Free Cell Phone Ear Piece from Metro PCS - Southern California Residents Only

Starting July 1, Californians must abide by a new state law requiring drivers to use a hands-free device with their cell phone. If you haven't bought one yet, Metro PCS is offering a free cell phone ear piece, thanks to a tip from The Bargain Hunter. Pick one up from Monday, June 2 until Sunday June 8. Check out the details from The Bargain Hunter's blog here.

In case there's not a Metro PCS around you, or the ear piece isn't compatible with your phone, read this article from CBS5 on the best hands-free cell phone devices. According to the article, the best ones based on sound quality, simplicity and price are:
* Jabra Earbud $10-$20 (found here for $6.88)
* Bluetooth LG 30 $40-$50 (includes charger)
* Cardo S800 $90 (found here for $84.99)
* MotoROKR t505 $100-$170 (found here for $94.95)

Before you buy any of these, make sure that they are compatible with your cellular phone. Also, check bizrate.com to find the best price and a reputable retailer.

FYI, a violation of the new California law will incur a $20 fine for a first offense and $50 for each subsequent offense. For more details on the new California law, click here.

$0.99 cents Boots & More at Amazon.com

These super cute boots on Amazon.com used to cost $29.50 and now they're down to a mere $0.99 cents! If your child can fit into a size 4 shoe, or will fit into these in a couple of months, these are definitely a bargain! Shipping is $5 - still not too bad!

Here are a few other good deals I saw while I checking out the kids' shoe section:

• Thomas the Train Socktop Slippers for $3.99 (reg. $7.99).
• Toddler Girls' Kinsley T-Strap Shoes - Brown $5.99 (reg. $12.99)
• Boy's Multi Skater shoes $7.49 (reg. $22.50)

Webkinz Toy Sale - Buy One, Get One Free

If your kids like Webkinz, here's a good deal from Limited Too's website - Buy 1 Webkinz, get 1 free (select from 11 choices). Apparently, these toys don't go on sale very often and when they do, it's time to grab a few. Webkinz are plush pets that can be played within the virtual Webkinz world. Also, there is a coupon for 20% your entire order here but it may not work since it's a promotional offer. At any rate, give it a try! While you're online, check out the Clearance section where items are an additional 30% off. (Thanks to MyBargain Buddy for the tip!)

Cow Appreciation Day on July 11 - Get a Free Chick-Fil-A Sandwich When You Dress Like a Cow!

I love Chick-Fil-A, and I guess on July 11, my daughter and I will have to dress up as a cow to get a free combo meal! Check out the details here. To qualify, you must dress as a cow from head to toe - they give you three ideas on how to do it. If you partially dress as a cow (e.g. wear a mask, wear a cow printed hat or tote a cow printed purse, you get a free entree. What a fun promotion!

More Freebies - Folger's Coffee Sample, OB Tampons, Breast Exam kit, Vera Wang Princess sample

• Folger's - Free sample of Folger's Gourmet Selections here

• OB Tampon Case and sample here (I think I might have posted this before, but the case is so cute, I just had to show a pic again!)
• BuddyCheck 9 Breast Health Kit and Tools (Georgetown University) - Request your free BuddyCheck 9 kit which includes important information on breast cancer health and tools to help you remember your monthly breast self-exam.
• Vera Wang Princess Perfume Sample here
  

Freebies & Coupons of the Day

FREEBIES

• FREE sample of K-PAK (by Joico) Hair Reconstruction Product when you fill out a short survey here. Available while supplies last.
• Peets Coffee - Buy one of their new Berry Pomegranate Tea Freddos and get one free here. Expires June 5.
  

COUPONS

• Aveeno - Get $1 off Diaper Rash cream here
• Downey - $1 off your next purchase of any Downy liquid fabric softeners here
• Dr. Pepper - Get a $1 off 2 coupon here
• Naked Juice - $0.50 cents off one Protein Zone here (these are great for breakfasts on the go)
• Tyson - $4 off Tyson Fresh Meal Kits by completing the company survey here

Gymboree Coupons in American Baby June Issue

Gymboree - Got this tip from Freebies 4 Mom: Check the June issue of American Baby Magazine, on page 33 there is a peelie coupon that will reveal a savings of either 15%, 20%, 30%, or 50%. The coupon is valid between June 4-15 either in-store or online.

Designer Linens Outlet - Save an extra 70% in Clearance

Use code FINALSALE to get an additional 70% off clearance items now through June 15. Ground shipping is $6.95. Hurry because items will go fast! Items of note: Major League Baseball pillows are $7.99 (Braves, Cardinals, Yankees, Cubs); foam pillows $19.99; Quilts for $39.99; Duvets for $49.99; Rachel Ashwell toothbrush holders, tumblers $8.49. Remember - these are prices before the 70% off, so imagine what a deal you'll get!

Almost Free Candles from Illuminations

Illuminations Candles - Use coupon code 999201360 for $10 off your $10+ order through June 4th, 2008. Shipping is $5.95 (I think a little more if you buy more than one item). Some people are reporting that shipping is free if you buy exactly $10. Let me know if this works for you. Check out the clearance section for items that are up to 50% off. Thanks to Want Not for the tip!

Ralph's & Vons Deals Week of May 26

I just came back from Ralph's today and spent a whopping $38.48 for almost $70 worth of groceries. The specials are pretty good this week, especially if you have been clipping your coupons! If not, I've tried to post some internet links to help you out. Also check out The Green Stew's blog for her grocery deals. Here are the best buys that I've found:

