I hope that you and your family have a wonderful Halloween!!
We are going to going trick or treating with our little one and enjoying a little time out in the new neighborhood. This is our little fireman with his friend last year :)
Great place to share couponing stories, cooking and baking recipes, and lots of fun for families without spending a lot of money.
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Friday, October 30, 2015
When Love Returns Book Review
I was excited to get the opportunity to read the third book in the series that I have been enjoying. It took me a little while to get When Love Returns: A Novel (The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy)
by Kim Vogel Sawyer but I was happy when I did!! I had to read the first few chapters to remember all the great background of these characters but once I was into the book, it was hard to put down!!
It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family. Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago? Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends--and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?
The title of the book was about the love returning which I think mainly applies to Suzanne and Paul finding their old love again. But it also applies to the love of family with all of the adopted children finding out who their parents are and showing life and love can continue with new families as well. It was heart warming to see the adoption stories unfolding. I enjoyed the revealing of Alexa's birth mother and family even though it was hard on her to search for her. It ended up being something that helped bring closure to the questions or her birth and her birth mother. She ends up feeling much better about her life with a weight lifted and finds out she has two half siblings to add to her family. Anna Grace finds out her parents are and grows to understand that she was loved by both her birth parents and her adoptive parents. All the characters in the book grow with this new found love. I hope that you check out this book and all the other great books in this wonderful series!!!
**Please Note: I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion and review. All opinions here are my own.
by Kim Vogel Sawyer but I was happy when I did!! I had to read the first few chapters to remember all the great background of these characters but once I was into the book, it was hard to put down!!
It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family. Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago? Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends--and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?
The title of the book was about the love returning which I think mainly applies to Suzanne and Paul finding their old love again. But it also applies to the love of family with all of the adopted children finding out who their parents are and showing life and love can continue with new families as well. It was heart warming to see the adoption stories unfolding. I enjoyed the revealing of Alexa's birth mother and family even though it was hard on her to search for her. It ended up being something that helped bring closure to the questions or her birth and her birth mother. She ends up feeling much better about her life with a weight lifted and finds out she has two half siblings to add to her family. Anna Grace finds out her parents are and grows to understand that she was loved by both her birth parents and her adoptive parents. All the characters in the book grow with this new found love. I hope that you check out this book and all the other great books in this wonderful series!!!
**Please Note: I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion and review. All opinions here are my own.
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Thrifty Thursday Things that I Do to Save Money and Stretch those Groceries
I think that I have been frugal for too long because I start to forget all of the things that I do on a daily and weekly basis for myself to save a little bit of money. I have made so many of them habits that I don't even know that they are saving money anymore. I read a few blogs recently that reminded me that I need to focus on those things so that I continue to be motivated to do them. Hopefully this will motivate you to continue or start some new habits to save money.
This weekend it was monkey bread from the container of Grands rolls that I had in my drawer. I used the other one to make doughnuts for an earlier weekend treat. It was one package of biscuits and it is the perfect amount for the three of us to enjoy without over eating!
1. Making Homemade Bread:
I make a loaf of American Sandwich Bread ever week to make my husband sandwiches for lunch. This last week we also used it for toast, peanut butter sandwich for my son and grilled cheese.
2. Making a Breakfast Treat for the Week:
This last week, I made banana bread so that we would have something nice and homemade to have for breakfast or for snacks. I bought 6 bananas the other day specifically to make bread and froze the other three. It tends to go fairly quickly but I have been stuck in a bread rut that we sadly haven't finished the end of the last two loaves of applesauce and pumpkin bread so I was determined to finish this loaf.
3. Make a Special Breakfast Treat for the Weekend:
I normally only do this one day but sometimes if the schedule works out, my family gets to warm treats out of the oven. Last weekend it was scones with the pumpkin spice Greek Yogurt that I got at Harris Teeter super doubles deal.
This weekend it was monkey bread from the container of Grands rolls that I had in my drawer. I used the other one to make doughnuts for an earlier weekend treat. It was one package of biscuits and it is the perfect amount for the three of us to enjoy without over eating!
4. Make Seasoned Oyster Crackers:
My husband likes to have the same thing in his lunch everyday. He takes a turkey or turkey with ham sandwich and a little container of oyster crackers or other snacks. These little crackers are for sale at Aldi for $0.79. I get two packages and pour them into a container to shake around with different seasonings that I have on hand. I had a bunch of popcorn seasonings but I have used taco seasonings and garlic to make different flavors all the time.
5. Picked up the local free newspaper at the library:
They have been running out of the paper recently because there are so many people who either read the paper or coupon that are getting them that I have had to remember to get them on Saturday. They used to come in early on Friday and I would pick them up on Friday on my way home or my husband would but now they don't have them on Fridays. Super excited because I got 20 copies and pulled two coupon inserts out of each. These inserts don't have as many coupons at the Washington Post does but they are totally free. They are available at the local libraries in the county and some other stores around the area but since they are free they are gone quickly.6. Make Chocolate Chip Cookies:
We like to have a special treat to have for dessert and snacks through the week so I decided to make a family favorite of chocolate chip cookies even though I was thinking about peanut butter cookies but I am not sure that my son will love them as much. I guess I will try those next week.
7. Entered Codes in My Coke Rewards:
I was so excited when I read on Nathalie's blog that I could enter all of the 20 oz caps and get double points. The caps are normally only worth three points and I got 6 points for each one!! I had around 24 caps. I was so excited that it let me enter all the caps that I had without reaching the limit. There is a weekly limit normally and I never know what it is so it is always a surprise when I reach it. She also mentioned that there would be double points for cases of soda so I planned on putting those in and getting lots more points to order coupons off of cases of Coke. Used with a good sale, they should be nearly free and I am sure my husband would be excited to have soda in the house again.
8. Eating at Home:
I made all of our meals at home this week with special treats of frozen pizzas that I got cheap for our weekend meals along with leftovers. We do love to get take out but I try to limit the number of times that we get it a month so that we are still enjoying it and making it a special treat as well as saving money. We are having pizza grilled cheese, pasta, grilled chicken and rice, chicken nuggets and making homemade french fries. There are lots of meals to make at home even when you don't have a lot of time to make it!! Plan ahead and save lots of money.
9. Making Popcorn:
My son needs to have a snack for school every day because he has the last lunch period at 1:10 so we go with a high fiber and very filling. I make two pots full and it lasts part of the week if I share too. It is super yummy so I often do!! I use a big pot on the stove with oil and butter flavored salt. It tastes a lot like the popcorn from the movies so it is a great treat and super frugal because a bag for under $2 lasts for weeks. It is a great bonus that it is healthier and cheaper.
10. Stopped at the Library to Pick Up Books:
We love reading!! I got a bunch of books for myself and returned a bunch more. My son is reading the Magic Tree House and we are getting the CD and books through the library. In addition, he decided that he wanted to read the books about Scaredy Squirrel. We love getting free books and enjoying new learning. We also renewed or returned all of the books that were due during the next week so that we didn't have any late fees.What are your favorite money saving activities?
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Home to Seaview Key Book Review
I was excited to get to the second book in this series and find out what was going to happen next. Home to Seaview Key (A Seaview Key Novel) by Sherryl Woods was the second in the Seaview series. I was a little sad that this was the last in the series because I think that I got used to having at least three books to get to know the characters but the last few series that I have read have just been two. I guess I can hold out hope that the author revisits some of these great towns and adds another book to the series.
Falling for a handsome stranger on the very morning they meet is hardly what recently divorced Abby Miller planned for her return to Seaview Key. Hoping to mend an old friendship and to give back to the community she loves, Abby's definitely not looking for love. For ex-soldier Seth Landry, Seaview Key seems like the perfect place to heal a broken heart…eventually. And when he rescues a beautiful woman on the beach, his nightmares about the past are eclipsed by daydreams about the future. Neither Abby nor Seth is looking for forever, but powerful love has its own timetable. And taking a chance on the future will test their courage in ways neither of them could possibly have anticipated.
I was expecting this book to be about Hannah and Luke as the first book was but this book followed different characters who are both new to us. Seth moved to Seaview because he was stationed with Luke oversees and they grew to be like brothers. He came for a visit and decided to stay and be the towns medic. Abby grew up on the small island community and had always wanted to escape. When she was old enough she did exactly that and left but learned that she didn't like the person that she was turned into through her marriage. Abby came back to Seaview to make herself back into the happy person she was in her youth. I enjoyed watching both of these characters heal and grow through the friendships on this island. I hope that you check out this book and the other in the series at your local library or bookstore soon. I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did!
Falling for a handsome stranger on the very morning they meet is hardly what recently divorced Abby Miller planned for her return to Seaview Key. Hoping to mend an old friendship and to give back to the community she loves, Abby's definitely not looking for love. For ex-soldier Seth Landry, Seaview Key seems like the perfect place to heal a broken heart…eventually. And when he rescues a beautiful woman on the beach, his nightmares about the past are eclipsed by daydreams about the future. Neither Abby nor Seth is looking for forever, but powerful love has its own timetable. And taking a chance on the future will test their courage in ways neither of them could possibly have anticipated.
I was expecting this book to be about Hannah and Luke as the first book was but this book followed different characters who are both new to us. Seth moved to Seaview because he was stationed with Luke oversees and they grew to be like brothers. He came for a visit and decided to stay and be the towns medic. Abby grew up on the small island community and had always wanted to escape. When she was old enough she did exactly that and left but learned that she didn't like the person that she was turned into through her marriage. Abby came back to Seaview to make herself back into the happy person she was in her youth. I enjoyed watching both of these characters heal and grow through the friendships on this island. I hope that you check out this book and the other in the series at your local library or bookstore soon. I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did!
