhxWRuyPVKX6xFijvAQIfLvRArRef58C9QmFs6whST0T0nGk1Y8Ty1JFZd7vP1AN6tD7Hs2ko5TDPL0SrUSS7XtPP4XAEOa1mKhFs/s1600/IMG_8068.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvErAz_Ix2FkoFr_8rAMT-SaxAJfvLAFidClKqDOhxWRuyPVKX6xFijvAQIfLvRArRef58C9QmFs6whST0T0nGk1Y8Ty1JFZd7vP1AN6tD7Hs2ko5TDPL0SrUSS7XtPP4XAEOa1mKhFs/s400/IMG_8068.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518976888283439394" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins</span><br />Courtesy of <a href="http://www.allrecipes.com/">AllRecipes.com</a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients:</span><br />3/4 c. sugar<br />1/4 c. vegetable oil<br />2 eggs<br />3/4 c. <a href="http://www.sharpenyourscissors.net/2010/09/roasting-pie-pumpkin.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">pumpkin puree</span></a><br />1/4 c. water<br />1 1/2 c. flour<br />3/4 t. baking powder<br />1/2 t. baking soda<br />1/2 t. cinnamon<br />1/4 t. salt<br />1/4 t. nutmeg<br />1/2 c. chocolate chips<br /><br />*Yep, that does seem like a long list of ingredients, but other than pumpkin puree and nutmeg, these rest of these ingredients are pretty standardly found in any kitchen!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Directions:</span><br />Preheat oven to 400*. Lightly spray muffin pan or use paper liners.<br /><br />Mix sugar, oil and eggs and then add the pumpkin and the water. In a separate bowl mix together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices and salt. Add the wet mixture to the dry mixture followed by the chocolate chips.<br /><br />Fill muffin cups 2/3 full and bake for 20-25 minutes. This recipe makes 12 traditional size muffins or 24 mini muffins!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Personal Note:</span><br />I am in LOVE with these muffins not only because they are easy to make and are filled with chocolate, but especially because they are super tasty <span style="font-style: italic;">(and I don't like pumpkin pie... at all!!!) </span>and THEY DO NOT CRUMBLE INTO A MILLION PIECES WHEN YOU EAT THEM!!! <span style="font-style: italic;">(Toddlers, the floor and muffins are often a tough combination... wink!)</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-69904072947332049622010-09-16T13:08:00.014-04:002010-09-22T10:54:00.379-04:00Roasting a Pie Pumpkin<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZPV5vFDoEshjSfLHRTuGmk_o0Xi6ei9uVhPBYac4nTiFq2lMkgdn5ZtEovo21PVLjfiIg_vYXLvlQ82eGS1okafwWitWov4BkO9XN88BchbUq1460_G0gsbtrsKHcpJ1ugRmcmRZ_NQ/s1600/IMG_8048.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZPV5vFDoEshjSfLHRTuGmk_o0Xi6ei9uVhPBYac4nTiFq2lMkgdn5ZtEovo21PVLjfiIg_vYXLvlQ82eGS1okafwWitWov4BkO9XN88BchbUq1460_G0gsbtrsKHcpJ1ugRmcmRZ_NQ/s400/IMG_8048.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560916726695026" border="0" /></a>Here is the final product from my <a href="http://www.sharpenyourscissors.net/2010/08/garden-update.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">surprise plant</span></a> that our neighborhood squirrel hid in our front flower bed. Hey, the squirrel may have destroyed my son's favorite little pumpkin in 2009, but he definitely made up for it in 2010!<br /><br />Since our pumpkin ripened a little bit early, I decided to go ahead and bake it, rather than parking it on the porch for another squirrel to devour! Plus I have always wanted to try to make <a href="http://www.sharpenyourscissors.net/2010/09/pumpkin-chocolate-chip-muffins.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">pumpkin chocolate chip muffins</span></a> <span style="font-style: italic;">(miniature, of course)</span> and I've heard that the pumpkin shortage of 2009 is lingering into 2010- so what better time to try my hand at pumpkin roasting!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznTLCveQ4Fky2xYSIfH_ULyCWEe0EOsO8DmvINDbL2Sc4YhJxOJz4qkN366BEfYTjymtb6nS1SBmG-W7lEZR5SFfegdcvBfLruMe19NeQvwQ8Kf87c9Q2vLZkyna-38nRD9tkJ_dRD3A/s1600/IMG_8050.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznTLCveQ4Fky2xYSIfH_ULyCWEe0EOsO8DmvINDbL2Sc4YhJxOJz4qkN366BEfYTjymtb6nS1SBmG-W7lEZR5SFfegdcvBfLruMe19NeQvwQ8Kf87c9Q2vLZkyna-38nRD9tkJ_dRD3A/s400/IMG_8050.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560822750963858" border="0" /></a> First I washed our pumpkin and cut it in half.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKICMOz0fajEM0S2uxTyde-VU2z1XJ9z4yvUk3xBZaHOoXxSo1Nb1Kfv7-6Opy-RL9qN5X67yXbpU0zglFH3mQN3mLHrUEbguuOvKW-61gGzdkZ9Ft40ymGvB4m_q4PBz1xivQ4I6Id6A/s1600/IMG_8051.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKICMOz0fajEM0S2uxTyde-VU2z1XJ9z4yvUk3xBZaHOoXxSo1Nb1Kfv7-6Opy-RL9qN5X67yXbpU0zglFH3mQN3mLHrUEbguuOvKW-61gGzdkZ9Ft40ymGvB4m_q4PBz1xivQ4I6Id6A/s400/IMG_8051.