Super Bowl XLV Recliner Giveaway - WIN a FREE Black Leather Recliner by Mac Motion Chairs! Pin It

Super Bowl XLV is coming up. Only two teams remain - the Pittsburg Steelers and Green Bay Packers.

Which team do you think will win the Super Bowl?

I have no doubt that some of my readers will be watching that big game with family and/or friends. Now you have a chance of watching  your favorite team play (and win) from one of the nicest looking reclining chairs on the market in the Super Bowl XLV Recliner Giveaway.

Ok  I admit that I am NOT a big football fan but I sure wouldn’t mine winning one of these leather recliner and ottoman beauties for myself… although I have a feeling my husband would snag it as his own.   So what do you need to do to win one of those beauties?

If you can guess the final score correctly, you can enter for your chance to WIN a Black Leather Recliner* by Mac Motion Chairs (like the one shown in the photo above). The recliner features black leather upholstery, ergonomic ottoman, 360 degree swivel, and a multi-position adjustable recline - perfect for watching the Super Bowl.

*The winner will receive a $399 USD Gift Certificate for GoRecliners.com to use towards the purchase of the Black 7292 Series Leather Swivel Recliner with Ottoman by Mac Motion Chairs.

Want to Win one of those recliners?

Well you can’t win if you don’t enter!

So be sure to go here to find out more about the giveaway as well as all the details on how to enter and what to include in your blog post: Super Bowl XLV Recliner Giveaway - WIN a FREE Black Leather Recliner by Mac Motion Chairs!

The deadline for entries is Saturday, February 5, 2011, at Midnight, PST.

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Blockbuster Express: Free Rental Code Pin It

Rent a FREE DVD at any Blockbuster Express now through Thursday, February 3rd with code 28CHD4X. Limit one use per credit card.

Find a kiosk near you. 

(remember it’s only free if you remember to return it the next day)

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January is National Oatmeal Month & I have some Oatmeal to giveaway to 10 Readers!! Pin It

This giveaway is now closed!

Not just any ol’ oatmeal. This is the really good stuff!.  It’s  Better Oats instant oatmeal!! So what makes this oatmeal  the really good stuff in  my book? For one thing, the texture of it is not like other instant oatmeal. The flavors are true flavors. You can really taste the apple and cinnamon and see those apples in the mix!  The Dark Chocolate variety is to die for! Yum-O! Not only is this oatmeal good tasting, it’s good for you!  It’s good for your heart and health in general. You can read more about the health benefits of oatmeal. I had the opportunity to try out this brand of oatmeal for the first time in April of 2010. You can read my review post here: Who knew Oatmeal could taste soooo good!

I still stand by that review as this oatmeal is awesome! Even my children were wanting more of it.   I have bought a few boxes since then but don’t buy it often as the closest store to us that carries it is an hour away. That makes me sad. I hope other stores in the area start carrying this awesome oatmeal!

If you would like to know more about this brand of oatmeal, you can read the Press Release from the company below:


Now for the  GIVEAWAY!
Courtesy of the company, I am giving a case of Better Oats instant oatmeal (which is one month’s supply) to ten of my readers (10 different winners).

NOTE: All entries must be in the form of a comment on THIS post. To leave a comment, scroll to the bottom of this post and click the “Add Comment” link.

Mandatory Entry:

• Visit the Better Oats instant oatmeal site and pick out the flavor(s) that appeal to you the most – then come back here and leave me a comment telling me which one(s) you like.
• Remember….Your comment must contain a way that I can contact you if you are the winner otherwise another winner will be chosen.

Additional Optional Entries:

• Follow this blog via Facebook Networked Blogs
• Follow Laura Williams' Musings on Twitter
• Subscribe via email to Laura Williams' Musings

(If you already do the three optional entries, just leave an extra comment stating which of those you do (up to 3 extra comments).

All in all, you have 4 chances to win a case of oatmeal.

Giveaway Information:

• The give away will be open until midnight EST Monday, January 31, 2011 Winner will be announced by Wednesday, February 2, 2011.
• Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry as stated above.
• Winner will be chosen at random using random.org!
• Please leave a way for me to contact you in your entry otherwise another winner will be chosen.
• Winners have 72 hours to respond to the email sent to them. Failure to do so will result in an alternate winner being drawn at random.
• NOTE: This giveaway is offered to US Residents only. The winner’s case of oatmeal will be shipped directly from the company.

Good Luck!

I received this product free for the purpose of reviewing same.  No other compensation was received for this review. The opinions expressed in this review are my personal and honest opinion.  Your experience with product may vary.

Posts May Contain Affiliate Links, Read my Disclosure Policy

Keeping Track of What is in Your Pantry (or Stockpile) Pin It

I posted about this over on WeUseCoupons.com Keeping Track of What You Have in Your Pantry (or stockpile) but thought I would share the information here on my blog too as it’s too good to not pass it on.

Do you keep track of what's in your pantry (or stockpile)?

How do you keep track? What method do you use.

 

I have been keeping a pantry inventory list for many years using the supply list portion of the a cd I have that is "Cooking Light". You have to manually input the information, you can click it to alphabetize it, etc. Then print out a list. I then mark off what I use, and ever so often update the list and reprint it.

However in the freezer discussion thread at WeUseCoupons, FarmGirl1971 posted about how she used a downloaded pantry freeware and a UPC scanner to keep track of her pantry inventory. She uses  a library software and the scanner to keep track of her books, movies, dvds, and games as well.

The  pantry inventory freeware she referred to can be downloaded from here http://www.cheaphomesteading.com/ (just follow the directions to set it up, etc.) and you’ll have the basic set up ready to go in a few minutes.

While trying to decide if I wanted to continue with this way of pantry inventory and before buying a barcode Scanner, I was hand keying products into the software to see how it functioned, etc. and to see if I liked it.

I LIKE IT!!

I took the plunge and ordered a barcode Scanner on the 24th from Amazon and it should be here in 3-5 business days.  I used a couple of amazon gift cards I earned through Swagbucks to help pay for it and shipping, then used a $20 check I received to pay for the rest.

Hubby has been  laughing at me but I told him, "If it helps me to keep the kitchen running smoothly, knowing exactly what we have, it's worth it, right?"  He agreed. So I ordered the scanner from Amazon.  In reality, it will help me to not only  keep track of what items I have food wise but also the items we have that are non-food. That means I’ll know what we have in our stockroom too (all the hba stuff, laundry stuff, etc.).  I am stoked! I don't think I've ever been this excited about doing pantry inventory.  

I did read on the discussion forum and support link found on the cheaphomesteading link referenced above and found out how to add more categories too the program so that it allows me to have more options in adding a new product as well as editing the product.  If you decide to set up the software for the pantry inventory and want to add more categories, here's how to do it: Homesteading Today - View Single Post - Prep Tracking.  Be sure you do that to the addnew.php file AND the editproduct.php files so that your new categories are in both sections of the progam.    I added new categories as well as put them alphabetical order which made it easier to find them when adding new upc's to the database.

Oh if any others make homecanned items, dehydrate, etc. There's information on that link for the pantry inventory of how to print out our own upc's codes.  You’ll need a barcode creator to make them. I downloaded the free demo as mentioned on the cheaphomesteading link: Barcode Label Generator (demo) – it’s free. However it does have the word demo at the top of the label but I can live with that.