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Seaview Inn Book Review
Seaview Inn (A Seaview Key Novel) by Sherryl Woods was one of the books that I picked up at the book sales with my free book coupons from all my summer reading. I don't know if I mentioned that I also got registered for some drawing at one of the libraries and I won a cute little library bag (which is currently resting letting the horrible plastic smell get lessened). I put this book on my reading list and got the second book in the two book series at the library so that I could start the first. This was another great beach story which is always good when the weather starts getting a little cold which it is here in Virginia.
Hannah Matthews is undeniably tough—a single mom, a top-tier PR exec, a
breast cancer survivor. She prides herself on being go-to Hannah, who
can handle any crisis. But with her grandmother balking at going into a
retirement home, her daughter unexpectedly pregnant and an old flame
suddenly underfoot, Hannah is facing a few crises of her own. And being
back home on Seaview Key is definitely adding to the stress.
Luke Stevens understands crisis. While serving in Iraq, his wife dumped him for his best friend—with whom Luke shares his medical practice. Seaview Key seems like the perfect place to hide out for a while. The last thing he expects is to fall in love…with his old hometown and with Hannah. Sometimes, though, the unexpected is just what it takes to heal the heart.
It took me a little longer then normal to get through this book because there were too many other things going on and I made sure to go to bed early this week and not stay up too late so I wouldn't be exhausted with everything that I have going on this week. The great thing was that made the book last longer which was great. It was a super emotional book with Hannah dealing with recent recovery from breast cancer and the death of her mother from cancer. Luke shows up at the inn with his own baggage from war injury, recently divorced and leaving his medical practice. Both of these old friends go back to where they lived their childhood to rebuild their life and move forward. Watch as both of them grow and find the new normal in their lives and think about what makes them happy. I enjoyed every part of the book and was super glad that there was another book to find out what would happen next. I hope that you check out this book and this series soon at your local library or bookstore. I know that you will enjoy it as much as I have!!!
Luke Stevens understands crisis. While serving in Iraq, his wife dumped him for his best friend—with whom Luke shares his medical practice. Seaview Key seems like the perfect place to hide out for a while. The last thing he expects is to fall in love…with his old hometown and with Hannah. Sometimes, though, the unexpected is just what it takes to heal the heart.
It took me a little longer then normal to get through this book because there were too many other things going on and I made sure to go to bed early this week and not stay up too late so I wouldn't be exhausted with everything that I have going on this week. The great thing was that made the book last longer which was great. It was a super emotional book with Hannah dealing with recent recovery from breast cancer and the death of her mother from cancer. Luke shows up at the inn with his own baggage from war injury, recently divorced and leaving his medical practice. Both of these old friends go back to where they lived their childhood to rebuild their life and move forward. Watch as both of them grow and find the new normal in their lives and think about what makes them happy. I enjoyed every part of the book and was super glad that there was another book to find out what would happen next. I hope that you check out this book and this series soon at your local library or bookstore. I know that you will enjoy it as much as I have!!!
Monday, October 26, 2015
Menu Plan Monday 10/26
Monday- Pizza Grilled Cheese and soup
Tuesday- Pasta
Wednesday- Worchestershire Chicken and white rice
Thursday- Chicken Nugget Wraps and homemade fries
Friday- Leftovers
Saturday- Early Dinner before Trick or Treating!!
Sunday- Breakfast for Dinner
I can't believe that we made it to the end of the month and the start of the new month. I guess that it went well for the first month getting back to planning one month ahead of time but I need to try to get the freezer stocked so that I am ready to plan for next month. I am sure that I can start the plan and fill in the blanks for the coming month but I am glad to have the first month back on track.
I had a few things on the menu . Hope you have a yummy week planned!!
Friday, October 23, 2015
Angel Mine Book Review
I was super excited to start on the second and final book in this series of books. Angel Mine (Whispering Wind Novel) by Sherryl Woods started off with a quick start. I was hooked from the start because there was a new character who was struggling with her life and trying to figure out how she could be a single mother with a career in New York City.
Heather Reed thought she was making the right choice when she decided to raise her daughter, Angel, on her own. But three years later, Heather realizes she needs help. Her career as an actress is faltering, and Angel's more than she can handle alone. It's time to track down Angel's father…only problem is, he doesn't know Angel exists.
Heather's search leads her to Whispering Wind, Wyoming. If Todd Winston is dismayed to see his old girlfriend show up in town, he's shocked when he looks into the angelic eyes of the little girl who is clearly his daughter. Todd flatly refuses to open his life to Angel. Heather flatly refuses to leave town until she finds out why. Amazingly, they discover that through compromise and understanding lies the road straight to family.
I really enjoyed this book and this series even though I think that the description of this book was little off from what I thought the book was about (but I rarely read the descriptions ahead so it didn't matter as much to me). The characters are really interesting and keep you wondering what you are going to find out next. Heather was trying to make it as a single mother of Angel and struggling to do the best for her daughter while trying to bring in a living and work as an actress. It turns out to be too much so she decides to find Angel's dad who didn't even know that he had a child. Todd was shocked to find out and ready to pay any amount of money to help but unwilling to have any contact with his daughter. Heather tries to figure out she can do to help Todd while her feelings for him are growing. You have to pick it up to find out what happens but I know that you won't be disappointed. I hope that you check out this book and the other book in this series at your local library or bookstore and enjoy it as much as I did.
Heather Reed thought she was making the right choice when she decided to raise her daughter, Angel, on her own. But three years later, Heather realizes she needs help. Her career as an actress is faltering, and Angel's more than she can handle alone. It's time to track down Angel's father…only problem is, he doesn't know Angel exists.
Heather's search leads her to Whispering Wind, Wyoming. If Todd Winston is dismayed to see his old girlfriend show up in town, he's shocked when he looks into the angelic eyes of the little girl who is clearly his daughter. Todd flatly refuses to open his life to Angel. Heather flatly refuses to leave town until she finds out why. Amazingly, they discover that through compromise and understanding lies the road straight to family.
I really enjoyed this book and this series even though I think that the description of this book was little off from what I thought the book was about (but I rarely read the descriptions ahead so it didn't matter as much to me). The characters are really interesting and keep you wondering what you are going to find out next. Heather was trying to make it as a single mother of Angel and struggling to do the best for her daughter while trying to bring in a living and work as an actress. It turns out to be too much so she decides to find Angel's dad who didn't even know that he had a child. Todd was shocked to find out and ready to pay any amount of money to help but unwilling to have any contact with his daughter. Heather tries to figure out she can do to help Todd while her feelings for him are growing. You have to pick it up to find out what happens but I know that you won't be disappointed. I hope that you check out this book and the other book in this series at your local library or bookstore and enjoy it as much as I did.
Thursday, October 22, 2015
After Tex Book Review
I was excited to try a new series by Sherryl Woods. The first book in the series was After Tex (Whispering Wind) by Sherryl Woods. The whole series was at the library when I stopped to grab some new books to read so I got to start right away. I finished reading my last series by her and was excited to check out this new Whispering Winds town. When I started, I thought that it was going to be set in Texas based on the title but Tex was a character and not a reference to the state....still having to remind myself that this western town is not in Texas but in Wyoming.
Megan O'Rourke's beloved grandfather had always been determined to lure her out of New York and back to their ranch in Whispering Wind, Wyoming. Now his will makes it impossible for her to refuse. She's named guardian of Tex's daughter—a daughter Megan never knew about!
Jake Landers has also come home to Whispering Wind. After leaving years before under a cloud of suspicion, he's returned to put down roots. When he comes face-to-face with the woman who shares his troubled past, he hardly recognizes the driven powerhouse Megan has become. Now she has big decisions to make—about life, love and where home really is. Jake's only too happy to help Megan rediscover their old dreams—and maybe this time, fulfill them forever.
This was a great start to the new series. I just wish that there were more books in the series because it is only two books. This is the first installment of the Whispering Winds which gave us lots of insight into the impact that Tex had on every one's life after he was gone. Megan came home to plan her grandfather's funeral and found out that she was now going to be mother to her grandfather's daughter who she never knew about. Then Megan is reunited with Jake, her ex-boyfriend that was run off my Tex many years ago. It is very interesting to get to know all three of these characters as well as some other friends in the small Wyoming town. I hope that you check out this book and others by this wonderful author. I enjoyed this series and was super excited to read the second book (review coming soon). I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did!
Megan O'Rourke's beloved grandfather had always been determined to lure her out of New York and back to their ranch in Whispering Wind, Wyoming. Now his will makes it impossible for her to refuse. She's named guardian of Tex's daughter—a daughter Megan never knew about!
Jake Landers has also come home to Whispering Wind. After leaving years before under a cloud of suspicion, he's returned to put down roots. When he comes face-to-face with the woman who shares his troubled past, he hardly recognizes the driven powerhouse Megan has become. Now she has big decisions to make—about life, love and where home really is. Jake's only too happy to help Megan rediscover their old dreams—and maybe this time, fulfill them forever.
This was a great start to the new series. I just wish that there were more books in the series because it is only two books. This is the first installment of the Whispering Winds which gave us lots of insight into the impact that Tex had on every one's life after he was gone. Megan came home to plan her grandfather's funeral and found out that she was now going to be mother to her grandfather's daughter who she never knew about. Then Megan is reunited with Jake, her ex-boyfriend that was run off my Tex many years ago. It is very interesting to get to know all three of these characters as well as some other friends in the small Wyoming town. I hope that you check out this book and others by this wonderful author. I enjoyed this series and was super excited to read the second book (review coming soon). I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did!
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Final and Heartbreaking End to Super Doubles
I decided to go one more time and see if there were a few more things that I could pick up at Super Doubles while getting one more item to do a Ibotta rebate on to get the $5 bonus.
I used my last three coupons to get 4 free Barber Chickens. I used one more coupon to get the only Kame items left in the store- two pad thai sauces (super sad because I had a bunch more coupons and didn't get to use them because they were always out of stock). I grabbed four packets for Ortega Taco Powder which were free after coupon.