Note: "MC" means Manufacturer's coupons and "D" means double coupon

• Chicken $0.59 cents a pound
• Red seedless grapes $0.88 cents a pound
• All or Wisk Detergent is $2.99. Use this $1.00 coupon for All Free & Clear here to get your detergent for $0.99 cents. Use this $1.50 coupon here for Wisk to get your detergent down to $0.49 cents! Remember that Ralph's only doubles for the first coupon and takes additional coupons for the same product at face value. You may have to go back in line, split up transactions, go back another day or go to another Ralph's to maximize this deal!
• Snuggle Softener is $2.99. There was a $1 off in the Sunday paper a few weeks ago making these just $0.99 cents.
• 2 Liter Pepsi or Coke Brand sodas are Buy 2, Get 3 Free. Each soda is $1.89. Use this coupon for .40 cents off Pepsi Max (hopefully this still works; my printer is down, so I can't check it right now) to get your total down to $2.50 for 5 bottles (3.78-.40 MC, -40D, -.40MC). Or you can buy 7Up and get a Buy One, Get One free coupon here which will bring your total down to $1.89 for 5 bottles. Remember that you also have to pay CRV on each bottle.
• Frigo String Cheese is $3.99 (12 pack). There was a $1 off coupon in the Sunday paper, making these $1.99.
• CPK or Digorno Pizza are $4.99. Buy 2 and you get a a free Dreyer's or Private Selection ice cream.
• Kraft Salad Dressings are 2 for $4. There was a .75 cent off coupon in the Sunday paper, making these 2 for $2.50.
• Suave Conditioner or Shampoo is $1. There was a $1 off two Suave hair care products in the Sunday paper, making these FREE.
• Scott Paper Towels are $6.49 for an 8-pack. There was a $1 off coupon in the Sunday paper making these $4.49. Or you can also download a $1 off Scott brand paper towels here.
• Ragu Pasta Sauce is 2 for $4. There was a coupon for $1 off 2, bringing these down to 2 for $2.
• Aquafresh Toothpaste is $1.00. I know there are some $1 off and $0.75 cent coupons floating around, but I already used mine all up at CVS. If you haven't used yours, you can get the cost of your toothpaste down to $0.25 or FREE!
• GUM Toothbrushes are 10 for $10.00 or $1 each. There were several $1 and $0.75 off coupons in the Sunday paper, making these either $.25 cents or FREE.
  

Also note that Ralph's also give you a $0.05 cent credit for bringing in your own recyclable grocery bags.

Von's Deals
I haven't been to Von's yet, but here is what looks good:

• One dozen eggs for $1. Use the super coupon found in the ad (mailed ads only)
• Strawberries 4lbs for $4
• Fresh Express Salads are 10 for $10. There was a $0.50 cent coupon in the Sunday paper making these FREE.
• Bounty Paper towels are $6.49 for an 8-pack. Use the $0.35 cent coupon in the Sunday paper making these $5.79.
• Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent is $3.99.
  
• Vidalia Onions are 10 for $10
• Broccoli is 10 for $10
• Zucchini is 10 for $10
• Green beans are 10 for $10
• Buy any 2 Secret Flawless, Gillette deodorant or Gillette Body Wash and get a FREE Fusion or Venus Embrace Razor. There were coupons for $1 off 2 Gillette deodorants in the Sunday newspaper though I don't know what the regular cost is yet (will report back tomorrow).

Vons is also running a special where you can get 2 FREE movie tickets with the purchase of $40 worth of participating products. I'm still working out the deal scenarios for this one - trying to get down my total to about $18 (which is about the cost of two movie tix anyway) - so will report back later to share details.

Happy grocery shopping!

$1 Shipping at Old Navy, Gap & Banana Republic

Now through May 31st, you can get $1 shipping with purchases from Old Navy, Gap or Banana Republic by using promo code 1CHECKOUT. This is a one-time use only. With a deal like this, especially with gas prices at $4+ a gallon, it's a perfect opportunity to stock up on summer items. Here are my top 5 picks for men's, women's and kids clothing from the clearance sections at Old Navy:

Old Navy
Flip flops for men and women, buy 2 or more at $2.50 each!

Men's
2-pack socks $1.99
Boxers $4.99
Striped Tees & Polos $6.99
Hoodies $9.99
Cargos $14.99

Women's
Thongs, bikinis and hipster panties $2.99
Layering camis $4.99
Crew and V-neck tees $5.99
Tie-front dresses $9.99
Metallic Braided Sandals $9.99
Wooden Handle Canvas Clutches $9.99
(yeah, this is actually my top 6...I get carried away with clothes!)

Children's
Bodysuits $3.99
Tees $3.99
Leggings $3.99
Tank tops $5
River sandals $7.50 (great for the summer)

$.49 Cent Book Worth a Million Words

OK, one more deal for today...

$0.49 cent books at Graveyard Mall today only (thanks to MyBargainBuddy)! For parents, I found the perfect book here for our little ones.

About the book: "The ultimate "Get Rich Quick" scheme...A child is feeling badly: "I've got nobody. I've got nothing. I'm poor." His friend helps him to see all the wonderful things he has and how much he has to give to others. She helps him to appreciate the value of his healthy body and shares with him the good things about life which are invaluable and which make us truly rich: a smile, a handshake, a joke, a hug, a song, a dance, a helping hand, a walk, a talk, a run, some fun, a dream...a friend."

Isn't that a beautiful message?!

Have a great weekend!

Up to 75% at The Company Store and The Company Kids

The Company Store and The Company Kids are having a sale of up to 75% select items. What I like best about the sale is the off-season items, e.g. Easter, Christmas and winter. I usually like to stock up on these so I'm not scrambling around at the last minute to buy a winter coat or items for my nieces' and nephews' Easter baskets.

If you purchase $25 or more from The Company Kids, you get a free Lil' Kinz (the smaller version of Webkinz). Click here for the details. If you spend more than $50 at The Company Kids, you can get a free art kit with promo code ART3.

As for The Company Store, order $50 or more and you'll receive a free cooler with promo code COOLER3 (expires May 31).

Here are the best deals I found at Company Kids:

Robes (fleece) - These are the cutest little things and they are priced at $12.99 (reg. $39.99). Most of the designs are for boys, but my daughter has no trouble wearing a robe with dinosaurs or trains. These would make great birthday gifts! Also can be monogrammed for an additional charge.

Pirate Croquet - I just thought this was hilarious. Priced at $12.99, this will keep both the kids and adults entertained on a nice summer day!

Aprons - There are several here from Christmas themed to dinosaur oil cloths from $5.99 to $11.99. I like to keep these in stock at home for art projects and occasional food fights.