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560726103949362" border="0" /></a>Next, I scooped out the seeds and inner membranes- just like caring for ol' Jack!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3jfUt3ZIPAinTdoRNDELDQAk0jxeFXMxHZklhrht4GMyimgD8GhDOUlS9JbjbrXYCQi0mCdHzMPsBA-RAZuL9b256VNlRc-3O3Ob7JUt8qpcLjCl0Qe1Y3uYr1gvM5hWbk3CIPwv8v_g/s1600/IMG_8053.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3jfUt3ZIPAinTdoRNDELDQAk0jxeFXMxHZklhrht4GMyimgD8GhDOUlS9JbjbrXYCQi0mCdHzMPsBA-RAZuL9b256VNlRc-3O3Ob7JUt8qpcLjCl0Qe1Y3uYr1gvM5hWbk3CIPwv8v_g/s400/IMG_8053.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560638076453762" border="0" /></a>And since I'm already aware that growing pumpkins are fun and rewarding, I saved a few seeds to drop into my garden next year!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Gyg2iPcodgEoNfcseF8op0Hf3_JCP06jbHdGgLGZkXrQ3kRFIrCrgNGqaimLDBEIxxjkeTG6peU92VbzT-zrYiMbZFiObBLONkDaE1wqxlYoMf1rG6FTM-pphr6355IiwK3miI99Nqs/s1600/IMG_8052.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Gyg2iPcodgEoNfcseF8op0Hf3_JCP06jbHdGgLGZkXrQ3kRFIrCrgNGqaimLDBEIxxjkeTG6peU92VbzT-zrYiMbZFiObBLONkDaE1wqxlYoMf1rG6FTM-pphr6355IiwK3miI99Nqs/s400/IMG_8052.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560530313668482" border="0" /></a>I removed the stem, and placed the flesh sides down on a cookie sheet lined with foil. Bake at 375* for 1.5 hours.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu2DDI-l92CZ53ON8ih8fSZP97RYv8jF-CiTfcoEeiakqKgYy2d0E65tOoTL9ULanAdot5Zf-svUuuQYik4lkF6B4UnjyxgpZfUJ2XwiU-RBbYwwsCPTi0ikWMqTPNgOJ859NCO-2l5zU/s1600/IMG_8055.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu2DDI-l92CZ53ON8ih8fSZP97RYv8jF-CiTfcoEeiakqKgYy2d0E65tOoTL9ULanAdot5Zf-svUuuQYik4lkF6B4UnjyxgpZfUJ2XwiU-RBbYwwsCPTi0ikWMqTPNgOJ859NCO-2l5zU/s400/IMG_8055.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560434960945378" border="0" /></a>The scent is amazing! This is what the pumpkin looked like coming out of the oven!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqL5eDVofCVTUXzwOAHleHs44eERI2aMNAy8EYmT19MajpywtkBF_PKcLIVHUVHTKvS3yu1COycfY5NkrbdemeB3ZphJDglA3eETM-G1cM7EtZAJw0WwP7bmAeGezN9AxE8WEVWUhC8Y/s1600/IMG_8056.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqL5eDVofCVTUXzwOAHleHs44eERI2aMNAy8EYmT19MajpywtkBF_PKcLIVHUVHTKvS3yu1COycfY5NkrbdemeB3ZphJDglA3eETM-G1cM7EtZAJw0WwP7bmAeGezN9AxE8WEVWUhC8Y/s400/IMG_8056.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560335885344818" border="0" /></a>Beautifully baked!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPunvMmWmnrsRXSNwYJdoouoIUF6AFShSEiaObX5gqABezJFFp-XwhGetBZIASy_avzve-HZLGjVXShIOdDZaZZjx-iflEz1gfGXvJ-cbBAByHT2YN28PGXoF-NBYwQhWZ8zDb4nj-PO0/s1600/IMG_8059.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPunvMmWmnrsRXSNwYJdoouoIUF6AFShSEiaObX5gqABezJFFp-XwhGetBZIASy_avzve-HZLGjVXShIOdDZaZZjx-iflEz1gfGXvJ-cbBAByHT2YN28PGXoF-NBYwQhWZ8zDb4nj-PO0/s400/IMG_8059.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560245523734610" border="0" /></a>The pumpkin flesh scoops from the pumpkin skin so easily!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9WV1RyDzDahLoxISY0UiuaRfxPfT1W1QEdYy8qXkaq6ocN4HUZrLVOXAWfhYTfW5wrb0k-_AD8uSE2RilpsmlI98q6ZE8OyoEp_r9FGJfFEbHImNhe9zEtV2-OJcm_28EwkvJ3fCpz0c/s1600/IMG_8060.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9WV1RyDzDahLoxISY0UiuaRfxPfT1W1QEdYy8qXkaq6ocN4HUZrLVOXAWfhYTfW5wrb0k-_AD8uSE2RilpsmlI98q6ZE8OyoEp_r9FGJfFEbHImNhe9zEtV2-OJcm_28EwkvJ3fCpz0c/s400/IMG_8060.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517560127673374738" border="0" /></a>Seriously, every last bit of pumpkin flesh is yours for the baking!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6q9Ht0Orkqpv9GnokgbfPCc-puLcbE2-mzEeqDcFKiOATnx6I06FcV2PSyKUMbsGmLPq7Ea-s6ZUFChcEEhjKGYjg09JhF_Fr0yv_mlAVYNg3VtmKDDdSStjIEp63Z620czTW6R9ubRo/s1600/IMG_8064.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6q9Ht0Orkqpv9GnokgbfPCc-puLcbE2-mzEeqDcFKiOATnx6I06FcV2PSyKUMbsGmLPq7Ea-s6ZUFChcEEhjKGYjg09JhF_Fr0yv_mlAVYNg3VtmKDDdSStjIEp63Z620czTW6R9ubRo/s400/IMG_8064.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517559966322742786" border="0" /></a>Lastly, I pureed the pumpkin,<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNmh_PSB71__GIe2OvYm0JoZQco9JI7mFRsorRvBvPLj3SuPFB5fWbB7WgsigVVHLKQhTaK-NzMa3uMMcJLltDTHhaFh9eQVHN0cqXlF5ZCJLwnstvI1Sk7jC0XnUDF5tbEo9QCqDA_A/s1600/IMG_8066.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNmh_PSB71__GIe2OvYm0JoZQco9JI7mFRsorRvBvPLj3SuPFB5fWbB7WgsigVVHLKQhTaK-NzMa3uMMcJLltDTHhaFh9eQVHN0cqXlF5ZCJLwnstvI1Sk7jC0XnUDF5tbEo9QCqDA_A/s400/IMG_8066.