Free 5X7 Photo Book from Kodak (just pay shipping)

Kodak is offering a FREE 14 page 5X7 Autofill book thru 7/20. (Regular price $9.99) Additional pages are $.29 each. S&H $1.99

I am so far behind on organizing my pictures and I've been trying to work on them a little each day. Ordering prints with the intention of putting them in albums doesn't seem to be working for me. So, I try to find deals such as this to help cross off some pics off of my long, long, list.

Thanks, Common Sense with Money!

Summertime and the Living's Easy....

I know I haven't posted in awhile but it is summer and my kids are keeping me very busy!! Hope everyone is enjoying the summer and I want to wish everyone a wonderful Fourth of July weekend!

Quench your thirst without compromise. Get the FREE samples.

Taste for yourself how easy it is to turn good 'ole water into a naturally sweetened, low-calorie drink with FREE samples of Crystal light Pure Fitness flavor packets, exclusively from Vocalpoint. www.vocalpoint.com/purefitness

UPDATE: Children's Tylenol/Motrin Zyrtec Recall

If you missed it, I posted the link to the rebate form HERE.

FYI - I never received a call from a representative but I did receive the rebate check yesterday in the amount of $36 ( I had 4 bottles). Hope everyone else received their checks, too.

Disney Movie Rewards

Are you enrolled in the Disney Movie Rewards program? We've been a member since our first days of Baby Einstein movies. We've redeemed for some cute prizes in the past but we just cashed in for our "biggest" prize yet - a Snow White scooter! We don't even have to pay shipping. My daughter is so excited because only the big kids ride scooters at the park.

DMR is a reward program where you enter codes from Disney movies and cds. You can also gain points for seeing Disney movies in theaters. Needless to say, we have alot of those. If you're a member of DMR, what is the best prize you've redeemed for/saving for?

Fun Freebie

Sign up HERE to receive a coupon by mail for a free full sized Suave Professionals Shampoo. I just filled out the form and it was still valid but I don't think it will last long!

(Thanks, Couponing to Disney!)

Ballerina Girl

My daughter's dance recital is in a couple of weeks so I'm just tying up some loose ends. While a bouquet is standard for the ballerina, I like to give her a keepsake as well. I thought I'd share a cute find that I found on Etsy. Isn't it adorable? But, shhhh....It's a surprise!

My Boys

I read that May is National Pet Month and I thought I'd introduce my men-Mossimo & Kosimo!

College Savings for my PA Peeps

I thought I'd share this deal because it is one that I just missed out on and somebody should take advantage of it!

If you are thinking about starting a 529 for your children, check out the Pennsylvania 529 Gauranteed Savings Plan. While I am in no way trying to advise you financially, if this is something that you have looked into in the past and have been putting off, the enrollment fee is being waived if you enroll before May 29, 2010. ($50 savings)

For more info: www.makecollegepossible.com

Use Promo Code: 529DAY

Please remember that we have decided that this program is right for our family. I'm not trying to be your financial advisor!!

Free 8X10 Print Collage at Walgreens

Enter code GOODTHOUGHTS at check out and get an 8X10 photo collage FREE at Walgreens.com Photo Center. Offer ends Saturday, May 8. Use it for Mother's Day or to make any collage of your liking!

Children's Tylenol/Motrin/Zyrtec Recall Info

If you have any of the above medication that is included in the recent (4/30) recall and has not expired, there is now an online form you can submit for a coupon on a future purchase or for a refund. After submitting the form, you will be contacted by phone by a representative.

I have four bottles of Children's Tylenol! At least there is an online form rather than waiting for them to receive it by mail.

(Thanks to Couponing to Disney for the form link)

We got the Big Blue Envelope Yesterday!

We got the big blue envelope yesterday! If you Disney, you know this means serious count down mode! Yea!

20% Off Stride Rite Coupon

Need new summer shoes for the kids?

Print a 20% coupon off the purchase of $50 or more HERE. Use code SUN20 on striderite.com
Exp 5/13/10

Cute Stuffed Owl Sewing Project

I read a guest post from Toad's Treasures on Trendy Treehouse. Whew, what alliteration. If you sew, or really, really want to learn like me, there is an adorable stuffed owl pattern HERE. This is the first time I stumbled upon Toad's Treasures and, interestingly, Toad is a relative newbie to sewing and claims she still has trouble with patterns and, therefore, creates her own. Well, this has inspired me. I received a machine from my mom almost 5 years ago and I wanted to take lessons but then I got pregnant and they never materialized. I don't know when but I call this as my first project. Which will actually be my first two because both kids will definitely want one!

4/7 Only! 20 Free 4X6 Prints at Walgreens

If you are like me, you haven't done anything with your Easter pictures yet! Get 20 free prints today at Walgreens. On the Walgreens website, click on "photo" and look for the "7 Days of Deals" button. You have the choice of uploading and selecting store delivery or printing out the coupon and bringing it into the store.

(Thanks, Couponing to Disney!)

Blog Hop 4/5

Kmart Double Coupons Event Coupon Match Ups & Deals!

I have never made it to a Kmart double coupon event but I know the deals are great! I Heart Coupon Deals has all the matchups HERE. There are some great freebie and low cost items! Please post your deals in the comments!

(Thanks, I Heart Coupon Deals & Couponing to Disney!)

Poisson d'avril

In France, the day to play silly pranks is April 1st, just like us. But, French children have a tradition where they tape cut out fish on the backs of their friends. Sounds silly but I bet your preschooler will think this is funny! So, today we printed out some fish to color and we're going to practice our safety scissor skills and cut out some fish to trick Daddy & little brother!