Winter

• 3-in-1 jacket is $16.99 (reg. $59.50)
• Down buntings for baby are $13.99 (reg. $59). Also comes in other colors and patterns.
• Applique Christmas Stockings for $5.99 (reg. $19.50). These make beautiful presents and can also can be monogrammed.
• Advent Calendar Box $23.99 (reg. $69)

Easter

• Bunny Apron $6.99
• Easter dishes from $3.99 to $8.99

And as always, don't forget to go through Ebates or Coupon Cactus to get cash back for shopping online. Ebates is offering 2% while Coupon Cactus gives back 1%. May not seem like a lot right now, but it does add up. Just use that extra money for gas!

Disney Memorial Day Deals up to 60% off

There are some pretty good deals here, especially on swimsuits (as low as $7.99) and toys for the kids. Also, if you purchase $75 or more, you can get two tickets to The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian with promo code CASPIAN (good movie by the way).

Here's a list of what I found and most likely will buy!

Swimsuits

• Minnie Checked Swimsuit $7.99 (regularly $24.50)
• Minnie Terry Hooded Coverup $7.99 (regularly $24.50)
• Disney Princesses Two Piece Halter Swimsuit $9.99 (reg. $19.50) - choose from Sleeping Beauty, Ariel
• Disney Princesses Hooded Coverups $9.99 (reg. $24.50)
• Lots of Hannah Montana and High School Musical bathing suits from $9.99
• Boys Swimtrunks (Cars, Pirates) $12.99 (reg. $16.50)
  

Toys

• Belle or Sleeping Beauty 4" Little Princess Doll Play Set $4.99
• Ariel Beauty Play Set $9.99
• Cars Die-Cast Twin Pack $5.99
• Hannah Montana Backstage Closet $29.99
  

NOTE: Don't forget to make your purchase either through a cash-back-for-shopping site, such as Cash Crate or Ebates, so you can get something back. The highest cash back return I found is on Cash Crate, which offers 5% cash back. Cash Crate is mostly a paid survey site, but they do have a good selection of retailers such as Disney, Wal-Mart and eToys. If you have registered, go to the "Go Shopping" tab, look for Disney and click on it. You will receive an e-mail confirmation once your purchase is completed and delivered. If you haven't already registered, it's free.

Happy shopping!

CVS Scores for the Week of May 18-24

Every time I head out the door, my husband always jokes with me by saying, "Where are you going? To CVS?" Oops! I guess I am just a little bit obsessed (read: A LOT)! Anyway, here's what I scored this week. My goal now is to try to work in items my family needs every week. For example this week we really needed milk and paper towels. I managed to do it and spend $6.21 OOP.

1 Soft & Dri Deodorant $2.00
1 6 pack of Scott Towels $4.99
1 Garnier Fructis Hair Smoother $2.99
2 Crest Baking & Peroxide Toothpastes $3.98
3 Oral B Indicator Toothbrushes$5.97
1 Almay Eyeshadow $5.99
1 Schick Quattro Razor $8.49
1 Pantene Family Size Conditioner $5.99
2 Banana Boat Lip balms $3.98
1 Gallon of Milk $3.79
Subtotal: $49.17
Less Manufacturers coupons: - $14.75
Less CVS Coupon: - $10 off $50
Less ECBs: - $21.95
Total OOP: $6.21 (includes tax) ECBs Earned: $16.00

Note: I tried to be slick and buy the Banana Boat lip balms hoping that I would get $7 ECBs, but it didn't work like the Hawaiian Tropic deal last week. Oh well, lesson learned!

Hope you all had a great week at CVS as well!

More Deals at Newport News - Up to 80% off

Newport News is having another huge sale - up to 80% off with prices starting as low as $1.99. Don't forget to use code 635 for an additional 20% off and either L38 or L88 for free shipping. Here's what I found:

Apparel
* Classic fit jeans for $8.99
* Floral capris for $8.99
* Cropped boucle jacket for $9.99 (regularly $59.99)
*Floral print dress for $27.99 (regularly $74)
* Tunic tank for $10.99

Lingerie
* Lace Demi bras for $6.99
* Embroidered bras for $8.99
* Thongs for $ $2.99

Shoes & Miscellaneous
* Rosette Sandals for $19.99
* Slingback pumps for $8.99
* Ankle-tie Espadrilles for $8.99
* Footpetals are $2.99 (regularly $12.00). These are little cushions that you put in your shoes to prevent your feet from sliding forward so that your toes don't get scrunched or hang out the sides!

New Swimwear added too, so check it out! Here's a few I found:
* Mixed print tankini $14.99
* Soft-cup halter bikini for $9.99

Printable Coupons of the Day: Walgreen's, Macy's, H&M, Michaels

Walgreen's: Enjoy a $5 off $20 purchase on Friday, May 23 only!

Macy's: Get an extra 15%-20% with your Macy's card or an extra 10%-15% off with any other form of payment here. This was found in the LA Times, so it may be good only in the Southern California area. Valid May 21 to May 26.

H&M: Get 20% off a purchase of $60 or more here when you sign-up for their friends and family newsletter. Valid May 23-26.

Michael's - Get your 25% off coupon here. Good until May 31.

Children's Clothing Sales - Crazy 8's and Babies R' Us

Crazy 8's: This huge sale includes an extra 20% off all markdowns. The best deals to me were on swimsuits that are $7.99 (check out the cute popsicle tankini!). The swimsuits also feature UPF 50+ Sun Protection, which is great for kids. Other good finds include:
Baby Girls (up to 4T) - leggings for $1.59 (3-6 M to 4), lace trim dresses for $7.99, tights for .79 cents (stock up for winter); Baby boys (up to 4T) - boy's fleece long sleeve one-piece for .79 cents (size 12-18 only, but good for winter), boys sneakers for $3.99 (sizes 4-8 toddler); Boys (4-14) - swim trunks for $7.19; Girls (4-14) - lots of tees, especially Easter themed, for $3.99 and swimsuits for $7.99.