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517559543192387394" border="0" /></a>and packed it <span style="font-style: italic;">(pre-measured for my muffin recipe, of course)</span> in freezable portions for ready to bake goodness!<br /><br />Note: My average sized pumpkin yielded 4 cups of pumpkin puree, about 1/2 a cup more than a traditional sized can of pumpkin puree.<br /><br />I also picked up a couple of pie pumpkins at the local farmer's market for $1 each. I have also seen them at the local grocery store for $2 each!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Whatd'ya think? Will YOU roast your own pie pumpkin this year?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-16749940786035499052010-09-11T11:30:00.001-04:002010-09-11T11:37:57.797-04:00Perfect Day For...<div align="center"><strong>Apple Crisp is so YUMMY!<br />(Originally posted Fall 2009)<br /></strong></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryK5zR6ME2S9F-I3QcjwTMHeiYFlNeAnYfDBYGkMb5PPGa25gTjb-zmSKpYXaYEoU0b5jhoQcWhPJej5V8W7CRKI0DuTxmRuxzIZR0Jxp3zNGXgg47jT02oNj2qrfxFoa-FoxKTjUrj4/s1600-h/October.+20.2009+065.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396379524309623106" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryK5zR6ME2S9F-I3QcjwTMHeiYFlNeAnYfDBYGkMb5PPGa25gTjb-zmSKpYXaYEoU0b5jhoQcWhPJej5V8W7CRKI0DuTxmRuxzIZR0Jxp3zNGXgg47jT02oNj2qrfxFoa-FoxKTjUrj4/s400/October.+20.2009+065.jpg" border="0" /></a> <strong>I decided to bring Apple Crisp to our weekly <a href="http://www.242community.com/">Life Group </a>meeting</strong>, and a single batch <em>(serves 6)</em> would NEVER be enough... so I <strong>doubled the recipe</strong>.<br /><br /><strong>I washed, peeled, quartered and sliced 16 medium sized apples.</strong><br /><strong><br /></strong><strong></strong><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUt5TT54Gf6BTS5pI-t8Kye5UXMwgmzWqgwMyberf9UOvVvmDXvtRFk5i8r5H3rWrEFeFQY6-OKsh8nZrRRNENF8-fX4nFjwzhqUY_ttmlHyziZP_ogPm27zLeVAALjbZywddGIw1f7bs/s1600-h/October.+20.2009+066.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396379276041705330" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUt5TT54Gf6BTS5pI-t8Kye5UXMwgmzWqgwMyberf9UOvVvmDXvtRFk5i8r5H3rWrEFeFQY6-OKsh8nZrRRNENF8-fX4nFjwzhqUY_ttmlHyziZP_ogPm27zLeVAALjbZywddGIw1f7bs/s400/October.+20.2009+066.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong> I placed all of my apple slices in a lightly sprayed 9 x 13.</strong> </div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsn7oyivCqj2yTRv5QBr1ohpe_H6g3fw8wNSwv6QwOOsrtqyzPcuLJTUHVEsbXw0fcTX-X7ueI7dv2sti5JAobbD6dc0cDMemi0S4jYt6ZrXXvvTScO-VczjzmCkTnLr6oVYhJUfOFTbc/s1600-h/October.+20.2009+069.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396379075663982338" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsn7oyivCqj2yTRv5QBr1ohpe_H6g3fw8wNSwv6QwOOsrtqyzPcuLJTUHVEsbXw0fcTX-X7ueI7dv2sti5JAobbD6dc0cDMemi0S4jYt6ZrXXvvTScO-VczjzmCkTnLr6oVYhJUfOFTbc/s400/October.+20.2009+069.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong> Since I had only planned to make a single batch, I had only set one stick of butter out on the counter to come to room temperature. I pulled a second stick from the freezer and I microwaved it on defrost</strong> <em>(watching carefully for a puddle to start forming from the inside)</em> until the butter nearly became room temperature. <em>(tricky, tricky!)</em></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1kikswXuEKnMy7XjZDE3ZtcauL9QgNj52m87dW0r-FzmjvRFK_l2hjQ8YKghAiGpUcFt2CIuG2qEO7jbsQIydIjqwtvMLIbE7pHL3KeoKO2Du8dnHp3PQeqyfoe9TUd2nEHEaHI7Dk8/s1600-h/October.+20.2009+070.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396378906298530786" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1kikswXuEKnMy7XjZDE3ZtcauL9QgNj52m87dW0r-FzmjvRFK_l2hjQ8YKghAiGpUcFt2CIuG2qEO7jbsQIydIjqwtvMLIbE7pHL3KeoKO2Du8dnHp3PQeqyfoe9TUd2nEHEaHI7Dk8/s400/October.+20.2009+070.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong> I then measured 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar</strong> <em>(3/4 cup per batch)-</em> but my brown sugar had a few lumps. So I put my brown sugar in the microwave for 30 seconds and I was easily able to smush my lumps into the standard brown sugar consistency. <em>(More tricky-ness!!!)</em></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAukpsHAipXoDrJPT3tQE01bV2ED4G6smvmZG9oCDWap8qHIsCY-8-bTt-EFtqpKvNrBGcsbzmBb5M4KhLatpsfsGPwSM__5Qdh5RS0iA0xJjpyNqpPaqGuRXusL6d0QnIi84418CZe2k/s1600-h/October.+20.2009+073.