Another poster on the discussion thread  gave this idea for upc's you make for your home preserved items... a reusable upc tag:
Homesteading Today - View Single Post - Prep Tracking   Basically the idea is to use pieces of index card to put the homemade upc on and punch a hole in it, tie on string and put around the jar band. Voila! reusable upc tags.  I LOVE THAT IDEA!

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Book Review: The King Will Make a Way by Lee Giles Pin It

The King Will Make a Way: a story for the last days saint Author: Lee Giles Publisher: CreateSpace (December 8, 2010) ISBN-10: 1456339311 ISBN-13: 978-1456339319

It’s been a good amount of time since I’ve had a book rivet me to my seat as this one did. 

Using the Book of Revelation from the Holy Bible as the seeming undertone for this book, the author tells the story of Vulpine’s, who compared to the Bible is Lucifer – the Anti-Christ of the Book of Revelation, rise to the throne and his destructive manner that he bewitches the villagers with and his ultimate demise.

This book is not meant to be a replacement for the Bible but rather an outreach to others to encourage them to live for God no matter how long they live.

You can read Chapter One of this wonderful book online.

Free materials for your homeschool to use with your study of the book are available on the authors site at this link:  For Homeschoolers.

The book is available in Paperback as well as a version for Kindle.

Book Synopsis:

The King Will Make a Way is a new Christian novel for the last days saint.

An allegorical tale set in a nondescript historic village, The King Will Make a Way, is an end-times story of faith and perseverance. Gabe is the only one who knows the truth–the true King is still alive. Vulpine is determined to become king himself and will stop at nothing to force the villagers to give him their loyalty.

Will the servants of the true King fight to overthrow Vulpine? When the servants face imprisonment and death, will they switch loyalties? What will become of Gabe when Vulpine realizes he’s been teaching others about the King? Where is the true King?

Living through the daily uncertainty of plague, persecution and even martyrdom, the servants of the true King learn that there is one thing they can always be sure of–The King Will Make a Way.

It is my prayer that this book will challenge you and inspire you, not only to walk by faith but to give yourself wholly to following the King.

Read what others have to say about this book: Reviews

 

About the Author:

Lee Giles is a homeschool mother of five young children. Mrs. Giles and her family have been serving the Lord overseas and living among the Roma (often known as the Gypsies) in Macedonia and in a country in the Middle East since May of 2002.

Read more about the Author and her journey in writing this book at: http://thekingwillmakeaway.wordpress.com/about-the-author/

 

 

 

Disclosure:  I received this book free from the publisher  for the purpose of reviewing same.  No other compensation was received for this review. The opinions expressed in this review are my personal and honest opinion.  Your experience with product may vary.

Posts May Contain Affiliate Links, Read my Disclosure Policy

My Coupon Binder – The Sub-Categories Pin It

Ellen sent me an email with this request and comment:

“I love your post to your blog about how to set up a coupon binder.  I am new to couponing and am setting up my binder now.  I have a request from you - I love the way you organize your "sub categories" - example:  under dairy - eggs, sour cream, etc.  Is there any way you could send me a list of the sub categories within each category?  I have a label maker and plan to set it up like yours.  I think that is so organized and will be easy to find what I need.  I hope you possibly already have this list and it's not a lot of work for you.  Photos of each page would be fine too if that's easier for you.
Thanks, in advance!
Ellen Kingery”

Ellen,

My binder of choice: Case-It D185 4" D ring binder

Here is one photo of a page in my binder that shows sub-categories:

My sections with the sub-categories are as follows:

• Store pages – these are 4 pocket pages I made using page protectors. I slipped in a piece of thin cardboard and then using a sewing machine I sewed down the middle and across the middle. Then used a craft knife to open the bottom pockets just under the sewn middle line on the front and back of the page. So there are 4 pockets on each side.  I use the type pages to put my rainchecks in and coupons I know I am going to use at that store.
  • Store pages consist of the stores I have in my area such as:
  • Bi-Lo
  • CVS
  • Food Lion
  • Publix
  • Target
  • Kroger
  • etc. (these are alphabetized in my binder)

Here’s a photo of what I’m describing for the individual store pages with labeled pockets:

• Store cards – this page or two holds the extra store cards I have as most of them are either on my key ring or in dh’s wallet.  I do not have 2 card accounts for any store. That is actually against many store policies and I have no need for an extra store card account as one card account gets the deals just fine. What I am talking about though is the extra card you may have from that one account. A store usually will give you two key tags and a wallet card.  These pages hold the extra key tag or wallet card that dh doesn’t want to carry with him.  I will hand them those when I give him a list and a set of coupons if he’s going to be near that particular store so he has no need to carry all the store cards with him.
• .
• Rebates & Refund Forms – this is a 2 page category and just holds the forms for rebates and refunds on items.  Easier to carry them with me to see the requirements than to guess at what they are
• .
• Baby  – this was a 2 page category
  • sub-categories (in this case) labeled pockets are for:
  • Misc. Diapers
  • Misc. Wipes
  • Huggies Wipes
  • Huggies Diapers
  • Huggies GoodNights
  • Huggies Pull Ups
  • Pampers Easy Ups
  • Pamper Wipes
  • Pamper Diapers
  • another page was used for baby food, formula, etc. but I no longer use those so I removed the page and pass those coupons on to my daughter
  • .
• Baking  – this is a 2 page category
  • sub-categories (in this case) labeled pockets are for:
  • Vinegar
  • Baking Chips
  • Oils & Sprays
  • sugar
  • Spices
  • baking mixes
  • cookie mixes
  • cake mixes and icing
  • and there are empty pockets that I will put in coupons on yeast, cornstarch, etc. when I have them.
  • .
• Beverages – this is a 2 page category
  • sub-categories (in this case) labeled pockets are for:
  • tea
  • juices
  • hot cocoa
  • water
  • coffee
  • soft drinks
  • empty pockets are used to put coupons in for things like koolaid, coffee creamers, etc.
  • .
• Canned  – this is a 4  page category – Condiments are now in with this category
  • sub-categories (in this case) labeled pockets are for:
    • pasta sauces
    • salsa
    • salad dressing
    • ketchup
    • mayo
    • mustard
    • peanut butter
    • jams & jellies
    • soups
    • marinades & hot sauces
    • canned meats (tuna, etc.)
    • canned vegetables
    • canned fruits
    • pickles and relishes
    • some of the above have two pockets to keep from ripping one pocket with too many coupons
      • there are empty pockets for misc. items like manwich, evaporated milk (although this could go into the baking section too)
      • .
• Cereals & Breakfast Items (cereals sorted by brand) – this is a 2 page category
  • sub-categories (in this case) labeled pockets are for:
    • cereal bars
    • oatmeal
    • syrups
    • breakfast drinks
    • breakfast mixes
    • misc. brand cereals
    • kellogg’s brand cereals
    • General Mills cereals
    • Post Cereals
      • the cereal ones have 2 and some 3 pockets for those as there are usually a lot of those coupons
      • .
• Cleaning Supplies  – this is a 4 page category
  • sub-categories (in this case) labeled pockets are for:
    • dusting stuff
    • window cleaners
    • floor cleaners
    • toilet cleaners
    • shower cleaners
    • all purpose cleaners
    • dish soap
    • scrubbers
    • you could even make a pocket for dishwasher detergent and one for dishwasher rinse aids if you have a dishwasher
    • lysol spray as I usually have a few of those to make a separate pocket
    • fabric sprays
    • Airwick brand air fresheners and candles
    • Febreze brande air fresheners and candles
    • Glade Brand air fresheners and candles
      • some of the above have 2 and 3 pockets to accomodate the amount of coupons
      • .
• Dairy & Refrigerated – this is a 3 page category
  • sub-categories (in this case) labeled pockets are for:
    • 1 page is refrigerated drinks for items such as orange juice, teas, speciality milks like nesquik, hershey’s milkshakes, liquid coffee creamer, etc.
    • 1 page is actually a page protector I sewed down the middle and across and then cut the two bottom pockets open on the front for bigger coupons I sometimes get for organic valley, etc.
    • One of the pockets on the above page is for yogurt as I normally get quite a few coupons for yogurt
    • I also use one of the pockets to put refrigerated snacks in like the jello and pudding snacks
    • another page has sub-labeled pockets for:
      • cottage cheese
      • butter
      • sour cream
      • cheese
      • eggs
      • milk
    • of course there’s empty pockets to allow for other coupons
    • .
• Frozen Foods (with subsections) – 3 pages
  • sub-categories are:
    • one page is for frozen breakfast items & breads
    • one page is for frozen meals and appetizers
    • one page is for frozen desserts, ice cream, etc.
    • .
• Health & Beauty (with sub-sections)
  • This section has subsections and some of the sub-sections have labeled pockets (not all)
  • Feminine Care –  I just try to keep like brand items in a pocket – all tampax tampons in one, all playtex tampons in another, kotex pads in another, kotex pantiliners in another, etc.
  • .
  • Deodorants – again with the like brand items in one pocket
  • .
  • Facial Care – again with the like brand items in one pocket
  • .
  • Hair Care – this one has sub-labeled pockets of:
    • shampoo
    • conditioner
    • anti-dandruff care
    • all in one (Shampoo & Conditioner together)
    • Stylers
    • you could also have a pocket or two for hair coloring items if you use those
    • for coupons that are good on any shampoo, conditoner, or styler, I just put those in a separate pocket
    • .
  • Lotions – again with the like brand items in one pocket
  • .
  • Makeup – again with the like brand items in one pocket – all Covergirl in one, All Maybelline in another, etc.
  • .
  • Oral Care – sub-labeled pockets for:
    • toothpaste
    • toothbrushes
    • mouthwash
    • dental floss
    • whiteners, etc.
    • some labels have two pockets for them
    • .
  • Razors, etc. – pockets for that brand razor, pockets for shave gels or lotions, etc.
  • .
  • Soap & Body Washes – again with the like brand items in one pocket
  • .
  • First aid
    • pocket for bandages
    • pocket for bandaids
    • pocket for metamucil, gas-x,fiber one, etc.
    • Prevacid – Zantac – Prilosec itmes
    • first aid washes
    • eye drops
    • and empty pockets for overflow or misc. coupons
    • .
  • Cold Meds
    • like brand items are together such as Tylenol, Advil, etc. in separate pockets
    • there is also a pocket for cough drops
    • pocket for blistex, chapstick, etc.
    • pocket for Sinex or other nasal spray
    • and unlabeled pockets for overflow or misc. coupons
    • .
  • Pain Relievers – separated by brands
  • .
  • Supplements & Vitamins – 2 pages for this one and are separated by brands
  • .
• Laundry Care
  • sub-labeled pockets for:
    • laundry detergent
    • dryer sheets
    • liquid softener
    • laundry boosters
    • stain removers
    • and there are empty pockets I use for overflows
    • .
• Meats & Deli
  
  • I really don’t have sub-labeled pockets for this but rather just keep like items together – you could label them this way though:
    • lunch meats
    • bacon
    • sausage
    • hot dogs
    • and other pockets could accomodate items that you find in the meat cases like the Hormel ready to heat and eat meals, etc. '
    • .
• Miscellaneous (this is for clothing, toys,  non-grocery store like Jo-Ann’s, Michael’s , etc.) – usually take 3 pages for this one so I can keep it separated to see what I have
• .
• Paper & Plastic (with sub-labeled pockets) – 2 page category
  • facial tissue
  • napkins
  • cups
  • plates
  • plastic cutlery
  • bathroom wipes
  • toilet paper
  • paper towels
  • trash bags
  • plastic bags
  • plastic storage containers
  • plastic wrap
  • aluminum foil
  • wax paper or freezer paper (sometimes have to use two pockets for this one)
  • .
• Pasta & Rice
  • pasta uses 2 and sometimes 3 pockets
  • rice uses 2 and sometimes 3 pockets
  • I also keep the coupons for taco shells, tortillas, and such in this area too.
  • .
• Pets – Since we only have a couple of cats now, I keep only one page and have sub-labeled pockets for:
  • cat treats
  • dry cat food
  • wet cat food
  • and our cats are outside cats but I do sometimes have coupons for cat litter I keep for use on our icy steps in the winter… most times though I give these to a friend.
  • .
• Produce – just separated so I can see what I have – I do keep salad toppings here too like the Seasoned almonds, croutons, etc. and bagged salad coupons get kept in one pocket, etc.
  • I sometimes will put bread coupons in this section as it’s easier for me to just turn to that section when I enter the store as you are met with the produce there and some stores the bread is one aisle over – I don’t get many bread coupons though and used to put them in the Cereals & Breakfast section.
  • .
• Snacks & Candy – 2 page category with sub-labels for:
  • cookies
  • crackers
  • candy
  • nuts
  • chips
  • popcorn
  • .
• Restaurants -- easier for me to flip to the back of the binder is the only reason it's not in ABC order and I just keep the restaurant coupons separated in pockets so I can see what I have.

I hope that helps you Ellen in setting up your binder. 
For others interested in setting up a Coupon Binder, here is the link to my how-to article:  Laura's Couponing and Refunding Hints & Tips Plus Coupon Binder How-To
If you’re looking for a bigger binder or just a new one, check out my I got a new Binder for my Coupons! post to see the binder that replaced my old, worn out Mead binder I used for years.  You can see how much smaller the old binder was here on this post:  Comment from a Reader: Coupon Binder and BONUS: Woman's Day Article Featuring Me.


See this post for Sources for the binder inserts (9 pocket and more)

Posts May Contain Affiliate Links, Read my Disclosure Policy

How to Get More of a Particular Coupon Pin It

I received an email from a new reader asking this….

“Hi, I need Information, I'm a hairdresser and barter with a paper lady, I cut her hair and get the extra c/o inserts. the only problem is that there are only a few items I use. last week
I had 60 c/o of Wisk $1.00 off, which I can't use .
I need smart balance c/o s is there someone that I can trade for what I want ? is there a site ? Thanks Molly”

Hi Molly,

There are several different avenues to go about getting the coupons you do want.

You can order coupons from a coupon clipping service. They charge a minimal handling fee as their time for cutting the coupons.  That fee is usually 10% of the face value of the coupon. For an example the coupon may be a $1.00 and they would charge a .10 handling fee for it.