Crazy 8's clothing is a division of the Gymboree Corporation (Gymboree and Janie & Jack). It's like the affordable Old Navy of the Gap and Banana Republic family. I personally like their clothes - they are well-constructed, pretty fashionable and are especially good for playwear. By the way, shipping is only $5.

Babies R' Us: Save an extra 30% off all clearance apparel online with code BRU16MD and in-store. There is also a $5 off $25 coupon with promo code 921384. There are lots of 3 piece onesie sets as low as $7.98 (originally $14.99). If you are expecting or have an upcoming shower, there are some good deals here.

Thanks for visiting my blog today and happy shopping!

Forever 21 - Memorial Day Countdown Contest, Win $25 to $500 dollars in gift cards

My sister e-mailed me about this Memorial Day Contest from Forever 21, in which they give away 5 prizes (gift cards starting from $25 to $500) for 5 days beginning May 21. On May 21, enter to win $25; on May 22, enter to win $50; on May 23, enter to win $100; on May 24, enter to win $250; and on May 25, enter to win $500 and a style out by a Forever 21 designer! Winners will be announced on May 27. Good luck to all you fashionistas!

Thanks for visiting my blog today!

Memorial Day Sales - Online & In-Store

Here are the best deals I've found to jump start your Memorial Day weekend shopping extravaganza:

ONLINE
Babystyle: Get 20% off your purchase with promo code SITEWIDE20.

Crate & Barrel Outlet: Up to 70% off in their Outlet section. I know Crate & Barrel can be kind of expensive, but here are some good deals that I saw: pillow shams as low as $4.95 (see image to the right); Bialetti Holiday Stovetop Espresso Gift Set for $13.95; pancake molds for $2.50; In-Drawer Steak Knife Holder for $4.95; cloth napkins for $1.95.

Eddie Bauer: Get an additional 20% off clearance items with promo code MAYFS20. Great for Father's Day gifts!

JCPenney: Free shipping when you spend $49 or more with promo code SUPERSUM

Liz Claiborne: Take an additional 30% off already reduced items with coupon code LIZMEM08. Valid through May 27. Dresses were as low as $29.99, marked down from $119 ($20.99 with discount - see plaid halter), some $34.99 (see very cute ivory floral burnout dress - perfect for the summer); and bathing suits for $27.99.

Restaurant.com: Get a $25 gift certificate for only $5 by using discount code DELICIOUS.

IN-STORE:
Gymboree - Get an extra 20% off sale items.

Janie & Jack - Up to 50% off selected styles.

KB Toys: Receive $10 to use on your next purchase when you spend $30. Details here.

Swimsuit Sale at Newport News

I love the swimsuits at Newport News - they are very well made, come in a variety of sizes, and have enough lycra to suck everything back where it's supposed to be! Right now, they are having a sale, some swimsuits are 50% off. But the hottest deals are in the clearance section. I found this leopard print bikini for $4.99, a very pretty tropical-inspired print tankini for $14.99, one piece swimsuits for $8.99 and separates as low as $1.99!

Use promotional code 635 for 20% off your purchase and also promo code L38 or L88 for free shipping. I tried both today and they worked! Also, if you go through Ebates, you'll get 3% back on your purchase.

Happy shopping and thanks for visiting my blog today!

What Can I Get for Free This Week? Taco Bell Frutista Freeze, Viva Paper Towels, Teddy Grahams and Dairy Queen Blizzard

Free Summertime Treats!

• Free Frutista Freeze with any purchase at Taco Bell here (thanks to Freebies 4 Mom). According to her blog, you can get additional coupons from coupons.com. Pass it along to some friends!

• Buy one blizzard, get one free at Dairy Queen when you sign up for their DQ Blizzard Fan Club here. You'll also get another coupon on your birthday!

Free Food

• Get 10 free wings on your birthday from Wing Stop when you sign-up for their e-club here

Free Food Samples

• Free sample of Teddy Grahams via Scholastic.com here
  
• Free sample of Protein 2GO and a $2 off coupon here (thanks to Absurdly Cool Freebie Finder)
  
• Free sample of gourmet tea (your choice of Coconut Truffle or Gunpowder Mint) when you register at Steeped in Style here
• Free spice sample from Bourbon Street Blends here

Free for the Home and on the Road

• Free sample of Viva Paper Towels via Walmart here (again thanks to Freebies 4 Mom)
• Free FREE Rand McNally Road Atlas from DHL here. Note: You must answer a quick survey first for your business (thanks to Totally Free Crap).

Thanks for reading my blog today!

Diapers on the Cheap at Ralph's & CVS

Ralphs
This week at Ralphs, you get $4 off a $20 purchase of Huggies or Pull-Ups products at checkout. Read the details here. You can mix and match diapers with wipes or bath and body products according to this promotion. Make sure you also do the following to make this deal even better:

• Use your coupons - there was a $1 off Huggies in the Sunday coupons
• Signup for additional Huggies coupons at shortcuts.com. This is a site that will automatically load coupons on your grocery rewards cards.
  

Here's how I scored on diapers this past week at Ralph's:
Pull Ups at $10.99
Huggies overnights at $9.99
Total of $20.98
- $4 for promotion
- $2 Huggies Pull Ups coupon
- $1 Huggies (any brand) coupon
- $2 Huggies Pull Ups coupon from shortcuts.com
FINAL TOTAL for 2 packages of diapers: $11.98 ($5.99 for a package of diapers isn't too bad!)
I know I could have saved an additional $1 for the Huggies (any brand) on shortcuts.com, but apparently I forgot to load it onto my card!

CVS
Thanks to The "Cents"ible Sawyer, the buy two get one free on select CVS brands promotion this week also includes diapers. As I mentioned before, I really like CVS Training Pants - I think they are just as good, if not better, than Pampers Easy Ups. I'm not sure if this works nationwide, so check with your local CVS first. Here's what I'm planning to do:

Buy 2 CVS Diapers at $8.99 (average price, this may be different at your local CVS) = $17.98
Get one package of CVS diapers free
Buy 1 Aquafresh Toothpaste at $2.99
Subtotal = $20.97
Less $4/20 CVS welcome coupon
Less $3/10 CVS Brand coupon
Final total = $13.97
Less $10 ECS
$3.97 OOP
Get $2.99 ECBs

At least I'll get some ECBs, three packs of diapers and one toothpaste!