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396378737994714338" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAukpsHAipXoDrJPT3tQE01bV2ED4G6smvmZG9oCDWap8qHIsCY-8-bTt-EFtqpKvNrBGcsbzmBb5M4KhLatpsfsGPwSM__5Qdh5RS0iA0xJjpyNqpPaqGuRXusL6d0QnIi84418CZe2k/s400/October.+20.2009+073.jpg" border="0" /></a> <strong>Next, I added my two sticks of butter, 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1 cup of quick-cooking oats, cinnamon and vanilla to taste!</strong></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUDRC9UUYTij9rKxmLNKMVIgyRD67OkluXD6Zc1OcfqCog5Egjy8th0emXwjr3go5rcIzMrzHRQrD4J23FpH9yaCHXf6QjAOuiSmzuyjq-gCPnET66lm1lpZZcq_IjnV1tcKGYs3sHcY/s1600-h/October.+20.2009+074.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396378490844355954" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUDRC9UUYTij9rKxmLNKMVIgyRD67OkluXD6Zc1OcfqCog5Egjy8th0emXwjr3go5rcIzMrzHRQrD4J23FpH9yaCHXf6QjAOuiSmzuyjq-gCPnET66lm1lpZZcq_IjnV1tcKGYs3sHcY/s400/October.+20.2009+074.jpg" border="0" /></a> <strong>Apple Crisp is not a beautiful dessert,</strong> especially pre-baked in this picture! But all 12 servings were consumed before I could snap a final picture! Hmmm, maybe I'll have to bake this again later this week, especially while apples are inexpensive and in season!!!</div><div> </div><div><strong><br />Recipe Recap:</strong> <em>(single recipe version, serves 6)</em></div><div><strong>4-6 Apples. Core, skin, quarter and slice.</strong></div><div><strong>3/4 Cup all-purpose flour.</strong></div><div><strong>1/2 Cup quick oats.</strong></div><div><strong>3/4 Cup brown sugar.</strong></div><div><strong>1 Stick of butter.</strong></div><div><strong>1 Teaspoon cinnamon</strong></div><div><strong>1 Teaspoon vanilla</strong></div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong><br />*Layer as instructed above. Bake at 375* for 30 minutes.</strong></div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong><br />If you think you'd enjoy my Apple Crisp, check out my home made</strong><a href="http://www.sharpenyourscissors.net/2009/09/homemade-applepear-sauce.html"><strong> Apple/Pear sauce</strong></a><strong>!</strong></div>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-46704064063633135252010-09-07T22:25:00.003-04:002010-09-07T22:40:45.655-04:00Stocking Up?Since I began spending coupons in March of 2008, I've always followed a simple coupon spending strategy to save my family time and money- I look for 1-5 items to stockpile weekly. If I continually add fresh <span style="font-style: italic;">(rock-bottom priced) </span>items to our at home stash each week, my weekly spending doesn't ever need to break the bank, or cause me to unload an unearthly amount of grocery bags!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">This week I'm stocking up on these items:<br /><br />1. Ziploc's- Meijer </span><span style="font-style: italic;">(<a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com/meijer-matchups-september-5-11-2010/">Courtesy of Bargains to Bounty</a>)</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><strong><br />$1.89 Ziploc Slider Bags</strong> *NEW*<br /><p> <em>-$1.00/2 Ziploc Slider Bags coupon (from 7-25 SS), </em>use 2<br /><a href="http://widget.mealbox.meijer.com/meijer-mealbox/landing/coupon/1414235" target="_blank"><em>-$1.50/2 Meijer Mealbox printable coupon</em></a>, use 2 <span style="font-style: italic;">(note: may not scan properly)</span><br /><strong>$0.64</strong> each when you buy 4 with coupons<br />Bonus: Buy 3 or more in one transaction, get a $2.00 checkout coupon valid on your next order.<br /><strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 128, 0);">$0.14</span></strong> each when you buy 2 with coupon and checkout coupon savings – thanks, Chrys!</p> <p><strong>$2.50 Ziploc Containers</strong>, 2-6 ct<span style="font-style: italic;"> (regular price)</span> *NEW*<br /><em>-$1.50/2 Ziploc Containers coupon (from 7-25 or 8-8 SS)<br /></em><a href="http://widget.mealbox.meijer.com/meijer-mealbox/landing/coupon/1414235" target="_blank"><em>-$1.50/2 Meijer Mealbox printable coupon</em></a> <span style="font-style: italic;">(note: may not scan properly)</span><br /><strong>$1.00</strong> each when you buy 2 with coupons<br />Bonus: Buy 2 or more in one transaction, get a $1.50 checkout coupon valid on your next order.<br /><strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 128, 0);">$0.25</span></strong> each when you buy 2 with coupon and checkout coupon savings – thanks, Chrys!