Anyone else have cute/funny April Fools' day plans?

FREE $15 "R" Us Gift Card with Purchase

Buy 2 Value boxes of Huggies diapers on April 2-3 and get a $15 Toys R Us gift card FREE.

The Fine Print:
In-store only. Quantities limited. No rain checks. Limit one per guest. Gift card valid on your next purchase. See back of card for Terms & Conditions. Gift card is valid 6 hours after activation. Expiration date is 1/31/11. Available only in the United States. ® Registered Trademark of Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. © 2010 KCWW.

Pair this deal with the $3 off any Huggies diapers printable coupon available at coupons.com Hurry and print the coupon today before they change!

Which FREE SAMPLE of new Pantene will you choose?

With new customized solutions for your unique hair type, it’s easy to find a Mr. Right for your hair. Get your free sample and get the style you’ve been searching for.


You will need to login/join as a vocalpoint member.  Think about joining if you haven't already.   I have received FREE Full sized products from vocalpoint before.  I have also received samples and high value coupons. 

CVS Freebies

Check out Coupon Cravings for completely free deals at CVS this week. These are free from sale and coupon pairings (no ECBs needed)!

Clean & Clear face wash (trial size)
Windex
Listerine
Scrubbing Bubbles
Neutrogena Sunscreen (trial size)

Check out all of the details and where to get the coupons you'll need HERE.

Blog Hop Follow Up! 3/22

On Monday I participated in my first blog hop. Welcome to my new readers! I also found some neat things on the blogs that were featured (or on blogs that were linked to featured blogs).

I had seen this rainbow cupcake idea before and after seeing pictures on this blog, I decided that day was the day! We had fun making them and even more fun eating them! Thanks, PF22!




On this blog, I found an adorable bunny coloring page made by A Winding Road. My kids enjoyed coloring them! Thanks!

Upcoming Red Plum Insert Preview

Our region receives the Red Plum inserts in the mail prior to being released in the upcoming Sunday paper. If you do not receive the Red Plum this way, here is a preview of the upcoming insert. Please post any questions (mistakes?!). (This is the first time I have typed out all of the deals!)


Grocery
$1 off Pedigree Good Bites
$2/2 MET-RX bars
$1 off Whiskas Dry Cat Food
BOGO Whiskas tray any flavor
$.50 off Treasure Cave Cheese
$1 off The Goodlife Recipe Treats for Dogs
$1 off The Goodlife Recipe Food for Dogs
$.75/2 Lipton tea bags or any iced tea mix
$.50 off Hellmann's product
$.50/2 Knorr Recipe/Sauce/Gravy Mix Products
$.60/2 Lipton Recipe Secrets Products
$1.25/2 Wish-Bone or Wish-Bone Western Dressings
$.60/2 I Can't Believe it's Not Butter! products
$.60 off I Can't Believe It's Not Butter! sticks
$1/2 Stella Brand Cheese cup or wedge varieties
$1 off any Betty Crocker Cupcake Icing
$1/2 Folgers Products 7 oz. or larger including Folgers Singles and pods
$1/2 Instant Coffee Crystals
$1 off any Folgers Gourmet Selections product
$1/2 Rhodes Warm-n-Serve Rolls
$1/2 Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls
$1/2 Jimmy Dean Sausage Rolls
$.50 off any Whole Fruit Sorbet
$.50 off any Whole Fruit Bar
$1/2 Smucker's Jam, Jelly, Preserves or Fruit Spread products
$1.50/2 bags Dunkin' Donuts Coffee 11 oz. or larger
$1.50/2 Kellogg's Rice Crispies, Crispix, All-Bran and/or Kellogg's Corn Flakes Cereals (10 oz. or larger, Any Flavor, Mix or Match)
$1.25/3 Kellogg's Pop-Tarts (8 ct. or larger, any flavor, Mix or Match)
$1 off Kellogg's Smart Start (14.7 oz. or larger, any flavor)
$1 off Kellogg's Special K Low Fat Granola, Raisin Bran Extra! or Frosted Mini-Wheats Little Bites(14 oz. or larger, any flavor)
$2/2 packages Special K Low Fat Granola, Raisin Bran Extra! or Frosted Mini-Wheats Little Bites (14 oz. or Larger, any flavor, mix or match)
$1 off Uncle Ben's Long Grain & Wild Rice
$1/2 King's Hawaiian products, excluding 4-pack rolls