I got one box of the Tazo tea in a different flavor to see if it would ring up correctly and give me the $1.50 electronic coupon off this time. It is shelf price of $4.39 and after sale and coupon, it ends up being $0.50 so even at that price it seems like a good Christmas gift for my mother so I bought it. I will take back the receipt when one of the nicer customer service people is there and see if I can get the $1.50 back.
I grabbed a package of Orbit Bubblemint gum because it was one of the only flavors on the rebate that they carried in the store. It was on sale for $0.99 and the rebate was for $0.50 so worth the $0.49 to get the additional rebate as well as my husband likes gum when he is working in the yard.
My huge splurge was the four boxes of Big Chewy Granola Bars which my son and husband are addicted to! I would love to go back and count how many I have bought since the end of the summer but it seems we are well into the double digits. We only had two boxes left. They are shelf price at $2.69 and they were on sale for $2.00 with an additional evic store deal for $1.77 limit 4. I bought the limit to add to the cupboard and told me husband that I was going to start rationing them. He thought I was joking but I might have to hide the granola bars to make sure!!! So my total was crazy high because the granola bars alone were over $7.
I grabbed a few more rain checks but I don't know how helpful they will be and if I will even use them because it seems that the coupons and rain checks don't always go together later on some of these items. I guess I will see but you would be shocked to see my huge folder of rain checks that I already have since the Harris Teeter rain checks are good forever and never expire. I will be able to set the price on a lot of items for a long time with those neat little pieces of paper. They often come in handy when I am totally out of something and it isn't one sale so I am glad to have my rain check collection.
I used my last three coupons to get 4 free Barber Chickens. I used one more coupon to get the only Kame items left in the store- two pad thai sauces (super sad because I had a bunch more coupons and didn't get to use them because they were always out of stock). I grabbed four packets for Ortega Taco Powder which were free after coupon.
I got one box of the Tazo tea in a different flavor to see if it would ring up correctly and give me the $1.50 electronic coupon off this time. It is shelf price of $4.39 and after sale and coupon, it ends up being $0.50 so even at that price it seems like a good Christmas gift for my mother so I bought it. I will take back the receipt when one of the nicer customer service people is there and see if I can get the $1.50 back.
I grabbed a package of Orbit Bubblemint gum because it was one of the only flavors on the rebate that they carried in the store. It was on sale for $0.99 and the rebate was for $0.50 so worth the $0.49 to get the additional rebate as well as my husband likes gum when he is working in the yard.
My huge splurge was the four boxes of Big Chewy Granola Bars which my son and husband are addicted to! I would love to go back and count how many I have bought since the end of the summer but it seems we are well into the double digits. We only had two boxes left. They are shelf price at $2.69 and they were on sale for $2.00 with an additional evic store deal for $1.77 limit 4. I bought the limit to add to the cupboard and told me husband that I was going to start rationing them. He thought I was joking but I might have to hide the granola bars to make sure!!! So my total was crazy high because the granola bars alone were over $7.
I grabbed a few more rain checks but I don't know how helpful they will be and if I will even use them because it seems that the coupons and rain checks don't always go together later on some of these items. I guess I will see but you would be shocked to see my huge folder of rain checks that I already have since the Harris Teeter rain checks are good forever and never expire. I will be able to set the price on a lot of items for a long time with those neat little pieces of paper. They often come in handy when I am totally out of something and it isn't one sale so I am glad to have my rain check collection.
Total Retail $41.41
Total Savings $33.21
Total OOP $8.20
I wasn't super happy with my trip but I am glad that I went to
finish out the super doubles and get the items that I had coupons for
that were in stock. I certainly would have been a lot less happy if I
spent $41 on this very small amount of food so I will look at the
shopping cart half full :)
The Devaney Brothers: Daniel's Desire Book Review
I was excited to figure out how to download my first Kindle book from the library (okay so I didn't know how to do that so I made my husband help). I got The Devaney Brothers: Daniel: Daniel's Desire (The Devaneys) by Sherryl Woods and I was excited to start reading the last installment of the Devaney Brothers book. It was a little different to read on the iPad but I was glad to have the chance to read the final book in the series.
When a runaway teen surfaces at Molly Creighton's tavern, Daniel Devaney's job as a child advocate forces him to investigate…and to confront his tumultuous past with Molly. Though a tragic loss shattered their relationship four years ago, Daniel is now ready to accept responsibility for their breakup and make a fresh start.
Their overwhelming attraction is undulled by time, but Molly fears risking her heart again. Daniel vows to banish the shadows from her eyes and prove he is the man she needs him to be. And with his brothers and parents at last reconciled, Daniel's deepest longing—for family—is almost fulfilled….
I was so excited to start reading even though I didn't have the paperback book in my hand. It was a little hard to read in bed but I figured it out and it wasn't any heavier then a hardback book. I actually still carried this with me during the day in case I got a little time to read this while I was out and about. I did get to pull it out once too :) I always travel with my books so it was an interesting change to have it on the iPad instead. There was a lot more getting to know Daniel which was an interesting addition to the family. In addition, the family all got together for the first time since they left the three oldest boys. The reunion was stressful but interesting to watch unfold. I thought that it was a great end to a wonderful series about all of the brothers in this family. I hope that you check it out and see for yourself through your local library or online (since I only see it available electronically).
When a runaway teen surfaces at Molly Creighton's tavern, Daniel Devaney's job as a child advocate forces him to investigate…and to confront his tumultuous past with Molly. Though a tragic loss shattered their relationship four years ago, Daniel is now ready to accept responsibility for their breakup and make a fresh start.
Their overwhelming attraction is undulled by time, but Molly fears risking her heart again. Daniel vows to banish the shadows from her eyes and prove he is the man she needs him to be. And with his brothers and parents at last reconciled, Daniel's deepest longing—for family—is almost fulfilled….
I was so excited to start reading even though I didn't have the paperback book in my hand. It was a little hard to read in bed but I figured it out and it wasn't any heavier then a hardback book. I actually still carried this with me during the day in case I got a little time to read this while I was out and about. I did get to pull it out once too :) I always travel with my books so it was an interesting change to have it on the iPad instead. There was a lot more getting to know Daniel which was an interesting addition to the family. In addition, the family all got together for the first time since they left the three oldest boys. The reunion was stressful but interesting to watch unfold. I thought that it was a great end to a wonderful series about all of the brothers in this family. I hope that you check it out and see for yourself through your local library or online (since I only see it available electronically).
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
A New Hope Book Review
I went to the library to get the newspapers and pick up the the books on reserve. I was excited to get two things checked off my weekend to do list but I was running hours late. I was excited to see A New Hope (Thunder Point) by Robyn Carr there because I had been waiting for it forever. I had just finished my previous book so instead of picking up the next book in the pile, I grabbed this book and finished it in about one day. I didn't get a lot of sleep but I did get a lot of reading done.
Starting over is never easy, but in Thunder Point, where newcomers are welcome and friends become family, it's possible to find yourself again. #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr takes us on a moving and rewarding journey as a young woman finds new hope.
After losing her child, Ginger Dysart was lost in grief. But since moving to Thunder Point, a small town on the Oregon coast, Ginger is finally moving forward. Her job at the flower shop is peaceful and fulfilling, and she's excited to be assisting with the Lacoumette wedding.
In spite of her lasting heartache, Ginger is swept up in the pleasure of the occasion. But the beauty of the Lacoumette farm and the joy of the gregarious family are ruined by an unfortunate encounter with the bride's brother, Matt. Struggling with painful memories of his own, Matt makes a drunken spectacle of himself when he tries to make a pass at Ginger, forcing her to flee the scene in embarrassment.
But when Matt shows up at the flower shop determined to make amends, what started out as a humiliating first meeting blossoms into something much deeper than either of them expected. Everyone around them worries that Ginger will end up with a broken heart yet again. But if Ginger has the courage to embrace the future, and if Matt can finally learn to let go of the past, there may still be hope for a happy ending.
I loved it!!! Read in less than 24 hours and couldn't put it down. I was immediately into the book because I remembered the last book as soon as I started. I love the characters and couldn't wait to find out what happened next with Ginger who we met in the last book. She came out of a deep depression over the loss of her child and in this book, we get to see her put her life back together. It is great to get to know Ginger more and see her grow in love. I hope that you check this out at your local library or bookstore. This is a great series and so excited to see the next book in this great series.
Starting over is never easy, but in Thunder Point, where newcomers are welcome and friends become family, it's possible to find yourself again. #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr takes us on a moving and rewarding journey as a young woman finds new hope.
After losing her child, Ginger Dysart was lost in grief. But since moving to Thunder Point, a small town on the Oregon coast, Ginger is finally moving forward. Her job at the flower shop is peaceful and fulfilling, and she's excited to be assisting with the Lacoumette wedding.
In spite of her lasting heartache, Ginger is swept up in the pleasure of the occasion. But the beauty of the Lacoumette farm and the joy of the gregarious family are ruined by an unfortunate encounter with the bride's brother, Matt. Struggling with painful memories of his own, Matt makes a drunken spectacle of himself when he tries to make a pass at Ginger, forcing her to flee the scene in embarrassment.
But when Matt shows up at the flower shop determined to make amends, what started out as a humiliating first meeting blossoms into something much deeper than either of them expected. Everyone around them worries that Ginger will end up with a broken heart yet again. But if Ginger has the courage to embrace the future, and if Matt can finally learn to let go of the past, there may still be hope for a happy ending.
I loved it!!! Read in less than 24 hours and couldn't put it down. I was immediately into the book because I remembered the last book as soon as I started. I love the characters and couldn't wait to find out what happened next with Ginger who we met in the last book. She came out of a deep depression over the loss of her child and in this book, we get to see her put her life back together. It is great to get to know Ginger more and see her grow in love. I hope that you check this out at your local library or bookstore. This is a great series and so excited to see the next book in this great series.