Aall the below sites offer coupons or rebate forms for handling fees, they DO NOT sell them.

• The Coupon Clippers
• Coupons By Dede
• Coupon Carryout
• Kuntry Klippers
• Lori's Coupon Shoppe
• The Q Hunter
• There are others out there too. Google “Coupon Clipping Service” and you’ll get more options to choose from.

You can also obtain extra coupons from ebay.com. Some are Buy Now options and others are auctions where you bid on them.

 

You can also find various forums on the internet that are geared toward couponing.  Many though, you’ll need to be a registered member with a certain number of posts before you can begin exchanging  coupons, etc.  I post at WeUseCoupons.com and there are trading rules there.  If you decide to join that forum or any forum, be sure you are familiar with the rules of the forum.

I hope that helped.

Posts May Contain Affiliate Links, Read my Disclosure Policy

Win a Eat Right America bundle(a $97 value!) Pin It

This giveaway is not hosted on this blog. Please see the following information on how to enter to win.

Click here to enter to Win an Eat Right America bundle featuring the following (a $97 value!):

• Eat For Health Two Book Set
• Eat For Health Book 1 Audio
• Eat Right America Nutritarian Handbook 
• Secrets to Healthy Cooking DVD
• Eating Like a Nutritarian DVD
• Eat Right America Food Pyramid Magnet
• A certificate with 4 licenses to Eat Right America Nutrition Prescription 

Press Release:

Healthy Changes for Healthy Weight

Need help developing healthier habits? Good health—and healthy weight—are about smart decision-making. Rather than hearing about what NOT to eat or fad diets, listen to positive successes that are truly changing people’s lives.  Dr. Joel Fuhrman shares his experiences in helping people create health by aiming for optimal nutrition. He is a board–certified family physician, author and nutritional researcher specializing in preventing and reversing disease through nutrition, and co-founder and chief medical officer of Eat Right America.

Let us know what steps you are taking toward healthy changes this year for a chance to win an Eat Right America bundle featuring some of their best-selling books, DVDs and assorted other special gifts: a $97 value! Simply enter a comment by January 31st and one lucky reader will be selected at random.

The motivating reasons Dr. Fuhrman’s patients make healthy weight a priority:

• Learning about the successes of others losing weight and reversing chronic disease, when all other diet methods have previously failed, triggers the desire to recommit to health.
• Discovering the science, logic and theory behind high-nutrient eating to remove addictive overeating provides the drive to get started.

The two biggest obstacles that stand in the way of motivation and determination to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight:

• Misinformation about food and nutrition indoctrinated at an early age.
• Allowing feelings and emotions to govern decision-making and food addictions to control behavior.

The top habits to adopt when trying to maintain a healthy weight:

• Focus on long-term health and not on immediate weight loss.
• Eat enough food volume with high-nutrient foods to remove the desire to overeat.
• Educate with the right information from the start.

Everyone can take steps toward being healthier with this knowledge:

• Our health is our greatest wealth.
• We can’t escape the biological laws of cause and effect. We must recognize that we can’t buy good health; we have to earn it with healthy eating and physical fitness.
• Good nutrition is not optional; it’s essential. Putting nutritional science into action allows us to take control of our health destiny.

Additionally, have tons of ideas for healthy meals during a cleanse and additional tips on Healthy Changes for Healthy Weight through Whole Foods’ new Health Starts Here program

Posts May Contain Affiliate Links, Read my Disclosure Policy

Win a Frank’s RedHot Scooter Cooler Pin It

This giveaway is not hosted here on my blog. Read the press release below on how to enter:

Press Release:

there’s no time to lose:

enter now to win this souped-up

scooter cooler for the big game celebration

 

It’s All you’ll need for game day – entries accepted until 11:59 pm edt january 31st

 

With preparations for the Big Game underway, it’s not too early to start planning your game day gathering. Just in time for the biggest tailgating party of the year, Frank’s® RedHot®, the secret ingredient in the original Buffalo wing recipe since 1964, offers fans a chance to win a pimped out Scooter Cooler that will make you the toast of the town. The bright red cooler features a cooler that doubles as a seat on this motorized scooter which has the ability to reach speeds of up to ten miles an hour. The limited edition, Frank’s RedHot Scooter Cooler, features plenty of room to store your favorite game day refreshment including Frank’s RedHot Original Buffalo Wing recipe and the signature Buffalo Chicken Dip (see franksredhot.com for these and other great game day recipes). As an added feature, the scooter has a special external bottle holder for your favorite flavor of RedHot.

 

To enter, complete the online entry application on the Sweepstakes tab located on the Frank’s RedHot Facebook page: www.facebook.com/FranksRedHot. The Grand Prize Winner will be selected in a random drawing on or about February 3, 2011. In addition, one weekly winner will be selected at random on Mondays through and including January 31, 2011.

 

A “must-have” for celebrating in style – enter now to be the first (and perhaps the only) one on the block to own the Frank’s RedHot Scooter Cooler.

 

 

 

 

 

Disclosure:  I received coupons from the company in exchange for posting the contest information on my blog.    No other compensation was received. 

Posts May Contain Affiliate Links, Read my Disclosure Policy

Homemade Broth or Stock Pin It

Making homemade broth or homemade stock is fairly easy.

You can make broth or stock with meat scraps,  beef bones, chicken bones and skin, turkey bones and skin, as well as vegetable scraps. Just depends on if you’re wanting to make homemade beef broth, homemade beef stock, homemade chicken broth, homemade chicken stock , homemade turkey both, homemade turkey stock, or homemade vegetable stock. I’ve never made it but you can make homemade fish stock too.

To make stock, you need 3 ingredients:

• meat scraps, bones or skin if using chicken or turkey
• water
• and not necessary but it helps to flavor the stock: vegetable scraps

Of course you’ll need a stockpot to put all this in so you can boil it in.

If you don’t think you’ll have enough bones, skin, or vegetable scraps to make up a batch of stock or broth, you can keep a container or a gallon sized freezer ziploc type bag in the freezer to put the bones, skins, and vegetables scraps in until you have enough or have the time to make the homemade stock or homemade broth.

I keep a gallon size bag in my freezer to put vegetable scraps in such as celery leaves, ends of carrots and celery I’ve cut off, onion skins and onions ends.  I don’t put potato peels in my bag for stock nor things like tomato scraps or cucumber scraps.

How to make homemade broth or stock:

• Once you are ready to make the broth or stock, empty your container or bag of meat scraps, etc. and vegetable scraps into the stockpot together. 
• Add water. If you have a gallon size bag of scraps, you can fill a  large stockpot full of water.  I use a gallon size bag of scraps and water to fill my  20 quart stockpot. 
• You can add salt and pepper if you desire though it’s not necessary as you can season your broth when you are ready to use it. 
• Bring the mixture to a boil and allow to boil for 30 minutes.  Boiling longer will make your broth or stock cloudy looking.  Turn the heat down to med. and allow it to simmer for one hour.  
• Remove from heat and allow to cool down completely.  
• Then put into your fridge so that any fat will float to the top and solidify. This will take overnight.
• Once the broth or stock has the solidified fat on top, remove from fridge and skim the fat off.  You can save this to flavor any dry dog food or cat food in the wintertime to give your pet a tasty treat.