<br /></p><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />2. Campbell's Cooking Soups- Meijer</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;">(<a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com/meijer-matchups-september-5-11-2010/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">courtesy of Bargains to Bounty</span></a>)</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><strong><br />$0.75 Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup</strong>, 10.75 oz original only<br /><em><a href="http://www.campbellskitchen.com/coupon.aspx" target="_blank">-$0.50/2 Campbell’s Great for Cooking Soups printable coupon</a></em><br /><strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 128, 0);">$0.25</span></strong> each when you buy 2 with coupon<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />3. Pillsbury Pie Crusts- Meijer</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;">(<a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com/meijer-matchups-september-5-11-2010/">Courtesy of Bargains to Bounty</a>)</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><br /><strong>$1.89 Pillsbury Pie Crusts</strong>, 14.1 oz<br /><em><a href="http://lm.logicalmedia.com/z/12918/CD7005/" target="_blank">-$0.50/2 Pie Crusts printable coupon</a><br /></em><strong>$1.39</strong> each when you buy 2 with coupon <br />Bonus: Buy 4 in one transaction, get $1.00 checkout coupon valid on your next order.<br /><strong>$1.14</strong> each after checkout coupon savings <br />Excellent for making <a href="http://clipandcook.blogspot.com/2009/12/quiche.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quiche</span></a> or <a href="http://clipandcook.blogspot.com/2009/12/chicken-pot-pie.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chicken Pot Pie </span></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">4. Dial Hand Soap- Kroger</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;">(<a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com/kroger-september-7-12-2010/">Courtesy of Bargains to Bounty</a>)</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><strong><br />$1.00 Dial Liquid Hand Soap</strong>, 7.5-11.25 oz <strong>or Dial Bar Soap</strong>, 2 pk <span style="font-style: italic;">(through Sept 12)</span><br /><em>-$0.35/1 Dial coupon (from 8-15 RP)</em><br /><strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 128, 0);">$0.30</span></strong> after couponLaura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-73084428655836559732010-09-04T08:39:00.002-04:002010-09-04T08:42:44.771-04:00Insert Alert!!!Do <span style="font-weight: bold;">NOT</span> stop at the drug store, dollar store, grocery store or gas station to pick up Sunday papers this weekend- you will be sadly disappointed! <br /><br />Instead, rejoice that this holiday weekend's break from new coupons, allows you to organize the coupons that you already have in your stash!<br /><br />Happy long weekend!!!Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-26608823748065021532010-09-01T11:42:00.002-04:002010-09-01T11:45:43.886-04:00Stocking Up?Since I began spending coupons in March of 2008, I've always followed a simple coupon spending strategy to save my family time and money- I look for 1-5 items to stockpile weekly. If I continually add fresh <span style="font-style: italic;">(rock-bottom priced) </span>items to our at home stash each week, my weekly spending doesn't ever need to break the bank, or cause me to unload an unearthly amount of grocery bags!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">This week I'm stocking up on these items:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1. Capri Sun juice pouches- Meijer</span> <a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com/meijer-matchups-august-29-september-4-2010/"><span style="font-style: italic;"> (Courtesy of Bargains to Bounty)</span><br /></a><br /><strong>$1.59 Capri Sun</strong>, 10 ct pouches – Original, Roarin’ Waters, Coolers or Sunrise<br />Bonus <span style="font-style: italic;">(as shown in ad)</span>: Buy 4 or more in one transaction, get a $2.00 checkout coupon valid on your next order. Limit 1 per transaction.<br /><strong>$1.09</strong> each when you buy 4 after checkout coupon savings <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2. Kraft cheese- Meijer</span> <a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com/meijer-matchups-august-29-september-4-2010/"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Courtesy of Bargains to Bounty)</span></a><br /><p><strong>$1.67 Kraft Shredded Cheese, Chunks, Cubes or Crumbles,</strong> 5-8 oz<br /><a href="http://print.coupons.com/Couponweb/Offers.aspx?pid=14552&nid=20&zid=bg78" target="_blank"><em>-$1.00/2 Kraft Chunk Cheese printable coupon</em></a><br /><strong>$1.17</strong> each when you buy 2 with coupon<br />Bonus: Buy $15.00 in any combination of qualifying items including Kraft Chunk cheese between and get a $5.00 checkout coupon valid on your next order. See complete details in the Catalina Offers below. </p> <blockquote><p>Buy 9 Kraft Chunk Cheese = $15.00<br />Use 4 <em>$1.00/2 Chunk Cheese coupons</em> = (-$4.00)<br />Pay $11.00, get a $5.00 checkout coupon valid on your next order.