Monday, October 19, 2015
Maybe the Last Trip to Super Doubles?
I went to Super Doubles to see if that stocked a few more things at the store and I was pretty happy to get enough time to do one more trip.
I grabbed some more freebies including 3 boxes of Barber chicken, four Kame stir fry sauce, two Kame noodles, and Reynold's baking cups.
I got five packages of lunch meat for $0.49 each after coupon. I got 10 more cans of chicken noodle soup for $0.40 each. I grabbed 3 more chickens so that I would be above the $15 total so that I could use my $3 off $15 coupon from Wegman's. Plus who can't use lots of chickens in the freezer!! I got a 2 lb bag of rice that was $0.97 which would cover my rice needs for a little bit since I haven't been getting the Mahatma rice coupons that I normally get. Hoping that I will get some good deals and stock up soon.
I got the garlic bread to redeem another rebate on Ibotta (although I was tempted not to get it but only 2 away from the $5 bonus). I was interested to see if I was going to get the extra $0.75 bonus again but I didn't get it :( I am 91% towards the $5 bonus so it looks like I am going to have to search for a certain flavor of gum to get the one remaining Ibotta rebate!
Tomorrow I have to work and then I have a staff meeting and I might have to work at my other job so I am not sure if I will have enough time to get shopping fit in as well and it is the last day of super doubles. I am hopeful that I will fit in one more super low total trip to get some freebies but we will see!!
I grabbed some more freebies including 3 boxes of Barber chicken, four Kame stir fry sauce, two Kame noodles, and Reynold's baking cups.
I got five packages of lunch meat for $0.49 each after coupon. I got 10 more cans of chicken noodle soup for $0.40 each. I grabbed 3 more chickens so that I would be above the $15 total so that I could use my $3 off $15 coupon from Wegman's. Plus who can't use lots of chickens in the freezer!! I got a 2 lb bag of rice that was $0.97 which would cover my rice needs for a little bit since I haven't been getting the Mahatma rice coupons that I normally get. Hoping that I will get some good deals and stock up soon.
I got the garlic bread to redeem another rebate on Ibotta (although I was tempted not to get it but only 2 away from the $5 bonus). I was interested to see if I was going to get the extra $0.75 bonus again but I didn't get it :( I am 91% towards the $5 bonus so it looks like I am going to have to search for a certain flavor of gum to get the one remaining Ibotta rebate!
Total Retail $82.83
Total Saving $63.09
Total OOP $19.74
Tomorrow I have to work and then I have a staff meeting and I might have to work at my other job so I am not sure if I will have enough time to get shopping fit in as well and it is the last day of super doubles. I am hopeful that I will fit in one more super low total trip to get some freebies but we will see!!
Menu Plan Monday 10/19
Monday- Roast Beef Sandwiches with mac and cheese
Tuesday- Pasta
Wednesday- Barber Stuffed Chicken with white or saffron rice
Thursday- Chicken Fries and Popcorn Chicken with homemade fries
Friday- Leftovers
Saturday-Leftovers (?)
Sunday- Breakfast for Dinner
We followed the menu pretty well last week except on Saturday, friends came over and brought pizza so we got to have that for Saturday night. On Sunday, my son had breakfast stuff and my husband had leftovers so it was a mix of Saturday and Sunday plans. We actually ran out of white rice so we had chicken rice which was also the last one of that kind too. We just have spicy and regular saffron rice left so I better get some rice for this week or we are going to be having saffron rice on Wednesday.
Well, the last few weeks have gotten a little crazy with everything going on and I messed up the menu plan because I did two at a time. Then I had super busy time with super doubles where I was working to get lots of good deals while they were available between sales and rain checks. I spent the holiday weekend cutting all my coupons and getting rid of all of the expired coupons out of my heavy coupons basket so that I would be ready to roll. I was hoping to stock up on a lot of things to fill the rest of the months menu plan so this week was a little blank to begin with but here is what I came up with. I hope that you have a yummy week.
Sunday, October 18, 2015
Sunday at Harris Teeter Super Doubles
UGH! I am exhausted!! I went to Harris Teeter to grab some of the deals that I had been working on printing coupons and it seems like the crowds were a little nicer today. I guess Saturday crowds are in a hurry!! Sunday crowds either went to church or are relaxed from their weekend adventures because I didn't have to fight for a spot in the grocery store but that didn't hold true for the streets because someone was speeding and almost crashed into me to get to the light. They swerved around me and pulled in the other lane and narrowly avoided a police car. Do you think that the police car would stop and see if things were okay? Nope! They both kept going and was sitting in the middle of the lane and not able to turn for a little bit.
Additionally, I remembered AFTER getting home that I was supposed to use the rebate card and not my credit card so I was a little bummed that I totally forgot to use it. I wasn't ready when I got to the check out because there was a person in front of me that was taken to another register to check out. I did two transactions, one for the items that had Ibotta rebates and one for all the other stuff I was getting.
The rebate checkout is the first picture. I grabbed the Chobani yogurt Simply 100 and Chobani Oats and used the coupons. The shelf price was $1.20 and I bought 6 yogurts and used two coupons for $1/3 so they were I got $1.00 Ibotta for the Simply 100, $0.50 for the Oats and $0.50 bonus for doing both.
I got the Bigelow Tea (shelf price $2.99) which was on sale for $1.50 and there was a $0.75 Ibotta rebate. I am putting it in my mom's Christmas stocking.
I got the Jose Ole Taquitos which were the crazy high price of $6.25 shelf price!!! I used the $2 coupon which doubled and then got a $2 Ibotta rebate so it ended up being $0.25 after all those and my husband loves them!
I grabbed the Pepperidge Farm Microwave Garlic Bread (shelf price $2.99) on sale for $1.50 and there was a $0.75 Ibotta rebate that I got again but I don't think that it is there to get for a fourth time!
I got the McCormick Skillet Sauces last. They were shelf price at $1.99 and not on sale. I used the $1/2 coupon which doubled so they were both $0.99. There was a $0.50 Ibotta rebate and $0.50 Saving Star rebate. I figure that these seemed like fun ones to try even though I shouldn't have bought them especially because I didn't even look to see if I had a rain check.
I got the Tazo tea because it was on sale for $3.50 and there was a coupon for $1.50 which doubles (after being overridden by customer service) and there was supposed to be a store coupon that came off but it didn't work. I went to customer service and they gave it to me for one card but not for the second transaction. I didn't want to push my luck but I was bummed. I will get the other one later when one of the nicer customer service people is working.
I got a $1.00 bonus for finishing the October Level 1 bonus. I am also 35% towards October Level 2 for $2 and 83% towards the Spooktacular Boost for $5 (which I think means I need 2 more rebates but I don't see anymore that I am going to be able to use so I am hopeful but )
Additionally, I remembered AFTER getting home that I was supposed to use the rebate card and not my credit card so I was a little bummed that I totally forgot to use it. I wasn't ready when I got to the check out because there was a person in front of me that was taken to another register to check out. I did two transactions, one for the items that had Ibotta rebates and one for all the other stuff I was getting.
The rebate checkout is the first picture. I grabbed the Chobani yogurt Simply 100 and Chobani Oats and used the coupons. The shelf price was $1.20 and I bought 6 yogurts and used two coupons for $1/3 so they were I got $1.00 Ibotta for the Simply 100, $0.50 for the Oats and $0.50 bonus for doing both.
I got the Bigelow Tea (shelf price $2.99) which was on sale for $1.50 and there was a $0.75 Ibotta rebate. I am putting it in my mom's Christmas stocking.
I got the Jose Ole Taquitos which were the crazy high price of $6.25 shelf price!!! I used the $2 coupon which doubled and then got a $2 Ibotta rebate so it ended up being $0.25 after all those and my husband loves them!
I grabbed the Pepperidge Farm Microwave Garlic Bread (shelf price $2.99) on sale for $1.50 and there was a $0.75 Ibotta rebate that I got again but I don't think that it is there to get for a fourth time!
I got the McCormick Skillet Sauces last. They were shelf price at $1.99 and not on sale. I used the $1/2 coupon which doubled so they were both $0.99. There was a $0.50 Ibotta rebate and $0.50 Saving Star rebate. I figure that these seemed like fun ones to try even though I shouldn't have bought them especially because I didn't even look to see if I had a rain check.
I got the Tazo tea because it was on sale for $3.50 and there was a coupon for $1.50 which doubles (after being overridden by customer service) and there was supposed to be a store coupon that came off but it didn't work. I went to customer service and they gave it to me for one card but not for the second transaction. I didn't want to push my luck but I was bummed. I will get the other one later when one of the nicer customer service people is working.
I got a $1.00 bonus for finishing the October Level 1 bonus. I am also 35% towards October Level 2 for $2 and 83% towards the Spooktacular Boost for $5 (which I think means I need 2 more rebates but I don't see anymore that I am going to be able to use so I am hopeful but )
Total Retail $28.84
Total Savings $17.21 +$1.54
cash back for missed coupon
Total OOP $10.09
Ibotta Rebates $7.00
Savings Star Rebates $0.50
Here was my other transaction at the store with the rest of the items that I got. I got four boxes of Barber Chicken Kiev (my husband's favorite one), four packages of Kame noodles, two Kame sauces, two Playtex gloves, and Ristorante Pizzas for free.
I got Melt coconut butter for $0.29, Earth Balance Peanut Butter Coconut $0.50 each, Kahiki Chicken Egg Rolls for $0.19 each, and Tazo Tea bags for $0.50 (note above about missing store coupon).