Thanks for visiting my blog today!

Free Beauty Samples & Sale at ELF Cosmetics

• Free sample of Aquaphor ointment (thanks to Want Not). Click on photo above.
  

• Free moisture block from Sabino salon here . About the product from Sabino Salon: "Finally! The only product that waterproofs and completely eliminates frizzy hair in any climate. Moisture control is the single most important factor in how your hair looks, feels and performs. Moisture Block gives you superior thermal protection. Because essential moisture is locked it, you will not "cook" your hair from too much blow drying or flat ironing. Not even chlorine can penetrate Moisture Block." OK, whoa...sounds like some strong stuff, but I'll try it!
  

• Free beauty samples from Univision.com, including Dove Go Fresh Body Mist, Pond's AntiWrinkle Cream and Degree for Women Deodorant, The forms are in Spanish, but it is pretty easy to decipher. If you still have trouble, use this free translation website.

• ELF (Eyes, Lips, Face) Cosmestics - 50% off any purchase of $15 with coupon code CAROLINA. The maximum discount you will get is $7.50, so try to stay at or under $15. I tried the code today and it still works. Most of the items are $1 so if you need to stock up on makeup, this is a good deal. If you are going to spend more than $40, you can also get a free $25 restaurant.com gift certificate with coupon code EGMOMEF. A friend of mine also told me that Elf products has been bought out by Nordstrom's so the whole line will be re-packaged with the Nordstrom name on it. So get it now before the price goes up!

Thanks for visiting my blog today!

FREE FOOD! McDonald's Chicken Sandwich, Dippin' Dots, Melting Pot, Macaroni Grill and more!

McDonalds - Free Southern Style Chicken Biscuit or Southern Style Chicken sandwich with the purchase of a medium drink (thanks to The Centsible Sawyer!). Offer valid on Thursday, May 15. Grab a free biscuit in the AM, then head back later for your free sandwich - spend a little over $1 each time! I've personally tried both of these - I lean towards the chicken sandwich which tastes almost as good as Chick-Fil-A (love this place!). If they have sweet tea at your McDonald's, try it too - you'll get a nice taste of the South!

Dippin' Dots - Celebrate their 20th birthday on Tuesday, May 20 with a free cup of Birthday Cake flavored ice cream (thanks to The Centsible Sawyer). Valid from 4 p.m. until closing.

Baskin Robbins - Expectant moms can try Baskin Robbin's new soft serve ice cream in honor of “Bump Day," Wednesday, May 21. Just click here to print out the page for your free ice cream. Valid from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and only at participating stores in California, Chicago, New York, Nashville, TN and El Paso, TX, so make sure you call your local store first.

Auntie Anne's Pretzels - Get a coupon for a free pretzel from May 10th through June 12th by texting the word “pretzel” to the number 70734. You’ll then get a coupon good for a free Auntie Anne’s Pretzel. Check first to make sure your local Auntie Anne's is offering this promotion (thanks to Hey, It's Free)

The Melting Pot - Get a free Chocolate Fondue for Two when you signup for their Club Fondue here. (Kristin - this is for you!!) This would be a perfect after-dinner dessert!

Macaroni Grill - Complimentary appetizer when you sign up for their Mac Pack Club here. By the way, they have great Italian food here!

Happy eating, and thanks for visiting my blog today!

Deals for Life Water, Sierra Mist & Nature Made PLUS Online Shopping Codes for Babystyle, H&M, Old Navy

Coupons and freebies of the day

• Life Water - Buy 1, Get 1 Free coupon here. This would be a good filler at CVS as they are offering $1 ECB when you buy two (on sale for $1.49 at most CVS stores).
  
• Sierra Mist Undercover (Sierra Mist with a splash of Mandarin flavor) - Buy 2, get 1 Free coupon here
• Nature Made Liquid Softgels Vitamins - Free 14 day sample supply of your choice here

Online Shopping Deals

• Babystyle - Get an extra 25% on items from their Spring sale and outlet sale. Enter code 25EXTRA. Ends May 13, 2008.
  
• H&M - Get 20% off a purchase of $60 or more by signing up on their website here
  
• Old Navy - Get an extra 15% off clearance items using code EXTRA15OFF. Valid May 12-14, 2008.
  

CVS Scenarios Week of 5/11-5/17

Here are some good CVS scenarios for this week - some I figured out, others from my favorite money saving blogs. Check out Scenario #1 - you can also get a rebate for up to $9.99 for Centrum Cardio, making this deal even better. Have a great week of shopping at CVS!

Combo scenarios
Scenario 1 - Free Vitamins (via Rebate) and CVS Allergy Meds
Buy 3 CVS brand Allergy medication @ $3.79 each
Buy 1 Centrum Cardio $9.99
Use $3/10 off CVS brand coupon
Use $3 off Centrum coupon from Sunday paper
Spend $15.36
Earn $12.37 ECBs * ($11.37 for allergy meds, $1 for Centrum Cardio)
* Rebate: Save your receipt to receive a rebate of up to $9.99 from Centrum here (Only valid for Centrum Cardio)

Scenario 2 - Diapers, Wipes & Allergy Relief
Buy 1 $7.99 Huggies diapers (in Southern California, Huggies are on sale for $7.99!)
Buy 3 CVS Non Drowsy Allergy Relief @ $3.79
Buy .99 CVS travel wipes
Use $4/$20 Welcome coupon
Use $3 off $10 CVS Brand CRT from coupon printer
Use $2 off Huggies coupon from recent newspaper insert
Spend $11.35
Earn $11.37 ECBs ($11.37 for allergy meds)

Scenario 3: Sunscreen on the Cheap (from Be Thrifty Like Us)
Buy 1 Colgate toothpaste $2.99
Buy 2 Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Sunscreens $17.98
Use $4/$20 coupon
Use $1.00 Colgate coupon from Sunday paper
Spend $15.97
Earn $12 ECBs ($2.00 for Colgate + $10 for Hawaiian Tropic)
Final cost for 2 Bottles of Sunscreen & 1 Toothpaste $3.97!