<br />Final Cost: 9 for $6.00 (<strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 128, 0);">$0.67</span></strong> each!) Thanks, Jen! <br /></p></blockquote><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-54077302022556782502010-08-29T07:34:00.002-04:002010-08-29T07:39:02.218-04:00Sunday SurveyAre you taking these last days <span style="font-style: italic;">(so dramatic sounding)</span> of Summer to think about yummy food for the Winter?<br /><br />I've been <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">vacuum</span> sealing fresh veggies to enjoy in the dead of winter! Produce is so inexpensive NOW compared to several months from now!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Are YOU planning for later?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-65811306258845820432010-08-24T20:19:00.003-04:002010-08-24T20:36:18.055-04:00Stocking Up?I've decided to switch up my Grocery Game Plans just a little bit! <span style="font-style: italic;">(Confession: I'm pregnant, and prefer napping to blogging in the afternoon!)</span> <br /><br />Since I began spending coupons in March of 2008, I've always followed a simple coupon spending strategy to save my family time and money- I look for 1-5 items to stockpile weekly. If I continually add fresh <span style="font-style: italic;">(rock-bottom priced) </span>items to our at home stash each week, my weekly spending doesn't ever need to break the bank, or cause me to unload an unearthly amount of grocery bags!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">This week I'm stocking up on these items:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1. Ziploc bags- Meijer</span><br /><br /><strong style="font-style: italic;">$2.00 Ziploc Bags</strong><span style="font-style: italic;">, 15-20 ct freezer, 20-25 ct storage or 100 ct sandwich</span><br /> <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://widget.mealbox.meijer.com/meijer-mealbox/landing/coupon/1414235" target="_blank"><em>-$1.50/2 Meijer Mealbox printable coupon</em></a><br /> <em style="font-style: italic;">-$0.40/1 Ziploc Bags coupon (from 7-25 SS)</em><span style="font-style: italic;">, use 2</span><em style="font-style: italic;"> </em><span style="font-style: italic;">or</span><em style="font-style: italic;"> $1.00/2 coupon (from 7-25 or 8-8 SS or <a href="http://enlnks.com/aff_c?offer_id=118&aff_id=25" target="_blank">printable here</a> or <a href="http://www.boxtops4education.com/earn/clip/Coupons.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>), </em><span style="font-style: italic;">use 1</span><br /> <span style="color: rgb(0, 128, 0); font-style: italic;"><strong>$0.45</strong></span><span style="font-style: italic;"> or </span><strong style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 128, 0);">$0.75</span></strong><span style="font-style: italic;"> each when you buy 2 with coupons</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Bonus: Enter 2 Ziploc UPC codes to get a </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.ziploc.com/pages/OffersandPromotions.aspx" target="_blank">FREE Back to School Menu Plan Booklet</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> from Ziploc and Taste of Home. </span> <br /><br />***I found peelie coupons on the center aisle display, buy two get one FREE!!!<br /><br />Courtesy of <a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bargains to Bounty</span></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2. Dial hand soap- Kroger</span><br /><br /><strong style="font-style: italic;">$1.00 Dial Liquid Hand Soap</strong><span style="font-style: italic;">, 7.5-11.25 oz </span><strong style="font-style: italic;">or Dial Bar Soap</strong><span style="font-style: italic;">, 2 pk</span><br /> <em style="font-style: italic;">-$0.35/1 Dial coupon (from 8-15 RP)</em><br /> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 128, 0);">$0.30</span></strong><span style="font-style: italic;"> after coupon </span><br /><br />Courtesy of <a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bargains to Bounty</span></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3. Cottonelle