Health & Beauty
$1/2 Tums (24 ct. or larger)
$2 off Tums Dual Action (25 ct. or larger)
$3 off any SLIMShots Liquid portion Control (excluding 2 count)
$.75 off Dove Beauty Bar
$1.25 off Dove Body Wash
$2.50/2 Dove Hair Care Products
$1.50 off Dove Hair Daily Treatment Conditioner
$1.25 Dove Ultimate Beauty Care Anti-perspirant/Deodorant
$.75 off Dove Anti-perspirant/Deodorant and/or Body Mist
$1 off Pond's cream, towelettes or cleansing product
$1.25 Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes (30 ct. only)
$2 off L'Oreal Shade of Preference
$1 off Maybelline Great Lash Mascara
$1 off any Advil PM 16 ct. or larger
$2 off any Advil PM 80 ct. or larger
$1 off any Centrum Ultra
$3/2 Centrum Ultra
$1 off Caress Tahitian Renewal or Cashmere Luxury (12 oz. Body Wash or larger)
$1 off Caress Daily Silk, Glowing Touch, Evenly Gorgeous, Velvet Bliss, Blackberry Cream or White Peach Cream Whipped Souffle (12 oz. Body Wash or larger or 6 bar pack or larger)
$.5o off any Lever 2000 bar soap (2-bar or 4-bar)
$1 off any Lever 2000 bar soap (6-bar or larger)
$.50 off any Sally Hansen Nail Color
$1 off any Sally Hansen Lip Product
$.50 off any Sally Hansen Nail Treatment or Hand Care Product
$1 off any Sally Hansen La Cross Beauty Tools $2 or more
$1 any ThermaCare 2ct. or larger
$1.25 Dove Men+Care Body and Face Bar (6-bar pack or larger)
$1 off Dove Men + Care Body Wash (13.5 oz. or larger) OR Scrubber
$1.50 off any Strap Perfect Bra Strap
$2 off any Stayfree Product
BOGO Buy any Carefree Ultra Protection product Get a 14-16 ct. FREE
BOGO Buy any Carefree product 38 ct. or larger Get a 22 ct. FREE
$1 off any o.b. product

Household
$1 any size Tide Stain Release
$3/1 Larger size Tide Stain Release
$1 off any size ERA
$3 off Snuggle Fabric softener liquid (32 ld. or larger) or Dryer Sheets (70 ct. or larger)

LOWES Coupons
$3.25/1 Tide Total Care Laundry Detergent
$1/1 Method Hand Soap Bottle or Refill
$1/1 Arm & Hammer Dryer Sheets
$1/1 Green Works Natural Cleaning item
$1/1 Lysol 19 oz. Disinfectant Spray
FREE Simple Green Naturals Hand Soap with any Simmple Green Naturals Purchase

MISC.
$10 off teleflora.com bouquet Promo Code PASTEL

Restaurants
FREE cup of soup or side salad with the purchase of any lunch sandwich at Bruegger's
$1 off any dozen bagels or any Bagel Bundle at Bruegger's
FREE small coffee with the purchase of a bagel and cream cheese at Bruegger's
$10 off $20 purchase at Buca di Beppo

Get Disney's Family Fun Magazine Today Only for $3.31

Today's special is a Disney's Family Fun magazine subscription for $3.89. Use code PXSS328 for an additional 15% off. Also, Mr. Rebates is offering 10% cash back at Best Deal Magazines. If you're not a member of Mr. Rebates, you can click the ad on my sidebar to join. I get this magazine and it has some really cute crafts and party ideas. I've stashed away the directions for candy tractors for my son's 2nd birthday party!

For the rest of this week's deals and additional coupon codes at Beast Deal Magazines, see Nicole's Nickels' post HERE.

(Thanks, NN!)

I'm trying my first blog hop. Here it goes...

Fun Freebies

Fun Freebies - Take 2
(If you got a post from me that just said "FU" it was my son. He hit the post button! I swear!)



Free by Rebate-Olay Quench Lotion
Receive a full rebate from Olay when purchased between 3/19-4/16. Rebates must be mailed by 4/30/10. Click HERE for the rebate form.
(Thanks, Frugal Living and Having Fun!)


Try Rachael Ray Everyday magazine for Free. Click HERE for a free trial issue.


Find out how to get a fun & free photo strip from Shutterfly. Check out Bargain Briana's post HERE. (Thanks, BB!)


Freebie via Facebook- Wrigley's Five React Gum
Find out from Deal Seeking Mom HERE. (Thanks, DSM!)


Dove Daily Treatment Conditioner Sample - Sign up HERE.

Thanks to the following, my daughter is walking around talking in a Jersey accent. It's ridiculous - but hysterical.

Snuggle Bugs Consignment - Last Day Half Price Sale - Pittsburgh

Just a reminder that today is the last day for the Spring/Summer Snuggle Bugs Consignment Event. Today is the half price sale where many items will be half price. They are open from 9 am -2 pm.

This is the first time I have participated in the event and I have the ability to check my sales online. I only have 6 items left!

For directions and further information visit http://snugglebugsconsignment.com

Easter/Spring Pictures at Picture Me! Portrait Studios

Today is Easter picture day. Woo hoo. I can't be alone when I say I get burned out after my kids take pictures, right? Hopefully today is smooth sailing. Their outfits are a little casual this year but very cute! My daughter actually picked hers out and my little man is rocking his new Nikes and a robot tie. A tie! It is his first tie! And it has little robots on it! The things that excite me these days.



Sometimes our budget allows us the fancy studios for pictures and other times it does not. I don't know how many times I've talked to other moms and when the topic of studio pictures comes up they get all uncomfortable and say how horrible they have been about getting regular pictures taken. (On a side note, I have to say I am pretty good about this but where I struggle is actually doing something with them when I get them.) With Picture Me's promo package you can get (30) pictures of one pose for $7.99 and often times as low as $4.99. Picture me! Portrait Studios has some printable coupons available. And, as always, if you frequent a business or plan to, sign up for their emails because often times you will find the best savings there!

Get your Picture Me! Coupons HERE. (20% off total order excluding promo package & Free French Classic Collage)

Note: I didn't get compensated in anyway for this post- just sharing coupons I'm actually using!

New The Princess and the Frog Rebate with Success Rice Purchase

I have previously posted about the release of this movie on DVD/Blu ray HERE. Today I found out about another rebate.