Then I grabbed 10 cans of Chicken Noodle soup (shelf price $11.50) for $8. I used two $1/5 coupons which doubles to $2 off. All 10 cans were then $4 or $0.40 per can. I think that is a pretty good price but we were totally out so I needed to grab some to stock up anyway.
Total Retail $94.64
Total Savings $89.44
Total OOP $5.20
I got a ton of things in the second transaction and I got overage from a few coupons to pay for the items that I got to cover because it should have been at least $1 or $2 more but that worked out pretty well even though I didn't get $1.50 store coupon for the Tazo yet. I hope to get that back next time and be able to subtract that from my OOP and add it to the savings soon. Love getting great deals!! I need to go back and get some more!!!! Only two more days :)
Weekend Harris Teeter Super Double Trips
I went to Harris Teeter yesterday before soccer. I left early with enough time to grab newspapers at the library so that I could check what the coupons were going to be this week. I was super excited to find the insert with the Kame coupon for $1.50/2 noodles or sauce which was on sale for $1.50 each. I grabbed four of each and used the coupons to get them for free!!! I also got the remaining Barber Chickens that were on the shelf... my husband was a little sad that the still don't have his kind and that I got mushroom but I told them that both of our mothers would love them and they were free!!! I also got three Pronto pasta because I only had three coupons left. I was a little sad about that but I guess I got a lot more recently then I thought I had! I also found the Playtex gloves in stock which were free but I only had printed one coupon (UGH!) so hoping that I can get another one if there are any more in stock when I go back.
I got the microwave garlic bread which ended up being free after the two Ibotta rebates. One for getting the bread and the other for redeeming it twice. So it cost to $1.49 at the store and the rebates were for $1.50. I am tempted to try it again and see if I can get every second one for free. It seems like a good deal plus it racks up the Ibotta rebates which are currently giving pretty good bonuses if I get a bunch more before the end of the month.
I used a rain check to get the sugar for buy one, get one free and I used four coupons to get them for way less then the $3.69 shelf price for about $0.85 each.
Then came my huge splurge for my husband's favorite Redd's Apple Ale ($13.99). There was a mixed pack with apple, strawberry and cranberry which sounded really fun. There was an Ibotta rebate for $2 off and there was another rebate for $5 off when you bought pizza. I grabbed the Red Barron pizza and used the $1/2 to make them $2.99 each since they weren't on sale. I figured that after the two rebates and any overage from the other coupons that they would be practically free anyway and nice to have in the freezer.
I earned $7.75 in Ibotta rebates for this trip and an additional $0.75 bonus for the garlic bread. If I submit for three more rebates before 10/25 over $0.25 then I get an additional $1 rebate. There is another bonus that it says I am 33% toward so I would need 8 more rebates to get $5 additional. I don't know if I can do that before the 10/25 date but we will see because that is a lot of money in addition to the other money. I am going to do another Chobani deal and the garlic bread and hopefully the McCormick Skillet sauces to earn at least 4 more. I will do the garlic bread again if it brings up the bonus to get the next one for free again. Then I would only need to do three more to get the $5 bonus!! Who knows but I have never done this much Ibotta before but my total is already up to $31.55
In addition, I used a prepaid card that we got for a rebate on buying our appliances but I am still counting this as a cost out of pocket because I don't know how else to do it. We also have some rebates for the paint that we bought at Home Depot that we might be using soon. I like to get rid of them as quickly as possible and use them for all purchases so they might be spent at Home Depot to buy some insulation for our attic which is our next project in the house...after my husband installs all the ceiling fans.
I got the microwave garlic bread which ended up being free after the two Ibotta rebates. One for getting the bread and the other for redeeming it twice. So it cost to $1.49 at the store and the rebates were for $1.50. I am tempted to try it again and see if I can get every second one for free. It seems like a good deal plus it racks up the Ibotta rebates which are currently giving pretty good bonuses if I get a bunch more before the end of the month.
I used a rain check to get the sugar for buy one, get one free and I used four coupons to get them for way less then the $3.69 shelf price for about $0.85 each.
Then came my huge splurge for my husband's favorite Redd's Apple Ale ($13.99). There was a mixed pack with apple, strawberry and cranberry which sounded really fun. There was an Ibotta rebate for $2 off and there was another rebate for $5 off when you bought pizza. I grabbed the Red Barron pizza and used the $1/2 to make them $2.99 each since they weren't on sale. I figured that after the two rebates and any overage from the other coupons that they would be practically free anyway and nice to have in the freezer.
Total Retail $94.09
Total Savings $62.49 + $7.38 for Dominos Rain Check
Total OOP $24.22
I earned $7.75 in Ibotta rebates for this trip and an additional $0.75 bonus for the garlic bread. If I submit for three more rebates before 10/25 over $0.25 then I get an additional $1 rebate. There is another bonus that it says I am 33% toward so I would need 8 more rebates to get $5 additional. I don't know if I can do that before the 10/25 date but we will see because that is a lot of money in addition to the other money. I am going to do another Chobani deal and the garlic bread and hopefully the McCormick Skillet sauces to earn at least 4 more. I will do the garlic bread again if it brings up the bonus to get the next one for free again. Then I would only need to do three more to get the $5 bonus!! Who knows but I have never done this much Ibotta before but my total is already up to $31.55
In addition, I used a prepaid card that we got for a rebate on buying our appliances but I am still counting this as a cost out of pocket because I don't know how else to do it. We also have some rebates for the paint that we bought at Home Depot that we might be using soon. I like to get rid of them as quickly as possible and use them for all purchases so they might be spent at Home Depot to buy some insulation for our attic which is our next project in the house...after my husband installs all the ceiling fans.
Saturday, October 17, 2015
Second trip to HT Super Doubles Excitement!!
I was exhausted after a long week but I knew that I needed to get back to super doubles and see if they had any stock left at the store. I was excited to get a few good deals and see some things back on the shelves even though I still had to get a bunch of rain checks. I grabbed some free Pronto pasta and Barber Chicken.
I grabbed 5 packages of Ortega taco seasonings (our first choice in taco powders) because I had a $1/2 coupons but they would double to $2 each so I wanted to make sure that the $4 in coupons was covered just in case so I could get all the coupon value and not have it adjusted down. It turns out that they were so busy that they didn't even pay attention that I could have bought only 4 and gotten the overage to cover the cost of the other groceries. You just never know :)
I grabbed the Pepperidge Farm Garlic bread for the microwave which I guess is new . We never buy garlic bread and prefer to just make it at home but we have friends and family coming through most of November so it will come in handy and look a little nicer for serving. It was on sale for half price at $1.50 and there was a $0.75 Ibotta rebate so it seemed like a good splurge (especially because I was hoping for overage from the coupons so I like to put in a little wiggle room).
I grabbed Alexia tater tots which we haven't gotten before. They were shelf price of $3.69 but on sale for $2.50. I had two coupons that I am not sure when I printed for $0.75 so they doubled and made each bag $1. I figure that is a good price for them even though they weren't even on my list of things that I thought I was going to get.
I grabbed two packages for Gerber fruit which were $1.20 and I had a coupon $1/2 so they were $0.20 each.
I used a rain check to get the Domino's sugar for $1.77 each and I used a $0.50 coupon which doubled making them $0.77 per 4 lb bag.
I was looking to get a few more deals because I can only use 20 coupons per day and I hadn't reached the limit but I knew that I reached the limit of my time and energy so I left so that I didn't get things that we wouldn't need.
I grabbed 5 packages of Ortega taco seasonings (our first choice in taco powders) because I had a $1/2 coupons but they would double to $2 each so I wanted to make sure that the $4 in coupons was covered just in case so I could get all the coupon value and not have it adjusted down. It turns out that they were so busy that they didn't even pay attention that I could have bought only 4 and gotten the overage to cover the cost of the other groceries. You just never know :)
I grabbed the Pepperidge Farm Garlic bread for the microwave which I guess is new . We never buy garlic bread and prefer to just make it at home but we have friends and family coming through most of November so it will come in handy and look a little nicer for serving. It was on sale for half price at $1.50 and there was a $0.75 Ibotta rebate so it seemed like a good splurge (especially because I was hoping for overage from the coupons so I like to put in a little wiggle room).
I grabbed Alexia tater tots which we haven't gotten before. They were shelf price of $3.69 but on sale for $2.50. I had two coupons that I am not sure when I printed for $0.75 so they doubled and made each bag $1. I figure that is a good price for them even though they weren't even on my list of things that I thought I was going to get.
I grabbed two packages for Gerber fruit which were $1.20 and I had a coupon $1/2 so they were $0.20 each.
I used a rain check to get the Domino's sugar for $1.77 each and I used a $0.50 coupon which doubled making them $0.77 per 4 lb bag.
I was looking to get a few more deals because I can only use 20 coupons per day and I hadn't reached the limit but I knew that I reached the limit of my time and energy so I left so that I didn't get things that we wouldn't need.
Total Retail $49.31
Total Savings $42.55 + $3.84(from rain check)= $46.39
Total OOP $2.92
I was excited by the haul that I got (even though it was only two grocery bags) because I spent under $3. It made me want to go to another Harris Teeter and see what they had left to start shopping all over again but I went home to unpack and get ready for my job as after school coordinator before taking my son home and making dinner.
Wouldn't you be excited to buy all this for under $3?????
Friday, October 16, 2015
Miracle Drug Book Review
I got Miracle Drug by Richard L. Mabry M.D because I have loved everything that he has written. I decided that I would check out this new thriller. I was super excited when it came in the mail. I wanted to start on it right away but it was farther away then my deadline on some of the other books so I put it off until I found out that it was the next book I had to review and I happily picked it up!