Scenario 4: Essentials - Toothpaste & Razor
Buy 4 Crest toothpaste $3.99 each
Buy Glide Floss 2 for $5
Buy 1 Schick Intution Razor
Use 4 Crest toothpaste $1.00 coupons from Sunday paper
Use 1 Glide floss $1 coupon from Sunday paper
Use $4 Schick coupon from Sunday paper
Use $4/20 CVS coupon
Spend $16.88
Earn: $16 ECBs ($10 for Crest products, $6 for razor)

Scenario 5: Candy Fix
Buy 2 Hershey's Bliss @ $4.29 each
Buy 1 Jolly Ranchers @ $1.50 (2 for $3)
Use B1G1 Hershey's Bliss coupon from Sunday paper
Use 2 $1 off Hershey's Bliss coupons from Reinventing Beauty Magazine
Spend $3.79
Earn $5 ECBs

Simple & Easy ECB Scenarios (all from Money Saving Mom)
Scenario 1: Allergy Relief
Buy 3 CVS Non Drowsy Allergy Relief (Monthly ECB deal) at $3.79 each
Use $3/10 CVS Brand Coupon
Spend $8.37 plus tax
Get $11.37 in ECBs

Scenario 2: Colgate Toothpaste
Buy 5 Colgates at $2.99 each
Use $3/$15 coupon
Use 5 $1/1 coupon
Spend $6.94 plus tax
Get $10 ECBs

Scenario 3: Viactiv
Buy 3 Viactivs at $5.49 each
Use $3/$15 CVS coupon
Use 3 $2/1 Viactiv coupons
Spend $7.47 plus tax
Get $9 ECBs!

Thanks for visiting my blog today!

Home Improvement Coupons : $10 off $100 at Home Depot - Signup with Home Depot Clinics and Workshops and $10 off $25 purchase at Lowes

If you register and attend an upcoming class at Home Depot on May 19, they will give you a $10 off $100 coupon valid from May 19 to June 2. Check out this link for details.

Also, if you register for Home Depot's Garden Club, they will send you special offers. I recently received a coupon for a buy one, get one free flowering hanging basket.

Register here to get a coupon for a $10 off $25 purchase at Lowes when you use your Visa card.

Free Roadside Emergency Kit (Thanks to imommies!)

Check out this great deal from imommies.com on how to get a free roadside emergency kit from buy.com. Just follow her instructions - it's very easy! If you live in California, you'll have to pay tax, but it ended to be just $0.72 cents.

Online Shopping Deals - Disney Outlet, Sears, Kohls and more

Here are some deals for your weekend shopping pleasure. Make sure when you shop online, you go through either Coupon Cactus or Ebates to get money back for your purchases!

The Disney Outlet online is having a HUGE sale - up to 80% off. Try using this online promo code from retailmenot.com SITE20 which is supposed to give you an additional 20% off through May 15. (Update: The code is only good for disneyshopping.com, not the outlet, sorry!). Some great deals that I saw include:

• Costumes - $3.99 for Jo Jo's Circus; Stitch Alien Costume for $5.99; Tinkerbell Fairy costume for $9.99; Nemo Costume for $9.99; Power Ranger Costume for $9.99; Jasmine Costume for $17.99; Belle Costume for $17.99; and infant costumes (Squirt, Piglet, Thumper, etc.) are $6.99 to $9.99. There are also plenty of accessories, such as princess crowns and wands, to go with these costumes that are priced as low as $5.99. Stock up now for Halloween or for pretend play!
  
• Backpacks and lunch bags are $3.99 to $9.99
• Special collection lamps are $5.99
• Sleepwear - Velvet Princess Nightgowns (Ariel, Sleeping Beauty, Jasmine) are $2.99; Select boys pajamas are $2.99.
• Toys - Ratatoullie Activity Set for $1.99; Pirates of the Carribean action figures for $2.99
  

Sears is having a Footwear Friday sale where most shoes are up to 50% off. And since it's Mother's Day weekend, all women's shoes are on sale. The lowest sale prices I found on women's shoes were $9.99. Sandals were $14.99 to $29.99 - a pretty good price for sandals. I picked the one on the left (I Love Comfort - Jada in Brown) which is now $29.99.

Kohls also has an up to 50% shoe sale this weekend. Use this code from retailmenot.com NEW5459 to get an additional 10% off (the code is reportedly working; if not, check the website for another code or go to rather-be-shopping.com to look for another one).

Joann's Fabrics - Use this online coupon code SED131 to get 40% off your online order through May 11.

Boden USA - I absolutely love their line of kids clothing, "Mini Boden." The clothing is kind of expensive (regularly $28 for an appliqued tee), but the quality is top rate and the designs are whimsical and fun. And when they have a sale, it's a good one. This weekend it is up to 35% off their spring collection. Use this code from retailmenot.com XL827105 that offers 10% off plus free shipping.

Happy shopping!

My Favorite CVS Finds

Buying sales items at CVS has really opened my eyes to a wealth of products and brands that I would have never tried had they not been on sale and offered those appealing ECBs (Extra Credit Bucks). Here are my favorite new items at CVS that I am so glad to have found!

CVS Training Pants: To me, these training pants are comparable to Pampers Easy Ups. They fit snugly on my daughter, and most importantly, they don't leak. It's actually very absorbent! No, they don't have cute characters like Dora, Cars or Princesses - just a generic bunch of happy cartoon kids. But they work well, and have saved me from changing a lot of wet pants!

Playskool Wipes: I was a huge fan of Costco baby wipes until there was a sale of these wipes at CVS. These wipes are pretty thick, a bit quilted and smell GREAT. It also comes unscented for sensitive skin and noses.

Bio Oil: I had read about Bio-Oil before, and decided to try it when it went on sale for $9.99 at CVS. Bio Oil is a skincare product that helps to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. It also is said to help dry skin. I have acne scars from a bad habit of picking, so I decided to give it a go. Although my acne scars have not completely disappeared (I am seriously a bad picker), my skin has never felt softer and smoother. I use it in place of my daily moisturizer - it's just that good. And a little goes a long way - I've had it for a few months now, and there is still more than half in the bottle! You may also think that since it's oil, you will break out - not true, at least for me. I have never had a breakout using Bio Oil - ever.