Save $5 by mail when you purchase any (2) Success Rice products. There is a $1/2 coupon in the upcoming RedPlum insert. I got mine in the mail today! For complete details and rebate form visit SuccessRice.com

Bzz Agent Starbucks Coffee Campaign!

When I saw the box with the cute "bee" tape I couldn't wait to open it. Over the last year or so I have morphed from an occasional coffee drinker to a have to have at least a half a pot each day coffee drinker. Sometimes I even have to stop myself from making more. Well, I had just come off of a few days without coffee. We were out and didn't get to the store. So, no coffee at all for two days and then I got my Bzz box!

When I signed up for the campaign I knew I would be sampling Starbuck's Pike Peak Roast. It is their signature blend named after the location of the very first Starbuck shop in Pike Place Market, Seattle. I, by the way, was there before and while the famed flying fish were entertaining, I couldn't help but think that Pittsburgh's very own Strip District was perhaps a little cooler. But, I digress. I also got a smaller, "Intro" size, of the Caffe Verona flavor to brew and share with friends. The 5 oz. "Intro" bags are available in Columbia, House Blend & Caffe Verona. Starbucks is also offering a promo where you buy coffee and get coffee. I think this is a pretty smart marketing tool. I'm all about saving money but if I hear about the "latte factor" one more time as a way to keep money in your pocket I think I might just scream. And, if I haven't had my coffee to keep said money in my pocket I guarantee I will be screaming! Very smart on their part. Here is the deal: Buy the 12 oz. coffee to brew at home as a more economical choice then, bring the packaging in for a FREE tall brewed coffee . As always, the kit also included a few coupons to share with friends.

I was very happy with the Pike Peak Roast and I will be purchasing it in the future. I haven't brewed the Verona Caffe yet but I will post about it when I do.

Let me just share a few more things about Bzz Agent and Pike Peak Roast:

If you'd like more info on how to become a Bzz Agent, click HERE.

Pike Peak Roast is available in a 12 oz. package at all major grocery stores and mass retailers at a suggested price of $8.99.

I did receive this product to try free but I was not paid for this post and my views always remain my own - just ask my husband.

The Princess and the Frog Blu ray Combo Deals

The Princess and the Frog will be released March 16th.

Get a $10 coupon for Disney's The Princess and the Frog HERE.

There is a $5 rebate with the purchase of 2 Band-Aid products. Get all of the info HERE.
Get a Target Web Band-Aid coupon HERE. Pair with the Band-Aid coupon from the 3/7 coupon inserts and get a box FREE! *Don't forget to bring your reusable bags for a $.05 credit per bag at Target.

I've read (from Couponing to Disney) that Target will have the Blu-ray combo for $26.99 and it will come with a Tiana purse. For more information & another rebate offer check out Couponing to Disney HERE.

Free Alice Tickets with $100 Purchase

Free Betty Crocker Frosting & Right Gaurd Deodorant @ Giant Eagle

Money Saving Mom has the links for Betty Crocker Frosting and Right Gaurd deodorant making them FREE this week at Giant Eagle.


Thanks, Money Saving Mom!

Barbie in A Mermaid Tale Movie Premiere @ The Pittsburgh Zoo

From the Zoo's Newsletter:

Saturday and Sunday at the Zoo
March 6 and 7
Show times: 10 a.m. Noon, 2 p.m. (Education Complex)
Free with general admission
Barbie is leading a double life. She is a champion surfer from Malibu with fabulous friends and a family secret. One minute she is a normal girl and the next she is a mermaid, named Merliah. Barbie and her ocean friends work together to save their ocean kingdom. Take a photo with a life-size Barbie as Merliah Mermaid and learn important information about ocean conservation. BARBIE® and ©2009 Mattel, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The Great Girl Event at Happily Domestic

Happily Domestic is hosting "The Great Girl Event" March 1-14. I thought I'd share because I have a daughter and I'd love to win any of the great prizes she has up for grabs and, as a blogger, I just think this is so smart and fun! Check it out! Guess what the first giveaway is!? A My Twinn doll! Enter HERE! I've also noticed she has a lot of info about cloth diapering on her blog if you are thinking about going that route!

For your Little Pirate's Basket Perhaps

Or your little Princess. My daughter LOVES these movies. I know she probably shouldn't be watching them but she loves to watch "bad guy" shows. Amazon.com has the Pirates of the Caribbean movies on Blu-ray 50% off. Offer ends March 27th.

The Logic of a 3 1/2 Year Old

Heather at PittsburghMom.com had a post the other day called The Logic of a 4 Year Old -you can check it out HERE. She also mentions how kids say things that their parents think are hysterical and in actuality they are not. So let me just tell you about the conversation I had over lunch with my 3 1/2 year old daughter. And, it goes a little something like this:

Little Lady: Mommy, why do we have ears?
Me: They help us hear, honey. You know that, right?
Little Lady: Well, that is what I thought but, what if you don't have ears - like Dora?
Me: (Cracking Up) She has ears.
Little Lady: Well, I've never seen them.

Come to think of it:

Here is Dora



Here is Dora swinging from a vine



Here is Dora skiing


Even getting lassoed by Diego




NO EARS!!

It is March - I can start looking for Easter Stuff

I know I'm totally OCD about holidays and birthdays and a number of other things. I'm completely aware but I wasn't going to look at Easter stuff until March. Kind of like a self imposed deadline. Yeah, maybe I already have a few tricks up my sleeve but now I can really get to it. I would like to have an ongoing post with all things Easter such as local/national event listings and great basket filler deals. But, just for now I did I quick search on Amazon and found these cute things. Plus, I really need to just feel like winter will be over some time this century.