Of course, if you’re just making vegetable broth, you will not need to put it into your fridge to skim off any fat as there will not be any.

Preserving  your homemade broth or stock:

Freezing the homemade broth or stock:

• Once you have the fat skimmed off and the broth has cooled down completely, start ladling it into freezer containers.  Be sure to leave a little headspace for the broth or stock to expand when it freezes. Label your container with contents and date.

Canning the homemade broth or stock:

Another method of preserving your homemade broth or stock is to can it.

• You will need a pressure canning to process your broth or stock as it is not safe to water- bath can it due to being a low-acid food.
• If making meat broth or stock, you’ll want the mixture to warm back up room temperature at least.  You can use the hot vegetable broth straight from here. Pour hot broth into hot jars. Never pour anything cold into hot jars as they will crack and you want to make sure you are not putting cold jars into a hot canner and vice versa as they will break.
• Leave 1 inch head space from the top rim of the jar when you are filling your jars with the hot broth.
• Wipe the rims with a clean damp cloth
• Place hot clean seals onto the jars
• Tighten down your rings onto the jar seals.
• Place the jars into your pressure canner and read your canner’s directions on how much water it calls for.
• Processing time will vary for your altitude so be sure you check your canner’s instruction manual. Here are the basic processing times:

  pints - process for 20 minutes
  quarts - process for 25 minutes

• Basic poundage is 10 lbs of pressure to 15 pounds of pressure – again this is varied by your altitude. Be sure to consult your canner’s instruction manual.

Follow your pressure canner’s instruction manual above all things.  You will need to hold a constant pounds of pressure for the recommended minutes before your broth will be processed correctly.

NEVER EVER attempt to open a pressure canner until that pressure gauge or pressure valve has dropped back down to zero. Doing so can result in tragic results and physical injury.  

Do NOT leave a pressure canner unattended either. There have been some horror stories of people getting injured, the lid blowing off and knocking holes in the ceiling etc. as well. 

Be safe, read your instruction manual, and use caution when using a pressure canner.

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Welcome to all the New Couponers! Pin It

My blog has been receiving an increased amount of traffic from search engines each time the new TLC's "Extreme Couponing" show airs as well as people searching for info on how to set up a coupon binder, how to set up a home management binder, and more.  I want to take this moment to welcome my new blog readers as well as all the new people to my blog and of course the new coupon shoppers!

Couponing is a great way to further your budget but remember Saving Money Doesn’t Consist of Just Clipping Coupons.  Saving money on everything and just not groceries is a lifestyle change.  If you want to get out of debt, you’re going to have to buckle down and quit being a spend-thrift.  I encourage you to have a look around  my blog. Check out my frugal posts to gain some inspiration on what you can do in your life and household to cut your expenses.

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Winner of the World's Best Origami by Nick Robinson Pin It

It’s time to draw the winner for the Giveaway: World's Best Origami by Nick Robinson.

Using Random.org to obtain the random number for the winner’s comment, the winner is….  Comment # 7

Lori Thomas said... 7

Follow blog via Facebook Networked Blogs (Lori Thomas)
ctymice@gmail.com

January 9, 2011 4:31 AM

 

Congrats Lori!  I’ll be contacting you soon.

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A Reader’s Question: Use of Multiple Coupons Pin It

I got an email from a reader of my blog:

“Hello,
Just a quick question.... I as well seen that TLC coupon bit and I was just wondering how they were able to use sooo many coupons on one item when most have restrictions saying one like coupon per transaction. I could really use the help for my mom and dad he was just put on disability and they have 4 children and no money. If you could just take a minute I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks ;)Ashley”

She was referring to the TLC’s new show “Extreme Couponing” that I posted about here: My thoughts on the TLC Extreme Couponing show.

Ashley asks a very good question and makes a very good observation.

Many people misunderstand the wording on the coupon though that says “one coupon per purchase” with what a purchase is and what a transaction is. 

A purchase is one item.  Each item you buy is a purchase.   The entire group of items on one receipt… your order…   is a transaction.

So if you were to buy 10 toothbrushes in one order (one transaction), you can use 10 coupons providing there are not any restrictions on the coupons.

Some coupons do have restrictions on them, so be very careful and make sure you have read the “fine print” on the coupons as many of the new ones are coming out with wording on them that say “one per person”, “one per customer”,  “limit of 4 like coupons per shopping trip”, etc.      Be aware of the limitations on them so you don’t misuse the coupons.

I have not seen the entire show nor am I privy to exactly what coupons they used so I can not comment on the restrictions on those coupons but considering that the taping of the show was done a few months ago, I’m venturing a guess that the new P&G wording was not on the coupons yet for any proctor & gamble products they may have purchased (if any).

I hope that answered your question, Ashley.

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It’s a Winter Wonderland Outside! Pin It

It’s a winter wonderland here right now.  It started snowing late Sunday night (or rather after midnight Monday morning).   We woke up Monday morning to almost 7” of snow on the ground.

It has been snowing off and on since then… we’ve accumulated almost another 2”.

This is our herb garden… or rather where our herb garden is.  lol

A view down our driveway.

And a view of our back yard.  That fenced in area is our main garden. I took this out one of the window's as it’s cold cold cold outside.  It has been in the 20’s for the high here.

Anyone want to come have a snowball fight?   

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Free books for Kindle, Kindle for PC, ipad kindle app, etc. from Amazon Pin It

Amazon has a lot of free books for Kindle

There are classics and more free for the downloading to your Kindle, Kindle for PC, or for the free Kindle app for your iPad, iPhone, Droid, or Mac.

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Groupon deal until 1/18/11 Pin It

Groupon  is giving a $20 referral to anyone who signs up using your referral link.

'offer ends 1/18/11

If you aren't signed up with Groupon, I'd be thankful if you signed up using my link:  Groupon.

Thank you

Look for your unique code in your email if you are already signed up and then use that code on your blog, facebook, twitter, etc

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Saving Money Doesn’t Consist of Just Clipping Coupons Pin It

This post is a copy of the article I wrote for WeUseCoupons.com: Saving Money Doesn’t Consist of Just Clipping Coupons

Many people turn to clipping coupons to save money but saving money doesn't just consist of clipping coupons.
There are other things you can do as well that will net you some savings.
Some don't like the word "frugal" but I personally LOVE IT! WUC has a forum for Tightwad Tips as well.
Here are a few ideas to help you get started on a saving journey that can last you throughout your lifetime.
Food Saving Ideas:

1. Cook more from scratch or at least cook at home more. Keep a journal of how much you spend on eating out for a month or just even a week. That is a real eye opener as to where some if not a lot of your funds are going.
2. Instead of stopping off of the mornings on your commute to work to buy that expensive cup of coffee, buy a bag of your favorite coffee then invest in a coffee pot with a timer setting where you can set it the night before and be ready when you get up. Invest in a thermal travel cup that way you can take that coffee you just brewed to work with you. Thus saving you money and time!
3. Take leftovers to work with you for lunch if feasible or eat them the next night. Use a little leftover magic to create a new dish with meat and veggies, etc.
4. Strapped for time? Make some meals ahead and freeze them. This is referred to as Once A Month Cooking (that is a link to a forum here on WUC dedicated to that). Buy a crockpot and utlize it so you'll have a meal to come home too.
5. Live where you can garden? Doesn't have to be a full scale garden. You can raise vegetable in planters, raised beds, etc. Buy seeds and grow your own... watch those after season sales for deals on seed packets. The closer to the end of time it's good to put seedling out, you'll often find markdowns at Lowe's and such.
6. Barter with friends for surplus home grown food. Zucchini seems to be a big one on that.
7. Trade plants for plants with friends and neighbors too. Maybe they have too much mint growing and you have too much basil growing... swap out some plants with each other.
8. Shop local farm stands. I am hesitant to say local farmers markets as some farmers markets are not true farmers markets. Look for little road side stands for deals. If the vegetables have wax on them or they are selling fruits as well as vegetables not grown in your area or are not in season at the time... it's probably safe to say they didn't grow them themselves. Don't be afraid to ask questions about how they grew them, if they have a small farm nearby, etc.
9. Buy in season. Buying fruit and vegetables out of season will cost your more than buying a tomato in the summer vs. buying a tomato in your area in the winter.
10. Buy in bulk. You'll pay less over all and make less trips to the store. Learn to store your bulk spices, etc. so that bugs don't get in them. I highly recommend food grade diatomaceous earth for this. I use it in my buckets of wheat berries, rolled oats, beans, rice, etc.

Household Ideas:

1. Looking for a new appliance? Don't be afraid to check out the scratch and dents. Wait for income tax returns and purchase then if possible as you'll find deals on appliances around Feb., March, and April. Take advantage of rebates on the items too. If you are daring, purchase refurbished ones. We've done that in the past with great success until we literally wore the item out.
2. Learn to some repairs yourself whether it's household repairs, remodeling projects or redecorating projects of painting things yourself, etc. or even some appliance repairs yourself.
3. Lower the thermostat and put on a sweater to cut back on your heating bill or electric bill.
4. Do your own lawn-care. You'll not only save money but you'll get some exercise too.
5. Learn to sew. Make your own curtains, pillow cases, cloth napkins, etc. OR shop a thrift store or yard sale. You'd be surprised at New in package items you can find for not much money.
6. Watch thrift stores for small appliances as they often will test them to make sure they work and note them as such.
7. Shop Thrift Stores during any discount days they may offer. Local Goodwill stores have a 50% the entire store stock the first Saturday of every month.
8. Don't hire someone to clean your carpets for you. Rent a rug doctor and do it yourself unless you aren't physically able to OR find someone to do it for you and barter with them. I love to barter my stockpile for services, etc. Or offer something I can do in exchange.
9. Shop salvage stores for floor remnants, building supplies, etc. Great bargains are to be found here.
10. Shop thrift stores and yard sales for furniture. Watch for quality items that are a good investment. You can get solid built furniture at antique stores that will hold up longer and last longer than the store bought stuff these days.

Auto Saving Ideas

1. Do car repairs yourself if possible. If not feasible, check out the local vo-tech school (some high schools have auto shops) as you can get quality repairs done there for a fraction of the cost.
2. Keep the maintenance up on your car whether you do it yourself or use local companies that offer discounts on oil changes, etc. Keeping your car in working order will keep the car working for you.
3. Don't disregard those check engine lights. Places like AutoZone, Advance Auto, etc. will use a diagnostic meter on your engine at no cost to check what may be the problem.
4. Do your own car care. Clean the car yourself instead of hiring detailers. Look for the inexpensive car washes that offer free vacs now with a wash for as low as $3. Keep that road salt off your cars as much as possible. It will make rust and eat away at your car.
5. Keep your tires to the correct pressure as this will help with mileage.
6. Fill up your vehicle when you can find gas a the lowest price. If you have a Kroger, utilize their fuel rewards to earn up to $1 off per gallon. They are offering double points until January 31, 2011 with participating Shell station receipts you bring in and present with your shopping orders (before you hand over your coupons).
7. Carpool when possible to save on gas. Switch off with a co-worker weekly.
8. Looking for a different vehicle. Consider craigslist or ask around if anyone knows of a car for sale. You'll save some money but like anything used, check it out thoroughly before buying it. If you know of a mechanic you can take it to have it inspected, do so.

Personal care items

1. Need a hair cut? Consider learning how to cut and style your and/or your family's hair. Invest in a good pair of scissors and/or clippers.
2. Afraid to cut your own hair or your family's hair? Look up the cosmetology schools for discounted services.
3. Some high school have a cosmetology department and offer great discounts on not on hair care services but also manicures too.
4. Adventurous? Why not try making some of your own personal care items. Things such as lip balms, feminine products, etc.

Family Fun Ideas:

1. Take advantage of free or discounted museum days. Different museums across the U.S. participate in The Smithsonian Free Musuem Day once a year in the fall. You can go either free or at a discount rate that day. Local museums sometimes offer a free day once a month. Call ahead and ask about those or other discount days. If you can go with another family or two, ask about group rates.
2. Buy family package to get a discount that entitles you to admission to the zoo, museum, aquarium etc. for a year. Many times buy buying the family package, you can get free or discounted admission to other zoos, museums, etc. as well. We bought a family package to a local zoo that entitles us to free as well as discounted admission to other zoos across the U.S.
3. Watch for coupons online that you can use at yor destination of choice whether it's bowling, etc.
4. Don't forget to utilize your state parks. Many do not charge a fee. Enjoy the beauty of nature. Take a nice nature walk, go for a picnic, etc.
5. Use those local parks with the slides and sings. Children enjoy these simple things just as much as the museums with all the children's discovery gadgets.
6. Plan a play date with a friend.
7. Have movie night or game night at your house and invite friends or family over for a fun night.
8. When was the last time you went to the library? You can check out books as well as books for FREE!
9. Save money on movies by either using the library for free rentals, using coupon codes for kiosks such as Redbox or Blockbuster Express. You can still save on a movie rental there for $1 a night even without the codes so that's not bad. Check into getting the basic subscription to www.Netflix.com for $10 a month (I think) gives you one DVD out at a time and unlimited online viewing.
10. Lay out on a blanket at night in the warmer seasons of course and marvel at the stars.
11. Lay out on the blanket in the day and watch the clouds go by and try to see animals in them.
12. Love to read? The library isn't the only place for books. Swap books with friends, use paperbackswap.com, shop used bookstores in your area (I personally love this one and use it for dvds, used homeschool books, and more.).
13. Go for a walk along a lake, river, or at the beach and look for shells, interesting rocks and more.
14. Go on a nature walk and gather flowers to make your own beautiful boquets for your kitchen or dining room table. Bring the beauty of the outdoors in.

other ideas:

1. Make gifts for others instead of buying them. Whether it's making an apron for them, sewing a set of napkins to match their kitchen, making cute fire-starters for them, or other edible gifts in a jar, a candle in a coffee cup, or handmade candles or soaps. They'll appreciate the gift knowing that you made it especially for them. (ok, some don't but they have the "I wants" too much anyway. lol).
2. Watch after holiday sales and pick up some great deals on the sale items to use as gifts for other occasions, as well as wrapping for those occasions.