The infection wasn’t supposed to happen, but it did. The treatment was supposed to take care of it, but it didn’t. Dr. Josh Pearson must get his hands on a particular experimental drug for his patients, which include the President of the United States, for them to have a chance against this different strain of the original virus. But Josh learns that the manufacturer may have already discarded the only supply of the drug. Without it the President and Josh’s other patients will most certainly die. And then Josh is hit with more devastating news: Rachel Moore, a nurse with whom he is falling in love, becomes ill making Josh even more desperate to find the medication. Overcoming these odds will take more than a miracle drug—it will take
I loved it and finished it super fast because I couldn't put it down. Even though it specifically tells you at the beginning that this is a work of fiction, it is something you can totally see happening (which is probably why there was a disclaimer at the beginning). It seems that it would make an amazing movie!! The characters were really great because as the reader, I felt like I was in the middle of the action and trying to figure out who the good guys and the bad guys were. It was really hard to tell and it had me on the edge of my seat. I loaned the book to my mother and she said that she was hooked by chapter one! I can't wait to see what she thinks of it when she is done. I hope that you check out this book at your local library or bookstore soon!
**I got a copy of this book for my review and honest opinion. All opinions here are my own.
The infection wasn’t supposed to happen, but it did. The treatment was supposed to take care of it, but it didn’t. Dr. Josh Pearson must get his hands on a particular experimental drug for his patients, which include the President of the United States, for them to have a chance against this different strain of the original virus. But Josh learns that the manufacturer may have already discarded the only supply of the drug. Without it the President and Josh’s other patients will most certainly die. And then Josh is hit with more devastating news: Rachel Moore, a nurse with whom he is falling in love, becomes ill making Josh even more desperate to find the medication. Overcoming these odds will take more than a miracle drug—it will take
I loved it and finished it super fast because I couldn't put it down. Even though it specifically tells you at the beginning that this is a work of fiction, it is something you can totally see happening (which is probably why there was a disclaimer at the beginning). It seems that it would make an amazing movie!! The characters were really great because as the reader, I felt like I was in the middle of the action and trying to figure out who the good guys and the bad guys were. It was really hard to tell and it had me on the edge of my seat. I loaned the book to my mother and she said that she was hooked by chapter one! I can't wait to see what she thinks of it when she is done. I hope that you check out this book at your local library or bookstore soon!
**I got a copy of this book for my review and honest opinion. All opinions here are my own.
Review posted on Amazon and Good Reads
Thursday, October 15, 2015
The Devaney Brothers: Michael's Discovery and Patrick's Destiny Book Review
I grabbed this one at the same time as the first two stories from the library. The Devaney Brothers: Michael and Patrick: Michael's Discovery\Patrick's Destiny (The Devaneys) by Sherryl Woods, the second book in this series. I was super excited to read this next installment and find out more of the stories of these great brothers.
Michael's Discovery
For years, Kelly Andrews has waited for her big brother's best friend to notice her. As the physical therapist assigned to his recovery, she's finally getting the chance. But navy SEAL Michael Devaney is broken in body and spirit, and all he sees is himself—as half a man. He's sure he'll never be enough for the beautiful and vibrant Kelly. Can Kelly convince him that he's all the man she would ever need?
Patrick's Destiny
Devastated by the discovery of a terrible family secret, Patrick Devaney has shut out the world. But enchanting kindergarten teacher Alice Newberry sees the hurt in his eyes and is determined to help Patrick find peace. She knows it will take a lesson in love and forgiveness to coax the brooding fisherman out of hiding. Soon, Patrick begins to hope, but before he can truly claim Alice as his own, he has to face the greatest challenge of his life—his past.
Another great book with two great stories included. The first book was great and this was even better because you got to know more about this wonderful family of brothers. Michael was the third brother and he was wounded in battle. It is amazing to see him fight with trying to recovering while dealing with finding out about his two older brothers. He is learning to walk again and how to fit in with his "new" family. Patrick had left behind his family that he had grown up with including his twin brother because he finds out the big family secret that his parents had left his older three brothers to live in foster care. Both brothers dealt with a lot of different problems but the main one was trying to find room in their hearts for the women that they loved. I can't wait to check out the fifth brothers book that I am going to get electronically from the library!!
Michael's Discovery
For years, Kelly Andrews has waited for her big brother's best friend to notice her. As the physical therapist assigned to his recovery, she's finally getting the chance. But navy SEAL Michael Devaney is broken in body and spirit, and all he sees is himself—as half a man. He's sure he'll never be enough for the beautiful and vibrant Kelly. Can Kelly convince him that he's all the man she would ever need?
Patrick's Destiny
Devastated by the discovery of a terrible family secret, Patrick Devaney has shut out the world. But enchanting kindergarten teacher Alice Newberry sees the hurt in his eyes and is determined to help Patrick find peace. She knows it will take a lesson in love and forgiveness to coax the brooding fisherman out of hiding. Soon, Patrick begins to hope, but before he can truly claim Alice as his own, he has to face the greatest challenge of his life—his past.
Another great book with two great stories included. The first book was great and this was even better because you got to know more about this wonderful family of brothers. Michael was the third brother and he was wounded in battle. It is amazing to see him fight with trying to recovering while dealing with finding out about his two older brothers. He is learning to walk again and how to fit in with his "new" family. Patrick had left behind his family that he had grown up with including his twin brother because he finds out the big family secret that his parents had left his older three brothers to live in foster care. Both brothers dealt with a lot of different problems but the main one was trying to find room in their hearts for the women that they loved. I can't wait to check out the fifth brothers book that I am going to get electronically from the library!!
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
First Day of Super Doubles Excitement at Harris Teeter!!
I have the busiest week this week yet and of course, it is super doubles!! AHHHH, I wish that I could plan my schedule around these sales but we barely know until it is upon us. My husband took a few days off this week and I am super glad because I wouldn't have been able to make it through otherwise. He has been taking my little man to school in the morning so that I could make it to work without being late which is super good because it was picture days and other things that I needed to be early for work which I wouldn't have made if I had to drop my son off. Also great because I signed him up for his monthly Magic Tree House book club which I now can't take him to because I have to do the attendance at the after school enrichment program. Dad to the rescue for the little man.
Did I tell you that I have a problem saying yes and signing up for too many things?? I went to work at 8:30 am and worked until noon today. That left enough time to run to super doubles quickly and drop everything off at home to go in the freezer before running to school to stuff envelopes for the kids Tuesday folders (those of you who don't have those at your school, they are a folder of all of the kids papers from the previous week so that the parents don't get mashed up papers in the bottom of the kids bags every day which are stuffed by parent volunteers). After stuffing the folders which took me an hour, I had enough time to make it into the library to find out what they needed help with because I signed up to do that too. Then, I went to grab the kids to go to Zumba after school (along with my own child) and did all of my requirements for the one class and went home to do our family homework assignment of a family quilt square while cooking dinner. I can't keep this up but hopefully this means that I get a nice night sleep tonight.
I got four free Barber chicken, Kame Udon Noodles, Kame Spicy Stir Fry Sauce, and three boxes of Barilla Pronto pasta.
I got the Land O Frost Roast Beef (shelf price $3.79) after sale and coupon $1.90 to make yummy grilled roast beef sandwiches on homemade rolls with melted jack cheese and horseradish mustard YUM!
I got a bottle of Franks Red Hot Wings sauce (shelf price $3.49) for $0.94 after sale and coupon. There was a Ibotta rebate for $0.20 additional savings.
I got the Melt Coconut Oil butter for $0.29 after sale and coupon which is perfect for cooking and baking in case you haven't tried it yet.
I got two Cabot Cheese which I forgot to use my rain check but it was on sale for $2.50 and I got two coupons for $0.50 from the festival last weekend so they were $1.50 each. Cheaper then Aldi's so still a good deal but could have saved another $1 with my rain check if I had my act together :(
I got a bag of Picsweet edamame that was on sale for half off so it was $0.94 but I didn't have any coupons but I thought it was still a good price and there was a $0.20 Ibotta rebate.
I picked up six Chobani Yogurt which were each $1.20 (shelf price $7.20). After sales and coupons, I got them for $3.20 or $0.53 each which is more then I would normally pay for yogurt but I got caught up in the rebate money. I got $1.00 for buying 2 of the Simply 100, and $0.75 for 2 of the Limited Edition, and $0.20 for any yogurt, and additional $0.50 for redeeming both so they are all $0.95 or $0.16 each. I think that is a pretty good deal and I am excited to try cinnamon pear, pumpkin, and raspberry lemonade.
I grabbed four whole chickens because they were on sale for $0.89 per pound so they were all 5 or 6 pounds so they were $5 or under.
Did I tell you that I have a problem saying yes and signing up for too many things?? I went to work at 8:30 am and worked until noon today. That left enough time to run to super doubles quickly and drop everything off at home to go in the freezer before running to school to stuff envelopes for the kids Tuesday folders (those of you who don't have those at your school, they are a folder of all of the kids papers from the previous week so that the parents don't get mashed up papers in the bottom of the kids bags every day which are stuffed by parent volunteers). After stuffing the folders which took me an hour, I had enough time to make it into the library to find out what they needed help with because I signed up to do that too. Then, I went to grab the kids to go to Zumba after school (along with my own child) and did all of my requirements for the one class and went home to do our family homework assignment of a family quilt square while cooking dinner. I can't keep this up but hopefully this means that I get a nice night sleep tonight.
I got four free Barber chicken, Kame Udon Noodles, Kame Spicy Stir Fry Sauce, and three boxes of Barilla Pronto pasta.
I got the Land O Frost Roast Beef (shelf price $3.79) after sale and coupon $1.90 to make yummy grilled roast beef sandwiches on homemade rolls with melted jack cheese and horseradish mustard YUM!
I got a bottle of Franks Red Hot Wings sauce (shelf price $3.49) for $0.94 after sale and coupon. There was a Ibotta rebate for $0.20 additional savings.