Kennywood Park Season Passes Now Available!

Ah, Kennywood. I am so excited this year because both of my kids are now big enough to ride hand in hand in KiddyLand together. Well, at least that is how I picture it in my head. In reality it will probably be my daughter's hand in the middle of my son's back pushing him on her ride of choice and then my daughter's hair in my son's hand pulling her the opposite way. Did I really type that? Well, at least there are lots of things to bribe them with. Wait, did I say that? If you aren't from Pittsburgh you are probably thinking, "What the heck is Kennywood?". Well it is just the greatest community amusement park EVER. I've showed more love about it HERE.

Buy your Season Pass and check out the new coaster HERE!

P.S. If you are planning a first time trip to Kennywood, FYI - it is not DisneyWorld. Please don't try and compare! Both are the best at what they do!

SwagBucks Code in the Newsletter

If you are a member of SwagBucks, check your inbox. There is a code in the newsletter!

Giant Eagle Deals & Coupon Match Ups 2/25/10

Read Deal Seeking Mom's post HERE for this week's GE matchups. Thanks, DSM! This makes making my shopping list so much easier!! The Huggies deal and the Disney vitamins look good!

When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Breakfast?

What? Well, everyone in our house is sick and it has been pretty miserable around here. Nobody wants to go to the grocery store so we are having breakfast for dinner tonight. I'm going to put on a pot of coffee and try and make the beignets I was supposed to make on Mardi Gras. Side note- My little lady has probably had it the worst and she is excited about the beignets because Princess Tiana makes them in her story and we are currently Princess obsessed.
Never know, maybe this will help shake the funk off of us. I'll post a picture of the outcome and the recipe if they turn out well. Or, maybe even if they don't turn out too well.

Bargain Briana's Frugal Map

Bargain Briana has created a Frugal Map to hook you up with blogs that are in your area. If you have a frugal blog you should submit your blog for admission. If you are looking to save - check out some of the blogs listed in your area! Thanks, BB!

Top Two Tuesday - Top 2 TV Shows

1. Psych



Probably not one of the most well known shows but my husband and I love this comedy. The main characters are about our age and really they couldn't have captured our sense of humor better if they had us abducted by aliens and mentally probed us. Very funny and we look forward to it every week.

2. General Hospital



While I don't watch every day, overall it is the longest running show I watch and I got hooked at a very, very young age. Frisco & Felicia were my super couple.

*A new show that has only aired twice could have the potential to have me hooked - HBO's How to Make it in America

Recipe Ravin' - Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

SmocketyFrocks.com has a linky today called, "What's in Your Crockpot?". I just happen to have something in mine so I thought I'd share. Check out what others are cooking HERE.

Here is mine. It is really easy.

In a slow cooker, add:

4 chicken breasts
1 packet of Taco seasoning
1 Cup Salsa
1/2 Cup sour cream
1 Can Reduced Sodium Cream of Mushroom soup
1/2 Cup frozen corn

Cook on low 6-8 hours. Serve with rice. Today I'm serving with Jiffy corn bread muffins. Easy meal for when you have practice/games/lessons in the evening!

Bloggie Love - Check Out a Follower's First Giveaway!

Megan at 2 of a Kind, Working on a Full House, is hosting her first giveaway! Not long ago I was very excited to host my first giveaway and wanted to share the love! She's giving away Victoria Secret's new fragrance and throwing in a surprise! Enter her giveaway HERE!

30 Day Shred

Do you know a Shred Head? Well, Jillian Michaels of The Biggest Loser fame has a DVD/Workout program called the 30 day Shred. The deal is you work out for 30 days for only 20 minutes a day and progress through 3 difficulty levels. I had read about this Shredding phenomenon for a few weeks and wanted to give it a try because the people that are doing it seemed obsessed. And, I felt like the last person on Earth to know about it. Before I got the DVD I thought how can 20 minutes make a difference? This had to be just a marketing ploy to get busy moms to buy! Get ripped in 20 minutes while your kids nap, right? But, after I got it I could see how this could work. Now, I can't see how anyone can't lose weight/get toned by doing this DVD. Problem is, I did it for 4 days and got sick and now I'm having a hard time starting again. My son is napping, husband is at work, daughter is all snuggled up watching a movie and dinner is in the crockpot. I guess I'm out of excuses and I'm going to start right now. I thought if I blogged about it I will do it. We'll see. Any other Shred Heads?



I've included the link to this DVD at Amazon but this can be purchased at Target & Walmmart, too!

Fun Freebies

Sample NEW Tropical Chewy Lemonhead and Friends HERE (Thanks, Deal Seeking Mom!)






Try Fekkai Hair Product Samples HERE (Thanks, Freebies4Mom!)



Check out Good Deal Gal's post about how to get 2 Tide Samples (Thanks, GDG!)

Recipe Ravin' - Pepperoni Rolls

I'm making pepperoni rolls this afternoon and they are a family favorite! They are kid friendly and great snacks to take on the go. If you aren't from SW Pennsylvania you might not know about these. They are salty and sweet and really yummy. I didn't have a family/friend recipe that I could try so, a little while back, I tried allrecipes.com and one recipe came up. I thought I'd give it a go and the dough is perfect. They are fun to make with kids but, be warned - they are addictive! The following is the recipe that I use. *Recipe Note- I only use 3 pieces of pepperoni per roll and I add a bit of shredded mozzarella.