I hope this list gave you some ideas on thinking beyond just clipping coupons to save money.
Good luck with your goals of putting more cash back into your wallet this year and for many years to come!!

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Freebies and More during CurrClick Live’s Meet & Greet Open House January 10th-14th Pin It

CurrClick is hosting a Meet & Greet Open House about their CurrClick Live Spring Classes. You can get freebies as well as discounts during this event.

 

 

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Sunday Reflections Pin It

Winter time brings about a gloomy time for many. Plants are dormant and the landscape is brown and gray that tends to make everything a drab, dreary scene.  The skies give way to snow clouds and brisk winter winds that feel as if they can cut you to the bone.

Another day goes by, sometime swifter than the day before. Another month has passed us by and another year snuck up on us before we knew it.

I am so thankful that no matter what season of life I am in  is in whether is is winter, spring, summer or fall; or a change in life of going from a parent to a grandparent, I have an opportunity to leave a legacy to my children, grandchildren, and future generations. A legacy of my Savior’s love for me. I want my children to be able to say, “my Momma was a godly woman” and my grandchildren to say “My Mamaw was a godly woman”.  I want to live what I believe and not give them any doubt of when I pass on of where I am spending my eternity.

“Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.  James 4:14

What will your life say of you?

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Book Review & Giveaway: World's Best Origami by Nick Robinson Pin It

This giveaway is now closed.

 

World's Best Origami Author: Nick Robinson Publisher: Alpha (November 2010) ISBN-10: 1615640533 ISBN-13: 978-1615640539

When I received this book to review, I had a 12 year old son that spied it and got very excited. He loves to make paper airplanes and other paper toys so this book was really intriguing to him with over 100 designs consisting of animals, flowers, birds, and more. Orgami is a great way to use up scrap paper and colorful junk mail too. If you homeschool, you can utilize this book for craft time with your oldest students. I can see homeschoolers who use the workbox method of slipping this into one of the workboxes with some paper and letting the student make a design or too.

The book really is an origami teaching tool as it literally shows the reader every step and  every fold you need to make the origami creations.

I handed him the book and some scrap paper to have some fun with. He spent a couple of hours just folding, enjoying, and yes getting a little frustrated too. Here he is with water lily he made using the directions in this book.

It took two attempts to make it but he got it and was very pleased that he could make it.  That project encouraged him to try to make other designs including the stemmed tulip below.

 

Then of course the 10 year old wanted in on the action too. So I had to make him some squares of paper to fold. He wanted to make a water lily as well. He was successful in making the water lily on his first attempt much to the chagrin of his older brother. He didn’t stop at one water lily… he made three and then proceeded to cut circles out of other scrap paper to make the pads for them. lol  Funny and smart!

Of course I couldn’t be out done by my two young men. So I showed them I could make the long stemmed rose from the book. I made a water lily too but it took me a couple of attempts to get it right.

All in all, we had a fun afternoon with the origami book.   I know the book will get a lot of use as I’ll pop it into the boys  workboxes for school from time to time. As the other children get older, I’ll put it in their workboxes too.

 

About the Book:

Professional origami artist, Nick Robinson, guides readers through the process of folding paper. Projects are rated from beginner to advanced and include everything from the traditional swan and poppy box to truly amazing pieces such as a geodetic tower and a jet plane! Each diagram is clearly displayed with easy-to-understand folding instructions for a perfect outcome every time.

The book teaches readers how to:

- Choose the best paper for the project

- Make basic folds and perfect creases

- Follow clear and simple folding instructions for a successful project outcome

- Gain an understanding  of origami symbols

About the Author

Nick Robinson (London, England, UK) is a professional origami artist and author who has been folding paper for 30 years. A member of the British Origami Society who edits its magazine and maintains its website, Nick has written over 30 books on origami, as well as numerous articles, and done several commercial and charitable origami commissions involving origami and paper art over the last 20 years. Nick has created several hundred original designs and teaches origami in schools, arts centers, and many other venues.

About the Publisher

Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc., publishes high- quality lifestyle and reference books in 30 different categories. The Complete Idiot's Guides®, Alpha Teach Yourself in 24 Hours, At Your Fingertips-- as well as other series and stand-alone titles -- provide helpful how-to information and general knowledge in an easily accessible manner.

Now for the  GIVEAWAY!

Courtesy of the publisher, I am giving a copy of World's Best Origami to one of my readers.

NOTE: All entries must be in the form of a comment on THIS post. To leave a comment, scroll to the bottom of this post and click the “Add Comment” link.

Mandatory Entry:

• Comment on this post and tell me if you have ever done origami or why you’d like to win this book.  

• Remember….Your comment must contain a way that I can contact you if you are the winner otherwise another winner will be chosen.

Additional Optional Entries:

• Follow this blog via Facebook Networked Blogs
• Follow Laura Williams' Musings on Twitter

• Subscribe via email to Laura Williams' Musings

(If you already do the three optional entries, just leave an extra comment stating which of those you do (up to 3 extra comments).

All in all, you have 4 chances to win a copy of this book.

Giveaway Information:

• The give away will be open until midnight EST Friday January 14, 2011 Winner will be announced by Sunday January16, 2011.
• Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry as stated above.
• Winner will be chosen at random!
• Please leave a way for me to contact you in your entry otherwise another winner will be chosen.
• Winners have 72 hours to respond to the email sent to them. Failure to do so will result in an alternate winner being drawn at random.

• NOTE: This giveaway is offered to US Residents only. The winner’s copy of this book will be shipped directly from the publisher.

Good Luck!

 

 

 

Disclosure:  I received this book free from the publisher  for the purpose of reviewing same.  No other compensation was received for this review. The opinions expressed in this review are my personal and honest opinion.  Your experience with product may vary.

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Freebie Today only! 1/7/11 - 101 Ways to Save Money "study guide" Pin It

go here to download your copy.  Freebie Download for Today : pennyraine.com bookstore

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Free Blockbuster Express Video Rental (like RedBox -- Bi-Lo has a Blockbuster Express) expires Jan. 10, 2011 Pin It

Rent a free movie with coupon code SHTZFR1 at any Blockbuster Express

expires Jan. 10,  2011.

The freebie is only for one night. Keep it longer than  that and you'll owe $1 per night per movie, plus taxes.

You must have a  credit or debit card to use Blockbuster Express kiosks (just like Redbox), no contract  or account with Blockbuster is needed though to get the freebie.

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Book Review: The Influenza Bomb by Paul McCusker & Walt Larimore, MD Pin It

(TSI: Time Scene Investigators) The Influenza Bomb Authors: Paul McCusker and Walt Larimore, MD Publisher: Howard Books; Original edition (June 1, 2010) ISBN-10: 1416569758 ISBN-13: 978-1416569756

I was sent this book a few months ago and ever since then, I have made several attempts to read it. I either lost interest and/or just couldn’t get into the story. I am the type of reader that has to immerse myself into a book. I put myself almost into the pages and can imagine myself there. I connect with the characters, etc.   Unfortunately there are books that come along that I just can’t do that with and this is one of them.  I think the book dealt with too much details and background stuff to keep me interested and thus keeping me from connecting with the characters.