I got the Melt Coconut Oil butter for $0.29 after sale and coupon which is perfect for cooking and baking in case you haven't tried it yet.
I got two Cabot Cheese which I forgot to use my rain check but it was on sale for $2.50 and I got two coupons for $0.50 from the festival last weekend so they were $1.50 each. Cheaper then Aldi's so still a good deal but could have saved another $1 with my rain check if I had my act together :(
I got a bag of Picsweet edamame that was on sale for half off so it was $0.94 but I didn't have any coupons but I thought it was still a good price and there was a $0.20 Ibotta rebate.
I picked up six Chobani Yogurt which were each $1.20 (shelf price $7.20). After sales and coupons, I got them for $3.20 or $0.53 each which is more then I would normally pay for yogurt but I got caught up in the rebate money. I got $1.00 for buying 2 of the Simply 100, and $0.75 for 2 of the Limited Edition, and $0.20 for any yogurt, and additional $0.50 for redeeming both so they are all $0.95 or $0.16 each. I think that is a pretty good deal and I am excited to try cinnamon pear, pumpkin, and raspberry lemonade.
I grabbed four whole chickens because they were on sale for $0.89 per pound so they were all 5 or 6 pounds so they were $5 or under.
Total Retail $94.14
Total Savings $69.48
Total OOP $24.66
Total Ibotta Rebate $2.85
I spent more then I thought I would but I got to use my $3 off of $15 coupon and get lots of savings. I think that I also got overage on one one of my coupons to cover a little more of the cost. I need to get organized to shop like crazy again soon but I am not sure when I have enough time to go back....Ugh! All this working is getting in the way of my shopping. What do you think?
The Devaney Brothers: Ryan's Place and Sean's Reckoning Book Reviews
I went to the library to get something to read. My son was busy on the computer looking up books that he was interested in so I took the opportunity to pick out a few books. I grabbed The Devaney Brothers: Ryan and Sean: Ryan's Place\Sean's Reckoning (The Devaneys) by Sherryl Woods. I love having a smart phone because it is like having a computer in my bag. I can log on to the library website and look up the books to see what is in the same series and if there are any that are first in the series. I try to plan ahead to reserve books so that I don't have to do this but if I am in a bind with no time, I grab that smart phone and see what it tells me. I can stand right in the aisles of the library and find something to read!! I can even check to see if it is at another library and reserve something in the same series!! WHAT?! Technology is great and time saving!
Ryan's Place
Abandoned by his parents and separated from his brothers, Ryan Devaney doesn't believe in love. Until Maggie O'Brien storms into his Irish pub and her bright smile and tender touch have him reconsidering. The beautiful redhead warms his frozen spirit and awakens forgotten dreams—like the desire to search for his long-lost brothers. Will he dare to believe there's a place for them in happily-ever-after?
Sean's Reckoning
Son of a shattered family, fireman Sean Devaney knows love never lasts, so he refuses to chance it. Then he meets single mom Deanna Blackwell, who has just lost everything in a devastating fire. Despite the warning in Sean's head, he's drawn to protect the stunning woman and her son. Sean may be tough enough to storm burning buildings…but is he brave enough to risk building a family of his own?
I enjoyed this book a lot especially since I had no idea what to expect! I really like the characters and the things that they have to overcome in order to grow. As you finish one book, it really makes you want to start the next one right away so that you can find out what happens next. I am hooked with the start of the first story learning the boys were all separated when they were kids after their parents abandoned them and they were all put into different foster homes. My heart went out to them immediately because no one told them where their brothers were and they all grew up alone!!
There are two "books" in one so it is 500 pages in one paperback book. There are five brothers which as you can see comes up with a little counting issue if two brothers are in each book. Instead of the second book being too huge to read, there is a electronic book for the Fifth Brother and third book. Luckily, the library has them all so I just need to get the Kindle reader loaded back on to one of the iPads so that I don't have to read the end of the story on my computer. This is the first of the story and I know that you will enjoy it as much as I did!! I hope that you check it out at your local library and bookstore for yourself.
Abandoned by his parents and separated from his brothers, Ryan Devaney doesn't believe in love. Until Maggie O'Brien storms into his Irish pub and her bright smile and tender touch have him reconsidering. The beautiful redhead warms his frozen spirit and awakens forgotten dreams—like the desire to search for his long-lost brothers. Will he dare to believe there's a place for them in happily-ever-after?
Sean's Reckoning
Son of a shattered family, fireman Sean Devaney knows love never lasts, so he refuses to chance it. Then he meets single mom Deanna Blackwell, who has just lost everything in a devastating fire. Despite the warning in Sean's head, he's drawn to protect the stunning woman and her son. Sean may be tough enough to storm burning buildings…but is he brave enough to risk building a family of his own?
I enjoyed this book a lot especially since I had no idea what to expect! I really like the characters and the things that they have to overcome in order to grow. As you finish one book, it really makes you want to start the next one right away so that you can find out what happens next. I am hooked with the start of the first story learning the boys were all separated when they were kids after their parents abandoned them and they were all put into different foster homes. My heart went out to them immediately because no one told them where their brothers were and they all grew up alone!!
There are two "books" in one so it is 500 pages in one paperback book. There are five brothers which as you can see comes up with a little counting issue if two brothers are in each book. Instead of the second book being too huge to read, there is a electronic book for the Fifth Brother and third book. Luckily, the library has them all so I just need to get the Kindle reader loaded back on to one of the iPads so that I don't have to read the end of the story on my computer. This is the first of the story and I know that you will enjoy it as much as I did!! I hope that you check it out at your local library and bookstore for yourself.
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Together for Christmas Book Review
I was totally out of library books to read so I looked on the computer to find something to start reading that was actually at the library so I could get it quickly! I found Together for Christmas: 5-B Poppy Lane\When We Touch\Welcome to Icicle Falls\Starstruck (A Cedar Cove Novel) by Debbie Macomber, Brenda Novak, Shelia Roberts, and RaeAnne Thayne. I was excited to check out this Christmas story novella with four short stories.
This Christmas, visit four of your favorite towns, created by four of your favorite authors! Listen to some of the stories people tell at Christmas…
5-B Poppy Lane by Debbie Macomber
In Cedar Cove, Washington, you'll meet Helen Shelton, her granddaughter Ruth and Ruth's husband, Paul. You'll find out how Ruth and Paul met—and you'll learn about Helen's breathtaking adventures during the Second World War.
When We Touch by Brenda Novak
Whiskey Creek, California, the site of a Victorian Days Christmas celebration, is where you'll find out how Noelle stole Olivia's fiancé, Kyle, and what happened next! But is there any chance the sisters can reconcile, especially at Christmas, the time of forgiveness and peace?
Welcome to Icicle Falls by Sheila Roberts
Come to Icicle Falls, Washington, for a Christmas cookie exchange at Muriel Sterling's house. Hear about the summer Muriel fell in love with a handsome stranger. Her dad expected her to take over Sweet Dreams, the family's chocolate company, but Muriel had sweet dreams of her own…
Starstruck by RaeAnne Thayne
And in Cold Creek, Idaho, visit with former Hollywood stuntman Justin Hartford, his daughter, Ruby, and wife, Ashley. Ruby and her friends love the story of how her dad and her new mom met!
I reserved this book at the library and then went in to return some other books and found it on the new release shelf so I scooped it up. I had already read the first story in the book but it didn't stop me from reading it again. It is hard for me because even with a full length book, I am still looking for a little more of the story so short stories are even harder because they are over to fast. All great stories that really have you wanting to read all of these authors with these great characters and towns. I am going to start looking into the only author in this book that I haven't read yet (which was Brenda Novak). I loved each one better then the last one which is always the case when I am reading so I can't even choose my favorite one. I hope that you check out this book at your local library or bookstore and you will get a nice introduction to all of these great authors. Let me know if you enjoy this one and if you have a favorite story!!
This Christmas, visit four of your favorite towns, created by four of your favorite authors! Listen to some of the stories people tell at Christmas…
5-B Poppy Lane by Debbie Macomber
In Cedar Cove, Washington, you'll meet Helen Shelton, her granddaughter Ruth and Ruth's husband, Paul. You'll find out how Ruth and Paul met—and you'll learn about Helen's breathtaking adventures during the Second World War.
When We Touch by Brenda Novak
Whiskey Creek, California, the site of a Victorian Days Christmas celebration, is where you'll find out how Noelle stole Olivia's fiancé, Kyle, and what happened next! But is there any chance the sisters can reconcile, especially at Christmas, the time of forgiveness and peace?
Welcome to Icicle Falls by Sheila Roberts
Come to Icicle Falls, Washington, for a Christmas cookie exchange at Muriel Sterling's house. Hear about the summer Muriel fell in love with a handsome stranger. Her dad expected her to take over Sweet Dreams, the family's chocolate company, but Muriel had sweet dreams of her own…
Starstruck by RaeAnne Thayne
And in Cold Creek, Idaho, visit with former Hollywood stuntman Justin Hartford, his daughter, Ruby, and wife, Ashley. Ruby and her friends love the story of how her dad and her new mom met!
I reserved this book at the library and then went in to return some other books and found it on the new release shelf so I scooped it up. I had already read the first story in the book but it didn't stop me from reading it again. It is hard for me because even with a full length book, I am still looking for a little more of the story so short stories are even harder because they are over to fast. All great stories that really have you wanting to read all of these authors with these great characters and towns. I am going to start looking into the only author in this book that I haven't read yet (which was Brenda Novak). I loved each one better then the last one which is always the case when I am reading so I can't even choose my favorite one. I hope that you check out this book at your local library or bookstore and you will get a nice introduction to all of these great authors. Let me know if you enjoy this one and if you have a favorite story!!
