Mason-Dixon Magnolia

3 Luv Bugs

2012-01-17T14:26:00.001-05:00

Giving Challenge ~ Samaritan's Purse Gift Catalog

2010-12-02T06:00:00.001-05:00

Have you ever thought of giving a goat as a Christmas gift? How about some baby chicks or a mosquito net? With the Samaritan's Purse Gift Catalog you can! Send your selection from an array of life-changing, and in some cases life-saving, gifts to an individual in great need in another part of the world. I've worked with Samaritan's Purse on a volunteer basis many times, and I can personally vouch for their effective and important work. I've also always been impressed with the amount of their budget that actually goes to minsitry. In 2009, 89% of their resources wen't directly to the work to which they are committed. Check out their interactive Gift Catalog HERE.

Giving Challenge ~ Bargain Hunting

2010-12-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Are you a bargain hunter like I am? If so, spend a few extra minutes helping a friend find that "special" Christmas discount at the best price possible. What better way to give than to help someone else hold onto a little more of their hard-earned income?

Dr. Seuss Cakes

2010-11-30T19:21:00.007-05:00

I haven't posted one of my cakes in ages. And, even though it has been a while since I made these, I thought I would post them for fun. I made these for my BFF's birthday. She LOVES Dr. Seuss.

So, with out further adieu...
Sam I Am

AND

Horton Hears a Who

Giving Challenge ~ Send a Stocking to a College Student

2010-11-30T10:12:00.004-05:00

Do you have any college students in your life? I do! I'm going to take a few minutes to put together a fun gift to send them for the holidays. Last year, before Christmas, I found cutie patootie stockings on clearance at Old Navy for $1. I've filled those with some of my freebies and a few small items from my gift closet. The cost for each one is less than $5 (not including shipping), and will make two very special young ladies that I've been privileged to mentor smile. What's more fun than getting a package when you're in college. Want another fun idea for a college student? Check THIS out!

Giving Challenge ~ Love Without Boundaries

2010-11-29T06:00:00.001-05:00

If you have read much of my blog, you know that we recently added a precious daughter to our family through adoption. Our baby girl is a joy and fits right into this crazy household. While waiting to meet our daughter, I became aware of an organization that was working to improve conditions in many orphanages in China, including the one that our daughter spent the first 17 months of her life in.

Love Without Boundaries provides medical help, including life-saving surgeries, more nutritious food, and much more to orphans throughout China. There is a way that you can help without spending one dime extra. Whenever you shop on Amazon, just start at the Love Without Boundaries website. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on "Amazon Associates". This link will take you straight to Amazon, and LWB will receive a percentage back from all of your purchases. I use Amazon for a lot of things from Christmas and Birthday gifts to groceries. This is a wonderful no-cost way to positively impact the lives of those who are helpless and fatherless.

Also, this year, jewelry designer Renee' Gibson has put together a beautiful bracelet for LWB. The proceeds from this bracelet will fund Love Without Boundaries' wonderful work. Find out more HERE.

Giving Challenge ~ Salvation Army

2010-11-28T16:57:00.002-05:00

You know those dedicated, slightly crazy people who stand outside this time of year with the little red buckets? I have been amazed at the nasty weather through which they will ring their bells to raise money for people in need. I have discovered that it takes a concerted effort on my part to be able to drop some change in those red buckets. See, I am a full participant in the digital age...meaning I never carry cash...ever. One day someone is going to try to mug me and be greatly disappointed. :) So, this time of year, I make the extra effort to have some change on hand so that I or my kiddos can contribute to the Salvation Army's work.

And here's a bonus thought for the day...the next time you see one of those kind-hearted folks ringing a bell in below-freezing temperatures...stop by with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and thank them for their sacrifice!

Giving Challenge ~ Toys for Tots

2010-11-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Toys for Tots is not a new organizations, by any means. But, it is one that has been so publicized that it could be easily overlooked or forgotten. Through the year, as I find good deals on standard toys, I pick them up and save them for holiday toy drives. I just received a note from my son's preschool that they will be a collection center for Toys for Tots this year.

As with so many charities, no one person can meet all of the need. But, if everyone helps in some small way, many lives can be touched.

Toys for Tots donations can be dropped off at Toys'R Us and Babies'R Us stores nationwide. Or, find a donation center in your area.