toilet paper- Rite Aid</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Buy 4 @ $6.49 each = $25.96</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Use $5/$25 coupon here = $20.96</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Use (4) $1/1 coupons from 8/15 SS or </span><a style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/All-You-1-year/dp/B000W3MB5M?ie=UTF8&tag=spectasaving-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">July All You magazine</a><img alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=spectasaving-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000W3MB5M" style="border: medium none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px ! important; font-style: italic;" border="0" height="1" width="1" /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Use $1/1 </span><a style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank" href="http://my.adperk.com/offer/d30b50da#vo">August Video Values coupon</a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Pay $15.96</span><span style="color: red; font-style: italic;"><br />Get $10 in SCR = $5.96 or just $1.49 per 12 pack!!</span><br /><br />Courtesy of <a href="http://www.spectacularsavings.net"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spectacular Savings</span></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What are YOU stocking up on this week?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-40931195450147729942010-08-23T20:53:00.001-04:002010-08-23T20:55:34.065-04:00Resuming PostsI surprised myself by choosing to detox from my laptop this weekend, while we were out of town with friends... I am officially back, and will post a NEW version of the weekly game plans ASAP!Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-26359737008141266062010-08-19T16:26:00.003-04:002010-08-19T16:30:43.258-04:00Do You Agree?Trent, the blog author of <a href="http://www.thesimpledollar.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Simple Dollar</span></a>, has written a post about how HE spends coupons. Trent first decides what his family's needs are on a given week, and then he looks for coupons to bring down the cost of those items. I personally shop the sales with coupons and practice the art of wise stockpiling simply what my family will use! <a href="http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2010/08/19/the-challenge-of-couponing/"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> (Read his short article here!)</span></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Which coupon spending technique do YOU use?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-86615735224339765472010-08-19T08:04:00.002-04:002010-08-19T08:08:59.308-04:00Newsprint VS. PrintablesJolyn, the blog author of <a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bargains to Bounty</span></a>, has a great article about <a href="http://www.bargainstobounty.com/reader-q-a-why-should-i-buy-a-newspaper-when-i-can-print-coupons/#comment-8804"><span style="font-weight: bold;">the many benefits to purchasing newspaper coupons on Sunday</span></a> instead of simply relying on Internet printable coupons!Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-54188383859883684912010-08-18T14:08:00.003-04:002010-08-18T14:27:07.525-04:00Want-A-Peek Wednesday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn3uoQ803sIubpugG5GsBPMbQFkZam8oz3AwhXmh9GusFBRwV07vjkbUq3O1E-lW0yHsgDwvBN0eIJlGTBUjvKNBK9TohlOJ6pNvd8UKD5WvGLG4heBuV64c-dQx-a9SY4wHfbMtyv6mM/s1600/IMG_7987.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn3uoQ803sIubpugG5GsBPMbQFkZam8oz3AwhXmh9GusFBRwV07vjkbUq3O1E-lW0yHsgDwvBN0eIJlGTBUjvKNBK9TohlOJ6pNvd8UKD5WvGLG4heBuV64c-dQx-a9SY4wHfbMtyv6mM/s400/IMG_7987.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506813446422728258" border="0" /></a>Yep, I may very well be the coolest Mom ever for purchasing Toy Story themed Kleenex!!<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span><span>*Grapes and apples not pictured!</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Meijer:</span><br />Grocery Total: $67.07<br />Spent: $30.35<br />Saved: $36.77<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Items purchased with coupons:</span><br />KEY: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">MFC</span></span></span></span>= Manufacturer's coupon, MBC= Store coupon, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">IP</span></span></span></span>= Internet printable coupon.