 

About the Book:

Masses of people are dying from a mysterious flu. While the TSI team searches for a cure, a notorious eco-terrorist group,Return to Earth, uses an influenza bomb to poison the water. It’s a race against time—with the outcome impacting the entire world.

By the time the team discovers that the terrorists are using the water supply to infect people, the sickness is spreading worldwide and no one has a cure. When Return to Earth makes off with a mysterious device called the influenza bomb with the intent to destroy all of mankind, Dr. Hutchinson must stop the contamination from being spread before it’s too late.

 

About the Authors:

Paul McCusker (Creative Director, Focus on the Family) and Walt Larimore, M.D. (nationally renowned physician) display their considerable story-telling talents with THE INFLUENZA BOMB, in stores June 1 from Howard Books. Influenza killed 20-100 million worldwide in 1918. We never discovered why or how to stop the virus. Now, it's back and the Time Scene Investigators (an international team that probes past medical disasters to prevent future outbreaks) must solve the riddle that has gone unanswered for nearly 100 years - before millions more die.

 

Disclosure:  I received this book free from the publisher via Glass Road PR for the purpose of reviewing same.  No other compensation was received for this review. The opinions expressed in this review are my personal and honest opinion.  Your experience with product may vary.

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"Shhhhhh CurrClick has a secret..." Winter Whisper Freebies -- ends January 19th Pin It

Check out the Winter Whisper Freebies!

Right now at CurrClick, in this non-public location of our website, our Winter Whisper Sale and Giveaway is going on. 10 brand new freebies are being given away, 10 of our best selling publishers have discounted all their resources by 50% AND NOBODY knows about it but you. It's NOT on our homepage, it's NOT on our Facebook page, it's not anywhere but here.

It's hard to keep a secret though, right? And we're not going to make you. In fact, feel free to run off at the mouth as much as you would like. You can tell your Facebook and Twitter followers, your co-op, your neighbor, your newsgroups, even your strange Great Uncle. The only thing we ask you NOT to do is post the details on our Facebook page.

And what are the details?

1. The secret phrase is: "Shhhhhh CurrClick has a secret..." It will be fun to post this phrase in as many places possible. We want people to wonder what is going on!
2. The URL for the sale is: http//:www.currclick.com/cclick_wintersale.php. Feel free to give the secret URL and details to whomever you like. Encourage them to start whispering too. You can give them the secret phrase, the URL and all the details so they can help pass along the word to all their co-ops, friends, family and all their weird Great Uncles too.
3. CurrClick's Winter Whisper Sale ends January 19th.

People say that word of mouth is powerful in the homeschool community. Let's find out!

Shhhh... well, not really!

The CurrClick Staff

PS. You can click here to go back to our main Winter Whisper Sale page.

 

 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

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A Comment from a Reader: My Stockpile Pin It

Monica is a new reader of my blog and sent me an email asking:

“Hi Laura,

I’ve recently just started coming to your blog, but I first saw your stockpile on youtube. My question is, how often do you shop to acquire a stockpile like that??? I know that once You start to really accumulate, you can decided and no that you will not pay over a set price for An item, but I just wondered do you buy every day, or not? I’ve built up a nice (for a newbie) HBA stockpile for our family. I have 3 boys and my hubby and me, so I don’t have a problem usually  Stockpiling that stuff, the good snack stuff seems to be hard to stockpile because the boys try to Get into everything.  Also, could you tell me how you get panty liners, pads and razors for so little?  

I know for example that CVS will do a deal here where they will put a razor on sale for like $9.00 and then Give you back $5.00 in ECB’s and then P&G will have a coupon for $4.00 and that is how you get a few free, But it looks like from your pile that you get a lot of things free. I don’t have access to the stores that You do in the southern region, as I am in PA, but sometimes we can get some good deals here.  

I just wanted to let you know that your stockpile inspires me to do the best that I can for my family. I look at The video often to remember what I want to someday have.

Monica Crowell”

 

Monica, I don’t shop every day.  It is just not feasible or frugal for me to do so because I live over 15 miles outside of the nearest town and thus away from the nearest grocery stores, etc.  I do my main shopping once a week (usually on Friday afternoons)   and then just pop in after church on Sunday or Wednesday night if there is something I forgot or want to pick up a few more of.  There have been weeks and even months that I did not set foot into a Rite Aid, etc.  I mainly shop at Rite Aid and Bi-Lo (my two nearest stores) but will occasionally drive to Kroger in a couple of towns over when they are having great mega deal sales and occasionally  shop at a nearby Walgreens there. I sometimes will go to  Publix and shop at a nearby CVS but usually only go to these two stores when I am going to be in the area and have a few more stops or errands I can do while there. My husband will sometimes take a list and coupons with him for a store in the city he is working in at the time. He works construction and travels to different areas sometimes.

The Youtube video you are referring too was made in 2009.  I have always kept a running stockpile of items since I started couponing more and more in 1998. It has helped us in some very lean times. The video shows  about a year’s worth of shopping. I just  restock things when they are on sale at the “set price I’m willing to pay for them”. Each person is different when they come to having that set price.   For an example…. I am at the point that deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and a few other things have to be free after coupons before I will bring them home.  We are a family of 8 now that our oldest daughter  got married a couple of years ago and of course, moved out. I use my stockpile not only for my family but also share with our oldest daughter and her family now as well as other family members, friends, etc.

As far as getting the panty liners, pads and razors for little money out of pocket, it just simply watching the sales and matching up coupons to them.  Rite Aid had Gillette Fusion Razors on sale last week that after coupon, sale price, etc. you would only pay .97 for it (or was it .98).   Everyone in this area apparently got in on that deal except for me… there were none left by the time I got to the store. No worries though, I just got a raincheck. I get rainchecks when a sale item is out of stock. 

I know the type sale you are referring too at CVS with the ECB’s. I don’t shop CVS very often now that we live about 45 minutes from the closest one.  CVS has a limit on how many ECB deals you can do per the items too  and that’s all I get when I do shop there as I only have one CVS card.  I know some couponers have more than one CVS card, but I do not. As a matter of fact,  I only have one store card for all my stores – Rite Aid, Bi-Lo, Kroger, CVS, etc.   I do believe that most of the stores have restrictions in place  that the cards are limited to one per household (or they did to my knowledge).  I do not advocate having more than one store card nor see the necessity for it. I get the deals with just my one card.   I have personally met other couponers in the stores who bragged about having more than one card and about having a CVS card in their dog’s name. Needless to say that left a sour taste in my mouth. That to me is fraud.  Couponers like that hurt the ones of us who are using the coupons and cards legitimately.

Rite Aid has Always pantiliners on sale this week for .99.  If you were able to get the P&G booklet of coupons, there are three $1 off any Always product coupon in that booklet… thus you could use those and obtain 3 packages of pantiliners free. I noticed they had some Always pads on 50% off clearance too and there was a $1/1 Always pad coupons  in the 12/31 P&G Sunday Coupon Insert.  Though not free, combined the clearance sale and the coupon would make for some inexpensive pads.   Another option is to use your coupons on those items at stores such as Dollar General and Family Dollar where they sale these type of  items fairly inexpensive on a daily basis.  These stores are not to be confused with Dollar Tree (that store does not accept coupons).  

I hope that answers your questions and helps you.   Thank you for stopping by and thanks for reading my blog.

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