Skin Effects Enzyme Scrub: Again, the only reason I bought this was because we needed cleanser and CVS was offering $5 ECBs with each purchase. This enzyme scrub works really well for me -the microbeads help slough off the dead skin and make your skin feel incredibly smooth. It's regularly priced at $6.99 - much less than the scrubs I used to buy from department stores.

Sunsilk: I absolutely LOVE Sunsilk's line of styling cremes, especially for dry, course hair (which I have). I am a big fan of Straighten Up - it has truly tamed my big head of crazy hair. It smells fresh and clean too! You can use it when your hair is wet or dry - either way, it works great!

Do you have a favorite product that you've finally discovered at CVS that you'd like to share? Please let us know in the comments section!

Thanks for reading my blog today!

Deals of the Day: Coupons and Freebies

Freebies

• Free taco from Del Taco here (you must answer a fun question first)
  
• Free product and coupons from Kahiki Frozen Foods when you sign-up for their Supper Club newsletter here
• Free coffee sample 1.1 oz from Dunkin Dounuts Coffee here
• Free sample of Quaker Simple Harvest - choose either a granola bar or packet of oatmeal
• Two free coupons a free Ensure 8-fl-oz shake and one for savings on the many flavors and varieties of Ensure six-packs. Click here
• Free shampoo from Medistasto here

Coupons

• Cottonelle coupons here

$45 from ShareBuilder (ING)

Check out imommies blog today about how to receive $45 per family member by signing up for ShareBuilder (part of ING Direct). I did this a few weeks ago, but the promotion was for $25. It worked fine, and imommies offers detailed instructions on how to do it. Click here to learn more.

More Retail Deals for Your Rebate Check - Old Navy, Circuit City, Lowe's and CVS

Here's yet another list of more retailers who want you to spend that tax rebate check. However, as the old saying goes, don't put all your eggs in one basket - same here, be careful of putting all your rebate check in one store. According to CBS online, "Plenty of retailers are offering special deals for rebate spending. Both Sears and Kroger, for example, are adding a 10% bonus when you turn your entire rebate into store gift cards. That's a great deal IF you were already planning on a big-ticket purchase there. But be wary of tying up your entire rebate in one store."

And the Seattle Post Intelligencer online also suggests that consumers read deals carefully to make sure there aren't any associated fees with getting a store gift card and if any products are excluded from the promotion. For example, RadioShack will let you convert only a part of your check and also requires that you put the remaining balance on a Vision Silver Prepaid MasterCard. After a little investigating, the Seattle Post Intelligencer found that these prepaid cards carry maintenance and other fees - Vision Silver charges a monthly service fee of $3.95, ATM balance inquiry fee of .95 cents, live agent fee of $1.95 per call and PIN decline fee of .45 cents.

As they say, always read the fine print!

Old Navy: I received an e-mail alert offering $10 off a purchase of $50, and $15 off a purchase of $75. You first have to go to the store to get your coupon from May 2-15 and then you can redeem it from May 27-June 5 (in-store purchases only). I'm not sure if you have to spend something first to get the coupon, but I'll report back since I have to go to Old Navy today anyway. **UPDATE**: In order to get this coupon, you need to first spend $50 or $75, then get a $10 or $15 coupon to use on your next visit. Not such a good deal to me, in my opinion!

Circuit City: Circuit City will accept stimulus checks as a form of payment, however, any remaining balance will be returned to shoppers as Circuit City gift cards. Again, check here if any additional rates apply.

Shoppers Food & Pharmacy: The company will convert the rebate checks into store gift cards worth up to $300, adding $30 on each card. Valid until July 31.

CVS Caremark Corp., is offering its loyalty card customers $5 off on a $30 purchase. (Source: Associated Press). I believe this was the one that was e-mailed this week - I already used mine!

Lowe's: Mailed an offer last Wednesday to its most active shoppers offering $10 off their next $50 purchase or $25 off their next $200 purchase when they turn their checks into its "project starter" cards. (Source: Associated Press)

Feeling Lucky? Try these cool contests!

I was inspired by Good Cents' blog on Sunday Sweepstakes (check out her list of fun and fabulous contests to enter too), so I decided to look around for some more. Want to win $1,000, a 2008 Honda Odyssey or even $5,000 in cash? Check out the following and good luck!

• Enter to win the grand prize of a smart for two Mercedes car, $1,000 or a Purex gift basket by designing a T-shirt with an eco-friendly slogan at Purex.com. My sister and I had a lot of fun with this one (she's very creative). You design the T-shirt online and can enter once a week. And you get a free sample of Purex and a coupon just for entering. Ends 6/1/08.
• Enter to win the grand prize of $5,000, a weekly prize of $100 and $100 grilling package or a daily prize of $100 and $25 gift certificate for Bettycrocker.com by entering the Great Grilling Giveaway from Betty Crocker. Ends 6/12/08.
  
• Enter to win a 2008 Honda Odyssey from MyPoints.com. It's a funny animated contest where you fill your car with groceries, soccer balls, kids or pets - you choose one - and then guess how many are in the car. You must signup with Mypoints.com if you're not already a member (it's free).