Pepperoni Rolls

Prep Time:
25 Min

Cook Time:
15 Min

Ready In:
2 Hrs 10 Min

Servings 20

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm water (100 degrees F/40 degrees C)
• 1/2 teaspoon white sugar
• 1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 (8 ounce) package sliced pepperoni

Directions

1. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon sugar in 1 cup of warm water in a small bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let stand for 5 minutes.
2. Mix flour, 3/4 cup sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Stir in the yeast mixture, beaten eggs, and melted butter. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
3. Lightly oil a large bowl, then place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a light cloth and let rise in a warm place (80 to 95 degrees F (27 to 35 degrees C)) until doubled in volume, about 1 1/2 hours.
4. Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a cookie sheet.
5. Punch down the dough, and divide it into 20 equal pieces about the size of a golf ball. Using your hands, flatten each piece into a small rectangle about 4 inches square. Place 3 slices of pepperoni down the center of each dough square, overlapping the slices. Place another row of 3 slices next to the first. Roll the dough around the pepperoni slices, pinch the edges closed, and place the rolls on the prepared cookie sheet.
6. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly browned and the tops are barely golden.

Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 247 | Total Fat: 10.3g | Cholesterol: 45mg

LeapFrog Learn & Groove $3 Coupon

Click Here for the savings. There are 3 ways to save:

1. Print coupon and bring it to your favorite retailer.
2. Enter coupon code FEBTOY3 on LeapFrog.com at checkout
3. Enter coupon code FEBTOY3 on amazon.com

I love the 3 options. I hope to see this from more manufacturers soon! The Amazon options is a great way to stretch your Amazon giftcards from Swagbucks!

Free Excedrin

Here is an opportunity to get a coupon for a free Excedrin product. Excedrin is my painkiller of choice and I'm happy to be getting a coupon in the mail for a free product up to $5.99. All you need to do is select which pain relief product you have used in the past 12 months. This is from the Excedrin website and I can't imagine it will last long so if you want it, do it now.

(Thanks, Couponing to Disney)

Oscar Night -March 7th

This year, I thought for about a minute, I'm going to watch each nomination for best picture. Then it hit me, some of them are still in theaters and that's just not going to happen. While AVATAR is probably a lovely film, I'm not wasting one of my nights out listening to 3 hours of a made up language when I can stay home and hear 12+ hours of jibberish for free. Of the 10 nominations, I've just seen UP (but I saw it at least 10 times, but that doesn't count, does it?)

And the nominiees for Best Picture are:

• Avatar

• The Blind Side

• District 9

• An Education

• The Hurt Locker

• Inglourious Basterds

• Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire

• A Serious Man
  
  
• Up

• Up in the Air

What about you? Any favorites or predictions?

Visit http://oscar.go.com/ for more Oscar fun

Drugstore Deals

Link up to these ladies' websites for full deals at CVS, Walgreens & Rite Aid. I didn't even get the Sunday paper inserts today. My husband tried 2 places for me but the paper was never delivered at either due to the snow!

Walgreens Sale and Coupon Matchups 2/7/10 (Thanks, FrugalRIMama!)

CVS Sale and Coupon Matchups 2/7/10 (Thanks, FrugalRIMama!)

Best Rite Aid Deals and Coupon Matchups 2/7/10 (Thanks, Centsable Mama!)

Mama's Print Worthy Coupons

Here is a list of some of the best coupons I've come across. Enjoy!


Free "Sound" at Build- a -Bear (Thanks, Couponing to Disney)

$10/1 Tonka Chuck My Talking Truck

$5/1 Leapfrog Tag Reading System

$5 off any $20 Hasbro Strawberry Shortcake purchase

$15 off $15 purchase at The Limited (Thanks, CouponDad)

What's Up?

I'm here and I have a bunch of blogs in my head but haven't been posting a ton lately because I've had, and still have, some house guests. My sister was in for a long weekend and my mom is in for the week. We've been hanging out and shopping - it has been great! One thing I can guarantee this week is that if there are any good deals, we will find them!

Top Two Tuesday

This is fun. I'm joining Jimmy Choos and a Baby Too and am posting my 2 favorite movies. There are a lot of movies that have moved me over the years but I am basing my 2 picks on the fact that under no circumstances, could I ever change the channel if either of these movies are on.

Movie #1 -National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation



What gets me is that Chevy Chase does not even have to speak and I'm cracking up. To me, it is just the perfect movie.

Movie #2- Dirty Dancing



A coming of age show with dancing and 80's music!

What are yours? Please Share!

Drugstore Deals

Check out this week's CVS deals and coupon matchups with Frugal RI Mama (Thanks, FRIM!)
Get her Walgreens' deals HERE.

Coupon Katarina has the Rite Aid deals HERE. (Thanks, CK!) AND,

Couponing to Disney posted HERE how to get a new $5 off $25 Rite Aid coupon on Redplum.com (Thanks, CTD!)

JULIE & JULIA GIVEAWAY WINNER

Congratulations Victoria!!

She said, "I subscribed to your blog! Congrats on your first giveaway!"

Thanks to all that entered and participated in my first blog. You were all very encouraging!! Be on the lookout for upcoming giveaways!!

CONTEST CLOSED _ Last Day to Enter the Julie & Julia Giveaway!

There is still time. Enter by posting your comments HERE before 11:59 EST tonight. Good Luck!!