Monday, October 12, 2015
Menu Plan Monday 10/12
Monday- Buffalo Chicken Salad with crumbled blue cheese
Tuesday- Penne Pasta with garlic bread or leftover pizza bites
Wednesday- Worchestershire Grilled Chicken with white rice
Thursday-Tacos with corn bread and saffron rice
Friday- Chicken fries and Popcorn Chicken with homemade fries
Saturday- Leftovers
Sunday- Breakfast for Dinner
I can't believe that I posted last weeks and this weeks meal plan at the same time but it obviously messed with my brain. I might have jumped the gun a little because when it was time to make dinner last Monday, I thought it was time for tacos so I quickly grabbed the meat out of the freezer even though I knew that I wouldn't have it defrosted by the time that I got home. I was still thinking it was that week so I looked and picked out Thursday's dinner to make Monday figuring that I would just rearrange the week and later in the week I realized that I jumped a week and totally missed the meal plan for last week!! That said last week we did Salsa Sloppy joes and Mac and Cheese on Monday, Penne with pizza bites on Tuesday, Leftovers on Wednesday, Tacos on Thursday, Chicken fingers and homemade fries on Friday.
With some quick cutting and pasting, I had to reorganize this week into a new meal plan of what was left and what we were going to have. We ate tacos just a few days before so I moved it to later in the week because we love them and we have tons of shells from my stock up sale. Since I ate the salsa sloppy joe that was frozen, I don't have anymore made, I moved tacos to that day (using the last of the frozen meat). We didn't eat the chicken last week so I moved that one to this week (giving us enough chicken to make it through the month).
I have worked through most of the month and I am super happy that we have made it to the halfway point and got most of the meals out of what we had in the house...minus my mom's wonderful addition to the house with the groceries that she bought. We have lots of things in the pantry but not a lot in the fridge so I am hoping to stock up this month with my monthly budget and add a few meals to the end of the month. I hope that you have a tasty week too!!!
Saturday, October 10, 2015
HT Shopping After A Long Day at the Festival
I remembered after spending the entire day at the local Festival that I needed to get to the store to get the Saturday only deals that they were having for free chocolate bars (some expensive brand that I have never tried before) which would be perfect for making this chocolate pie that I love for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Sadly, they were out of them but I got a rain check for my card and my husband's (cause I brought the whole family to the store with me). My son was tired and my husband hates grocery shopping so it was a long day.
I grabbed the big boxes of General Mills cereal for $1.97 (limit 4) which is a great price on those boxes because they are 16-18 oz. I got to use two $1/2 coupons and one electronic $1/2 coupon so the total price was $1.22 per box. I like to get boxes of cereal for $0.25 to $0.50 but we are out and have been for awhile so I am glad to grab a bunch and I get $1 back from saving star and $0.20 from Ibotta!
I also grabbed a box of Lucky Charms which were $2.50. I used a $0.50 coupon which doubled to $1 off and there was an electronic coupon for $0.50 so the box was $1 and I get $0.50 saving star rebate!
I got two packages of Grands Biscuits to make doughnuts which we on sale for $1.50 each. I used a $1/2 coupon and there was a $1/2 electronic coupon to make it $0.50 a package (sadly the cost of one doughnut at the store so we will enjoy 8 homemade ones). To make it even better, I will get $1 back for saving star rebate!!
I grabbed the Uploaded Walking Tacos Chili which are shelf price of $2.99. Talk about seriously over priced item. There were clearance meat stickers on them but there was still 8 more days before expiration so there were $1.50 off each. I used a $1.25/2 coupon so I got them for $0.86 each. We ate them for dinner when we got home.
I got half sticks of butter for $2.47 (limit 2) less $0.50 coupon which doubled so $1.47 per box and bonus $0.20 rebate from Ibotta. I also got Cobblestone English Muffins for $1.50 each less $0.55 coupon doubled so they were $0.40 with a bonus $0.75 Ibotta rebate!!!
I got the Heinz (32 oz) ketchup for $2.50 and two boxes of Kleenex (120 ct) for $0.97 each. Just sale prices and no coupons but we were out of both :( I found out when I got home that there is an Ibotta rebate for $0.20 on the ketchup so bonus there that I wasn't expecting!
I got the two Crock Pot Chili Seasoning and Mueller Large Shells for free!!
I also grabbed these which are shelf price at $7.99. Do tell why paper towels need to be that expensive?! They were on sale for half price at $3.99. I had a coupon for $0.50 which doubled so I got them for $2.99 for 6 rolls. I hate paper towels but we do still use about one roll a month so this should last us awhile. I didn't realize that I didn't get it in the first picture so I took it later :)
My husband went through the checkout on his card and bought four boxes of cereal which were $5.08 with taxes so it still worked out to $1.22 per box but no more saving star rebates.
I used a $3 coupon off $15 purchase on my check out which was the last day of that coupon so I have another coupon for next week still. Other than being exhausted and sunburned, this was a great shopping trip. Don't you think??
I grabbed the big boxes of General Mills cereal for $1.97 (limit 4) which is a great price on those boxes because they are 16-18 oz. I got to use two $1/2 coupons and one electronic $1/2 coupon so the total price was $1.22 per box. I like to get boxes of cereal for $0.25 to $0.50 but we are out and have been for awhile so I am glad to grab a bunch and I get $1 back from saving star and $0.20 from Ibotta!
I also grabbed a box of Lucky Charms which were $2.50. I used a $0.50 coupon which doubled to $1 off and there was an electronic coupon for $0.50 so the box was $1 and I get $0.50 saving star rebate!
I got two packages of Grands Biscuits to make doughnuts which we on sale for $1.50 each. I used a $1/2 coupon and there was a $1/2 electronic coupon to make it $0.50 a package (sadly the cost of one doughnut at the store so we will enjoy 8 homemade ones). To make it even better, I will get $1 back for saving star rebate!!
I grabbed the Uploaded Walking Tacos Chili which are shelf price of $2.99. Talk about seriously over priced item. There were clearance meat stickers on them but there was still 8 more days before expiration so there were $1.50 off each. I used a $1.25/2 coupon so I got them for $0.86 each. We ate them for dinner when we got home.
I got half sticks of butter for $2.47 (limit 2) less $0.50 coupon which doubled so $1.47 per box and bonus $0.20 rebate from Ibotta. I also got Cobblestone English Muffins for $1.50 each less $0.55 coupon doubled so they were $0.40 with a bonus $0.75 Ibotta rebate!!!
I got the Heinz (32 oz) ketchup for $2.50 and two boxes of Kleenex (120 ct) for $0.97 each. Just sale prices and no coupons but we were out of both :( I found out when I got home that there is an Ibotta rebate for $0.20 on the ketchup so bonus there that I wasn't expecting!
I got the two Crock Pot Chili Seasoning and Mueller Large Shells for free!!
I also grabbed these which are shelf price at $7.99. Do tell why paper towels need to be that expensive?! They were on sale for half price at $3.99. I had a coupon for $0.50 which doubled so I got them for $2.99 for 6 rolls. I hate paper towels but we do still use about one roll a month so this should last us awhile. I didn't realize that I didn't get it in the first picture so I took it later :)
My husband went through the checkout on his card and bought four boxes of cereal which were $5.08 with taxes so it still worked out to $1.22 per box but no more saving star rebates.
I used a $3 coupon off $15 purchase on my check out which was the last day of that coupon so I have another coupon for next week still. Other than being exhausted and sunburned, this was a great shopping trip. Don't you think??
Total Retail $85.72
Total Savings $50.10 + 12.80= $62.90
Total OOP $17.74 + $5.08= $22.82
Total Saving Star Rebate $2.50
($1.00 Honey Nut Cheerios, $0.50 Lucky Charms, $1.00 Grands Biscuits)
Total Ibotta Rebate $1.35
($0.75 Cobblestone English Muffin, $0.20 Cereal, $0.20 Ketchup, $0.20 Butter)
There was a bonus on Ibotta which I thought that I was going to get for $2 or $3 for redeeming over 3 rebates but they had to be over $0.25 and three of mine were only $0.20. Big Bummer!!!! I got $3.85 rebates off the great total already accomplished.
Friday, October 9, 2015
September Reading Review
I was ready to read again this month list after the biggest reading month of the whole year last month. There was no time to read this month with everything going on with back to school and back to work. I was a little bummed to call an end to summer and a start to the fall. I did a bunch of reading but most of it was instead of sleeping (oops). I am hoping that once we get settled back into a schedule, I will actually figure out how to get everything fit into a day again.
Merry Ex-Mas
by Shelia Roberts
What She Wants
by Shelia Roberts
by Debbie Macomber
Return to Promise, Texas
by Debbie Macomber
The Cottage on Juniper Ridge
by Shelia Roberts
The Tea Shop on Lavender Lane
by Shelia Roberts
Sheet Pan Suppers
By Molly Gilbert
A Wedding on Primrose Street
by Shelia Roberts
Total Books Read 2015
by Debbie Macomber
by Cindy Woodsmall
by Lucy Leid
by Shelia Roberts
Merry Ex-Mas
by Shelia Roberts
What She Wants
by Shelia Roberts
by Michael Symon
Promise, Texasby Debbie Macomber
Return to Promise, Texas
by Debbie Macomber
The Cottage on Juniper Ridge
by Shelia Roberts
The Tea Shop on Lavender Lane
by Shelia Roberts
Sheet Pan Suppers
By Molly Gilbert
A Wedding on Primrose Street
by Shelia Roberts
Total Books Read 2015
January 9
February 13
March 14
April 9
May 12
June 17
July 17
August 18
September 15
July 17
August 18
September 15
Total Books 124
Currently Reading:
Together for Christmas
by Shelia Roberts, RaeAnne Thayne,
Debbie Macomber, and Brenda Novak
Currently Reading:
Together for Christmas
by Shelia Roberts, RaeAnne Thayne,
Debbie Macomber, and Brenda Novak