CVS Scores for the week of April 28

I'm joining the CVS Superstars show over at the "Cent"sible Sawyer's blog for the first time! I really did well at CVS this week, especially in earning more ECBs and working my $3 of $15 and $4 off $20 coupons. Here's what I got:

Transaction #1
2 All Free & Clear Detergents B1g1 at $6.49
4 Essence of Beauty Single Applicators (buy 1, get 50% off second) $5.96
2 Cover Girl TruBlend Whipped Foundation $18.98
1 Ice Cubes Kiwi Watermelon Gum (for my daughter and my sanity while shopping) $1.19
Total: $32.62
Less Coupons
-$9.49 B1G1 coupon for Covergirl
- $1.00 off All coupon
- $1.00 off All coupon
- $2.00 Covergirl coupon (from Reinventing Beauty magazine)
- $2.00 Covergirl coupon (from Reinventing Beauty magazine)
- $3.00 off $15 CVS coupon
- $4.00 off $20 CVS Beauty purchase coupon
- $10.00 ECBs
Final OOP: $0.21 cents
Earned: $17 in ECBs ($5 for Essence of Beauty deal, $12 for Covergirl)

Since this worked so well, and I really needed detergent, I went back for:
Transaction #2
2 All Free & Clear Detergents B1g1 at $6.49
2 Essence of Beauty Single Applicators (buy 1, get 50% off second) $2.98
2 Essence of Beauty Round Sponges (buy 1, get 50% off second) $4.48
2 Cover Girl TruBlend Whipped Foundation $18.98
Total: $32.93
Less Coupons
-$9.49 B1G1 coupon for Covergirl
- $1.00 off All coupon
- $1.00 off All coupon
- $2.00 Covergirl coupon (from Reinventing Beauty magazine)
- $2.00 Covergirl coupon (from Reinventing Beauty magazine)
- $3.00 off $15 CVS coupon
- $4.00 off $20 CVS Beauty purchase coupon
- $10.00 ECBs
Final OOP: $3.16 cents
Earned: $11 in ECBs ($5 for Essence of Beauty deal, $6 for Covergirl as I reached my 3 limit max)

I don't know why I paid more the second time around (it could have been the way they entered the coupons and the tax, I don't know), but I am happy anyway. I spent $3.37 OOP, used $20 in ECBs and earned $28 in ECBs for my next trip. Not too bad!

Note: My sister took some of the Essence of Beauty products which is why there are fewer shown in the picture! Also, the gum didn't last long in my daughter's possession, so no picture of that either!

Ralph's Deals for the Week of April 30 - May 6

I'm behind in getting these out, but better late than never, right?! Also note that in some of the 2 for $4, $5 or $6 sales below, I only did a discount for one item as my Ralph's only doubles on the first coupon for multiple items. If your Ralph's doubles both, you'll get a much better deal (lucky you!). Also check out more grocery deals at Ralph's from The Green Stew and Starting to Save.

Meat & Poultry
Note: If you are a member of Ralph's Club, they just sent out coupons for $1.50 off $5 purchase of poultry which would work great on the chicken breast sale below.

• Chicken Breasts .99 cents/lb
• Center Cut Pork Chops $2.99/lb
• T-Bone Steaks $3.99/lb

Grocery

• Dole Juice Blends 2 for $4. Buy 1 at $2, less .50 cent recent coupon, less .50 for doubling = final price of $1.00
• Sargento Shredded Cheese 2 for $5. Buy 1 at $2.50, less $1 off recent coupon, less $1 for doubling = final price of .50 cents
• Guerrero Tortillas are .99 cents - no coupon, but a good deal on tortillas, and you can make some quesadillas for the week with the shredded cheese above.
• Mission Tortilla Chips (brown bag) 2 for $5. Buy 1 at $2.50, less .75 cent recent coupon, less .75 cent for doubling = final price of $1.00
• General Mills Cereal are on sale 2 for $4, less $1 recent coupon, less $1 double = Final price $2 for 2 boxes of cereal
• Rosarita Refried Beans 10 for $10 - again, no coupon but $1 per can is a good deal

Household

• Airwick Neutra Air Freshmatic Kits are 50%. At most stores, they are now $5.99, less $4 recent coupon, less $1 for doubling = final price of .99 cents. FYI these work great in the bathroom and near your trash cans!

Produce
Note: If you are a member of Ralph's Club, they have also sent a coupon for $1.50 off $5 for produce. This will work well with the specials listed below:

• Lettuce 10 for $10
• Fuji Apples 2 lbs for $3
• Carrots (loose) 10 for $10
• Green Onions 2 for $1
• Fresh Express Salad is 2 for $6. Buy1 at $3, less .50 cent recent coupon, less .50 cent for doubling = final price of $2

And since the chicken breasts are on sale for $0.99 cents a pound and the pork chops are $2.99 a pound, here are two recipes for Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas (just in time for Cinco de Mayo) and Glazed Pork Chops. Enjoy!

Green Chile Chicken Enchildas
6-8 chicken breasts (with ribs attached)
1 small bunch of cilantro, chopped
1 small bunch of green onions, chopped (save 1T for topping)
2 cloves of garlic, minced and chopped
Powdered chicken bouillion (I used Maggi brand)
1 package (16 oz) of shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
24-36 count package of corn tortillas
1 large can of green chile enchilada sauce (I use Las Palmas)
juice of 2 limes
Corn oil for frying
Salt and pepper to taste

Put chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water. Add salt and boil until cooked (about 20 - 25 minutes). Remove chicken from pot and leave remaining chicken stock in pot. Shred chicken and return back to the stock. Add garlic, juice of 2 limes, chopped cilantro, chopped green onion and about 2 tablespoons of powdered chicken bouillion. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 5-10 minutes so that all flavors blend together. Add salt and pepper and more bouillion to taste. Set aside.

Simmer green chile enchilada sauce in another pot. Once heated, spread some sauce on the bottom of a large baking pan.

Fry tortillas in hot oil (a few seconds on each side) until crispy. Drop in green chile sauce until well coated. Line one layer of fried tortillas on the bottom of the baking pan. Layer shredded chicken mixture on top of tortillas (make sure to drain liquid first). Sprinkle cheese over chicken. Repeat layers of tortillas, shredded chicken and cheese. On last layer, top with any leftover green chile sauce, cheese and green onions.

Heat in 350 degree oven for 10-15 minutes until cheese melts. Remove and cool for about 15 minutes. Serves 10-12.
Glazed Pork Chops
Recipe courtesy Oldenberg Brewing Company
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper, crushed
1-ounce white vinegar
1 ounce hoisin sauce
1-ounce sesame oil
2 center cut pork chops, 6 ounces each

Combine the first 5 ingredients in a food processor. Preheat a wood-fire grill. Brush the pork chops with the glaze and cook over the wood-fire grill.