The Perfect Princess Party 1/30/10 @ The Disney Store

Visit your local Disney Store on January 3oth for THE PERFECT PRINCESS PARTY. Choose from 2 "parties".

From the Disney Store Website:
Session 1--11:00-11:45 a.m and Session 2--1:00-1:45 p.m
Wear your favorite princess gown and learn how to be a perfect princess!

I'm not sure what activities are planned for this event but we did attend the Disney Store's Halloween party and my daughter had a blast. The only downfall was that it was really crowded. This should be better because it will be all (mostly, I guess) girls and is broken down in 2 sessions. What to do, what to do? Dinosaurs vs. Princesses - My daughters absolute 2 favorite things in life are going head to head on the 30th. We are planning on going to the museum for an event that day that I posted about HERE. Knowing me, I'll attempt both. Spoiled much? I just love the fact that she is able to love both Princesses and Dinosaurs!

One Small Step for Man, One Great Leap for Savings...

Congratulations to my sister who finally learned how to print coupons online! Love you!!

Kraft Printable Coupons

I thought I'd share some less frequently seen coupons I found on Couponing to Disney. Frankly, I'm sick of some of the same old coupons and I like to see some new ones in the rotation. Login/Register to Kraft.com click on "Kraft Products" then, "Supervalu" for Capri Sun & Claussen Pickles printable coupons! Claussens - Yum! And, no I am not pregnant.

$1/4 Philadelphia Cream Cheese
$1/1 Velveeta
$1/2 Planters Mixed Nuts
$1/2 Capri Suns
$1/1 Grated Parmesan Cheese
$1/1 Oscar Mayer Meats
$1/1 Oscar Mayer Bologna
$1/1 Claussen Pickles
$1/2 Kraft Deluxe or the creamiest, the dreamiest Velveeta Shells & Cheese

(Thanks, Couponing to Disney)

Payless Discounts

My little lady has grown out of her first pair of tap shoes. I'm not sure why I feel so sad about this but I do. I need to pick up a new pair for her before her class tonight. I called Payless and they are holding what seems to be the only size 8 1/2 toddler in the tri-state area. That gave me a couple of hours to find a coupon. I found 2 options.

1. If you are a AAA member, they offer a 10% discount off of regular priced merchandise - just show your membership card at checkout. This is a good last resort savings.

2. I signed up for email notifications at Payless.com and they instantly sent an email with a coupon for an additional 15% off. I'm obviously going with this option :) Now, if they can offer anything for the sting I'm feeling due to my baby growing out of her first pair of tap shoes....

Recipe Ravin' - Creamy Potato Soup

Photo Credit: Kana Okada

I made this hearty soup for the 2nd time last night. It is a must try if you like creamy soups. I would rate the skill level for this recipes as EASY.

Creamy Potato Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon (about 6 oz.), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 baking potatoes (about 2 lb. total), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 3 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives

Preparation

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook bacon, stirring occasionally, until crisp and browned, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain. When cool enough to handle, crumble.

2. Discard all but 2 Tbsp. fat and return pot to medium heat. Add onion, garlic and thyme and sauté until onion is soft, about 7 minutes. Add potatoes and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer until potatoes are tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Working in batches, process in blender with sour cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Ladle soup into bowls and top with chives and bacon.

Nutritional Information

Calories:

275

Fat:

13g (sat 7g)

Protein:

10g

Carbohydrate:

29g

Fiber:

4g

Cholesterol:

42mg

Sodium:

877mg

All You, NOVEMBER 2009

Mamas New Shoes Recipe Notes- I don't have a blender (long story) so I used a mini food processor and it works just fine. I also used more than a cup of sour cream. I eyeballed it and I would say I used an extra 1/3 cup. I also added cheddar cheese for garnish. Why not, right?

This is a rather inexpensive meal that heats up well for leftovers. Here are printable coupons for Kraft cheese and Breakstone sour cream. (Thanks for the coupons, Saving with Shellie)

Weekend Shopping Share-Walgreens

My Walgreens Trip

Transaction 1:
Total OOP $19.48
Got $5 RR

Took advantage of the spend $25 on select baby items get $5 RR

(2) Huggies Diapers on sale $8.99 each
(3) Huggies wipes on sale 2/$5.00

Used (2) $2 printable Huggies coupons HERE (Thanks, Nicoles Nickels)
Used (2) $.75 printable Huggies wipes coupons HERE (Thanks, Nicoles Nickels)
Used (1) $.50 Huggies wipes coupon I had hanging around

Transaction 2:
Total OOP $0.48
Used $5 RR from previous transaction

ALL $4 sale price $2 off Q
BIC BOGO in store and used (1) BOGO any Bic Disposable Q (Got 2 for free)
Johnson & Johnson floss In ad Q $.99 and $1/1 Reach floss Q (Got it free)
Coffee Mate in store BOGO $2.49 used (2) printable coupons HERE (.49 for 2) (Thanks, Nicoles Nickels)
Walgreens brand dryer sheets $2.99 No Q and not on sale - just needed badly

*The ALL, Floss & BIC coupons were all regional coupons found in previous Sunday Papers

Sample Saturday

Sign up Here for a sample of Dove Intense Damage Therapy.

While you're there check out all of the offers and coupons they have. They even have an instant win game. Click HERE for all of the special offers Dove is currently running.

Victoria's Secret Pink Nation - New Member Promo

If you haven't joined the pink nation yet, the promo for new members is "get a free solid tank with any purchase" and "$10 off any $50 purchase". Join the VS Pink Nation for freebies and goodies.