Giving Challenge ~ Extra Groceries

2010-11-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

I know many of us are stockpilers. And, I know that many of us take the opportunity this time of year to share from our stockpiles with worthy organizations. Even as a stockpiler, I found the following to be a great and inexpensive way to give.

Recently, while in one of the grocery stores that I frequent, I noticed a stack of boxes near the register that contained a good supply of dry goods, like rice and baking mix, all neatly packaged and ready to purchase for $4.99. The boxes that are purchased are collected by the store and then delivered to local food banks that are a part of Feeding America.

There were several things that I loved about this opportunity. First, the boxes were well-thought out and nicely packaged. The price point is reasonable and easily "paid for" with my savings from a couple of coupons. The food is going to people in my community. And, Feeding America is "the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charity".

I would encourage you to keep an eye out for these boxes in your own grocery stores. It really is a painless way to help someone in need.

Giving Challenge ~ Operation Christmas Child

2010-11-25T06:00:00.003-05:00

I have personally been involved with supporting Operation Christmas Child for over 13 years now. It is a ministry of Samaritan's Purse which is a Christian international relief organization founded by Franklin Graham. It has been my privilege to work in many areas of this ministry on a volunteer basis and I have always been impressed by the amazing heart of the OCC staff.

Each year, OCC collects shoe boxes filled with small gifts and then distributes them to children all over the world who are victims of poverty, war, and disease. Each child who receives a shoe box gift also receives a story book, in their own language, that shares the story of Jesus. Millions of shoe boxes have been delivered over the years, and countless families have come to know Jesus as a result of this ministry.

National Collection Week for OCC has already passed. But, this year they have an awesome new online "Build a Shoe Box" opportunity. It is easy to choose the gender and age of the child that you wish to send a shoe box to, then choose a few basic items to include in your box. OCC staff will assemble a shoe box to your specifications (with extra items beyond the few that you choose), including if you wish, a note and photo that you you have uploaded to personalize your box. You will also be notified via email when and where your shoe box is delivered.

The cost to send a shoe box online is $35. I usually spend about $20 packing a shoe box myself, and then add $7 to help cover delivery to the child. So, for only $8 more, this is a great opportunity to send a box if you didn't have time to pack one before the collection date passed.

Operation Christmas Child is a worthy organization with the most important task in the world, sharing the message of Christ. Packing a shoe box is an inexpensive and tangible way to touch the life of a child you would never otherwise have the opportunity to meet.

Giving Challenge

2010-11-23T08:07:00.003-05:00

Last year I attempted to find some way to give, large or small, every day between Thanksgiving and Christmas. My intention was to, in a more intentional way, create a culture of giving within our family.

I still think this is a good idea, and I intend to do it again this year. The one thing that I want to avoid, though, is reserving this activity to the holiday season. I know that realistically I won't be able to find something new to do every day of the year. But, it takes 21 days of repetitive action to create a habit. If we keep giving at the forefront of our minds during the holidays, we should start the new year with a habit of giving.

I hope to post a new idea for giving every day between the Holidays, and then continue posting occassional ideas throught 2011. So, be looking for my first giving post on Thursday.

Great Deal On Printer Ink!

2010-11-16T06:44:00.005-05:00

I just had to share the amazing deal that I just got on ink! Through tomorrow, 11/17, you can receive 10% of remanufactured ink cartridges from 123inkjets.com. But, that's not all. This offer also includes free shipping. And, if you start out at *Ebates, you will receive 16% cash back on your purchase!

This is the order that I just placed:
3 ink cartridges @ $13.95 = $41.85
- 10% = $37.67 shipped
- $6.03 cash back = $31.64
That's only $10.55 per cartridge!

The same cartridge (not remanufactured) at Walmart is $14.97, plus I would have to pay tax, making them $15.87. I saved $15.97 (or $5.32 per cartridge!) by ordering from 123inkjets.

I have ordered from this company before and been very pleased with their speedy shipping and the quality of their product. I honestly can't tell a difference in the remanufactured cartridges.

Use code GIVETEN to receive your 10% off and free shipping...and don't forget about *Ebates">Ebates!