<br /><br />Kleenex (bless you... MFC), Breakstone sour cream (IP), Dole fruit (MFC & MBC), Stouffer's Mac & Cheese- purchased in a weak moment because I LOVE this stuff!!! (IP & MBC)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What are YOU purchasing this week?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-89170812632623866882010-08-17T10:07:00.002-04:002010-08-17T10:09:41.525-04:00Trent's List:Trent, the blog author of <a href="http://www.thesimpledollar.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Simple Dollar</span></a>, has written a spectacular list of his <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2010/08/17/48-things-frugality-has-taught-me/">top 48 things that he LOVES about being wise with his spending! </a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What would YOU add to the list, or what were your favorite additions to Trent's list?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-47218118780965855412010-08-17T09:55:00.003-04:002010-08-17T10:03:26.960-04:00Crayola's Coming Out of Your Ears?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFQxXFDlitk_x-eOoND9KdC9suCQw29GfAS8TkjIi19un9EHMwlEJPnT5agqQS8pRB142bHxf3qbKjHP-3-JUGGVVfTl5fwBxmKd4mGS2sc9VRcwUR5j5sX5ir9PlH4PcgKi37u-ynvg/s1600/December.3b.08+057.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFQxXFDlitk_x-eOoND9KdC9suCQw29GfAS8TkjIi19un9EHMwlEJPnT5agqQS8pRB142bHxf3qbKjHP-3-JUGGVVfTl5fwBxmKd4mGS2sc9VRcwUR5j5sX5ir9PlH4PcgKi37u-ynvg/s400/December.3b.08+057.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506377042647342498" border="0" /></a>Here's a quick peek into the table decor of my son's first birthday party, December 2008. I started planning the party well in advance, including picking up plenty of $.25 boxes of Crayola's the summer before. <br /><br />I LOVE coating party tables with the inexpensive paper place mats that you'd find in an old time restaurant- I pick up packs of 100 at Gordon Food Service for a couple of dollars <span style="font-style: italic;">($3-$4)</span>, and not do they look cute, define seating, but they help entertain party guests too! Kids of ALL ages love to color at the dinner table...wink!<br /><br />I've also included Crayola's and coloring books as gift toppers for Christmas and Birthday's, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">I'm super curious as to what YOU have creatively <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">repurposed</span> extra school supplies for!!! </span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-8150274017821220022010-08-15T08:06:00.002-04:002010-08-15T08:08:57.891-04:00Sunday Survey<span style="font-weight: bold;">Have YOU been raking in the SCHOOL SUPPLY deals lately?</span><br /><br />I have purchased glue, Crayola washable markers and crayons, and I'm hoping to sneak in some water colors and colored pencils...Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-5634626435924827342010-08-14T10:44:00.003-04:002010-08-14T13:20:44.055-04:00WHY Have I Neglected My Farmer's Market??? WHY?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJ2Z6_xlhw3i55GkK8pc83x6c9Kw-FN82HNTgirJkySZ_lFRcSEw9RMSyP1KsfUjaIaUYRru7BDGVS4UaONUQJcSIVaDLPx-Wd61-vVejS9e4HiJFznsiI1qgIvmJM6s28BIOVxeqmqw/s1600/IMG_7986.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJ2Z6_xlhw3i55GkK8pc83x6c9Kw-FN82HNTgirJkySZ_lFRcSEw9RMSyP1KsfUjaIaUYRru7BDGVS4UaONUQJcSIVaDLPx-Wd61-vVejS9e4HiJFznsiI1qgIvmJM6s28BIOVxeqmqw/s400/IMG_7986.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505276505113297602" border="0" /></a>Why have I not been attending my local Farmer's Market on Saturday mornings? Seriously!!!<br /><br />How much do you think I spent on all of this locally grown, fresh produce?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(I'll give you a hint: $12!!!!)</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-37443198343196796272010-08-11T12:52:00.001-04:002010-08-11T12:53:38.162-04:00I Have Yet to Shop this Week...<span style="font-weight: bold;">Since I haven't shopped yet this week- what have YOU been purchasing?</span>Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863110865991625393.post-82098500636536750592010-08-10T09:36:00.002-04:002010-08-10T09:39:16.272-04:00POP QuizI just found a very interesting quiz on <a href="http://www.pennilessparenting.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Penniless Parenting</span></a>!<br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.pennilessparenting.com/2010/08/quiz-how-frugal-are-you.html">How frugal are YOU?</a><br /><br />I'm considered to be Extremely Frugal...<br /><br />Take the quiz and leave a comment on what YOU are!Laura Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01164809658415173534noreply@blogger.com10