Note: I wasn't paid for this post. I just like spreading savings one panty at a time :)

Dr. Scott at Carnegie Museum of Natural History

My daughter is a huge dino fan. Like, she could name dinosaurs most adults can't pronounce when she was two. Her 3rd birthday party was a Dino party and when asked what she wanted to do on her "real" birthday, she opted for the museum for the umteenth time. This fall, we were so excited for the premiere of "Dinosaur Train" on PBS. We love it! The way the mesozoic period is represented is such a great idea! The main characters are dinosaurs and pterosaurs that lived in the Cretaceous period. They encounter dinosaurs from the Triassic and Jurassic period as well, but they board a train and travel back in time. This is a great visual for kids! And, if I've lost you with the different periods, it is a great visual for adults, too! It is very important to me that dinosaurs (and science in general) be realistically represented. Despite having talking dinosaurs that play games and travel on a train, there is real science behind this show. At the end of each episode, Dr. Scott Sampson talks to real kids about the info that was presented. We have found out that Dr. Scott will be at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History on January 30th. I've contacted Dr. Scott and this is a child friendly lecture where he will also be signing a copy of his new book. Because my daughter has taken such a serious interest in dinosaurs, I've become a Dr. Scott groupie too! If you haven't checked out Dinosaur Train, you really should! If you have and you are Dr. Scott fans too, you might want to check out the lecture.

This info was taken from CMNH's website:

Dinosaur Odyssey
Scott Sampson, PhD
Saturday, January 30, 2010
CMA Theater, 2:30 p.m.
Free with museum admission

One hundred million years ago, the American West was separated from Pennsylvania by the Western Interior Seaway. This “lost continent,” Laramidia, was the home of giant and often bizarre animals. Dr. Scott the Paleontologist, host of Dinosaur Train on PBS and renowned scientist/educator, takes us on a journey into this lost continent and addresses a variety of mysteries, such as the enigmatic presence of so many giant, plant-eating dinosaurs, and the evolution of the tyrant king, Tyrannosaurus rex.

Free Baby Einstein Mozart Download

In honor of Mozart's birthday on January 27th, Baby Einstein is offering a free Mozart download for your baby. Download HERE. You will need to sign in or register to take advantage of this offer. Offer ends 1/27/10

IMO-Freebie Worth Your Time Signing Up For

A couple of weeks a go I came across a signup for BeingGirl.com. The sample includes 1 pad, 2 pantyliners, 1 wipe & 3 different tampon sizes. I signed up because I hate spending money on feminine products. It is like I'm flushing money down the commode. But, if I must deal with such things I like to have a nice assortment. That said, my sample arrived today and it also included a $2 Tampax coupon and a coupon for a FREE Always Infinity 18 ct package.

Sign Up HERE.

Giveaway Link Up!

In honor of my first giveaway, I'm adding a linky to link your giveaways. Please post the direct link to your giveaway and not to your blog's homepage. Please leave a comment after linking! Thanks!!

CONTEST CLOSED_My Very First Giveaway, Ever!! Julie & Julia DVD and Book!! -1/28

I'm really happy to be hosting my first giveaway! I watched Julie & Julia this weekend and couldn't help but notice some similarities with myself and Julie & Julia. No, I'm no Julia Child but like Julia, I'm an American taken with French culture and like Julie, I'm going to turn 30 this year, just started a blog and have been trying to grow as a cook. So, I thought that an appropriate giveaway would be the Julie & Julia DVD and book. (1) lucky reader will win a copy of each. Giveaway ends 11:59 EST January 28, 2010. A random winner will be chosen on or around January 29, 2010.

1. Mandatory Entry- Subscribe to Mama Wants a New Pair of Shoes and leave a comment letting me know that you do!

2. Additional Entry- Include a link to this giveaway in your blog. Make sure to leave a comment including the link. If I've placed this giveaway on a linky on your blog, you can include that in a comment for an additional entry.

As a new blogger, I'd like to thank everyone that enters and want to wish you good luck!!

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

The teacher inside of me couldn't resist posting this. If your kids are wondering why they have a day off of school, why not share some of these activities with them? Click HERE for MLK activities from KABOOSE. Enjoy.

Attention Moms: Pittsburgh Area Consignment Opportunity

If you're a mom in the Pittsburgh area you may have heard about Snuggle Bugs & Co. Instead of a store, they have 2 consignment events a year. I received notice that the spring event is coming up in March. I registered to be a consignor for the fall/winter event last year and registration was easy. I did not, however, participate. Unfortunately, we were on vacation during the drop off period. I have talked to several moms in the community that have participated as both consignors and patrons and some of them have made some serious cash - like, a huge chunk towards your vacation fund! (or, anything else worth saving for!) I'm going to register and plan on participating. For more info, check out their website HERE.

The details (taken from their email notice):

Sale Dates: March 13th - 20th
(Volunteers, Consignors, and Guests shop BEFORE we open to the public!)

# of Consignors: 700 Maximum (so don't delay!)

# of Items per Consignor: Up to 150 High Quality Items

# of Items for Team Snuggle Bugs participants: Unlimited High Quality Items

Clothing Sizes: Newborn to kid's Size 12

We do not handle maternity fashions or car seats, but just about everything else under the sun!

EARN a shopping spree or a higher consignor payout by referring NEW consignors! See the 'New This Sale' tab on our website for contest details.