**Ebates is a cash back program for online orders. I have earned over $230 cash back on purchases through them. Yes it really works! They deposit my savings in my paypal account every few months. If you sign up through the link above, I will receive a $5 bonus to my account. You will receive a $5 bonus whether you use my link or not. If you prefer not to connect through me, simply visit www.ebates.com. If you ever make purchases online, you should be using a reputable cash back site.

When Life Gives You Lemons....

2010-08-22T21:25:00.006-04:00

Do you follow Pioneer Woman? If you don't you should. Her stories make me laugh out loud, and her recipes are to die for....okay, maybe not. But, they are definitely worth a serious illness.

A few months ago she posted a recipe for a drool-worthy pound cake that the Southern Girl in me just could not ignore. So, I decided to try it out...for the first time...when we had over 30 guests coming to our home...'cause I'm a little crazy like that.

It baked beautifully, and the scent was divine. Then, I tried to turn it out of the pan and got this:

My first course of action was to take a spoon and dig the warm cake out of the bottom of the pan. What?!? I had to see if it was worth saving! It was irrefutably the best pound cake that I'd ever made. So, I had to come up with a way to camouflage it's appearance.

I looked at recipes that included drizzling sauces and syrups on top. I tried slicing it and arranging it on a plate. We all know that didn't help at all. Then, I decided to fall back on a Southern Classic ~ The Trifle.

If you do a search for Trifle recipes, you will find a myriad of way to assemble one. The basics ingredients are
1) Some sort of cakey substance
2) Some sort of creamy substance
3) Some sort of fruity or chunky chocolate substance

Now, hear me please, run screaming from the ones that include fruit cocktail, 'kay?

I decided to make up my own and here is what I came up with, it disappeared at my party.

Berry Trifle
1 Pound Cake, cubed
4 Cups Fresh Berries, sliced if appropriate
4oz Cream Cheese, softened
1 Lg Vanilla Pudding
Sugar

Combine berries in bowl and sprinkle liberally with sugar. Let this sit on the kitchen counter, covered, for a couple of hours, stirring occasionally. Prepare pudding as box directs and then add cream cheese, whisking to combine.

In a large bowl or trifle dish (preferably a clear one), place half of the cubed pound cake. Add half of the sugared berries. Add all of the pudding mixture. Then finish with the rest of the pound cake followed by the rest of the berries. Cover and refrigerate for a couple of hours.

This is best eaten the same day that it is prepared, but leftover will keep for another day or so. I've since made it with a store bought lemon cake, which was also good, but not nearly as yummy as PW's Pound Cake.

Enjoy!

Who Says A SAHM Can't Get Vacation Pay? UPDATED WITH PHOTOS

2010-07-20T11:21:00.005-04:00

I have often said that couponing is my job. I give the same degree of attention and organization to couponing that I would give to a job out in the "real world". Earning approximately $600 a month for my family definitely makes it worth the effort!

I just returned from an extended absence that included a mission trip, family vacation, and staying in my parent's home while they were out of the country (to be near my grandparents in case they had a need.) I was gone for 4 weeks. The weeks of couponing and deal-seeking that I had done prior to leaving continued to pay off while I was gone! This is what came in the mail while I was away....

And here is the list of what is included: (All of this was totally free!)

~Rebate Checks:
Totalling $25 (and an email confirming another $25 is on the way.)

~Gift Cards:
$15 Coldwater Creek
$10 DSW

~Magazines:
Thriving Family
American Baby
Family Circle
Good Housekeeping
Vogue

~Full-Sized Products:
Davinci Tortellini
Scrubbing Bubble Toilet Cleaning Gel
Glad Scented Oil Candle
Pledge Furniture Wipes
Ziploc Smart Snap Bowls
Ziploc Big Bags (3 Gallon, 10 Gallon, 20 Gallon)
Ziploc Quart Storage Bags (25ct)
Ziploc Gallon Freezer Bags (15ct)
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Shaker

~Samples:
Ritz Crackerfuls
All Detergent
Parent's Choice Formula
Eucerin Lotion
2 Yogi Teas
Dove Daily Moisture
Stayfree Pad
2 Glidden Paint Testers
Caress Body Wash
Olay Body Wash
Propel Drink Mix
Zantac
2 Kraft Sandwich Shop Mayo
2 Starbucks Via
Philosophy Perfume
3 Crystal Lite Drink Mix
3 Pampers Cruisers

~Free Product Coupons:
Beech-Nut Baby Cereal
2 Jars Beech-Nut Baby Food

~Coupons:
2 $30 Home Made Simple Coupon Books
28 Assorted High-Value Product Coupons (Will use @ 75% of these.)
3 High-Value Store Coupons
Coupons to 3 of our Favorite Resaurants

I won't take the time to calculate the value of all of this, but it is over $200, I am sure....while I was away from home!

Stockpiling Perishable Foods

2010-05-26T12:29:00.004-04:00

As I travel further on my couponing/stockpiling adventure, I am learning new tricks along the way. It really bugs me that there are certain items that cannot be stockpiled because they will spoil. This means that I can choose to either do without these items or pay full price for them. EEEK!

I have discovered that quite a few perishable items can be frozen successfully, without negatively affecting their quality or taste.

For example, liquid coffee creamer was once a true luxury item for me. I would not pay $2.69 for a bottle of creamer when I had a gallon of milk that I could make do with. After discovering that there is a sale cycle every 8-12 weeks on Coffee Mate and International Delight, I decided to try freezing it. Now I pay between .25 and .90 for creamer once a quarter and stockpile 15-20 bottles a time in my freezer. It freezes beautifully!

Here is a list of items that I freeze regularly:
~Coffee Creamer
~Lunch Meat
~Squeeze Yogurt (Like Gogurt)
~Cheese (I recommend grating it first, if you thaw a block and grate, it tends to be very crumbly.)
~Bread (Just thaw the loaf on the counter, open.)
~Nuts (Walnuts, Pecans, Almonds. They stay fresh longer)
~Extra Flour (Sure to be bug-free.)
~Butter (Not sure about margarine.)

If you have any other ideas...let me know!

An Update to Our Adoption Blog

2010-05-10T09:19:00.003-04:00

More of my blogging focus over the next few months will be at our adoption blog, Journey to China. So much is happening, and I know I won't be able to be faithful to both. Recording our adoption journey is so very important because one day it will be a piece to the puzzle of Grace's life journey. It is her history, and I want to record it well.

So, join me next door. I promise to say hello from this venue from time to time as well :)

A Few of My Favorite Things ~ Companies that Do Not Leave Adoptive Families Out of the Fun!

2010-05-08T07:38:00.003-04:00

This week while I was perusing the blogs, I came across a reminder for all of the fun stuff you get when you are pregnant. You know, cans of formula and coupons sent to your door by companies who hope that they can entice you to use their brand for that huge investment. Or, samples of the latest and greatest diapers along with high-value coupons. And, the pinnacle, the diaper bag full of goodies from the hospital.

I don't know, maybe I'm a little weird...but you KNOW how much I LOVE a freebie! Why pay for it when someone out there is willing to give it to you for free...right?

Well, it got me to thinking (like that grammar, don't ya?), "I won't be going to the hospital for our newest bundle of joy...I'll be taking and umpteen hour plane ride. I wonder if these companies have offers for adoptive families as well?" So, I started hitting websites for all of the diaper, formula, and baby food companies that I could think of. I sent emails all over the place posing my question.

On Wednesday I spoke with a nice lady from Nestle/Gerber (who have merged, I guess?) She asked me a few questions about Grace, and then informed me that she had no distribution system in place for the same package given at the hospital. But, she would like to send a different gift to me. Sure! I told her that I would love that.

Yesterday (2 days later!), my nice UPS guy delivered the gift. Inside I found a much nicer diaper bag than I received at the hospital with either of my boys. (This is probably the one I will take to China.) There were also some promotional materials, AND a coupon for a FREE can of formula...of my choice. This includes Soy, which we expect to be using with Grace. WOW! I am very impressed by Gerber's response to my query. And, you can bet that I will remember that when I am shopping for Grace's needs in the future.

If you know anyone who is adopting a young child, be sure to let them know what is available for them!

You know my mantra...There is stuff all around us that is "free for the asking".

God Has Given Us A Daughter!

2010-05-05T17:36:00.002-04:00

Those of you who hang around here much know that my family has been on an adoption journey for the past year. If you are interested in the story, you can find it at the blog link in the right sidebar. I told you a few days ago that we had some big stuff going on that would take me away from the blog for a time. Well, this is it! We've been matched!

I finally have the privilege of introducing the newest member of the Rainey family to you. Her name is Abigail Grace. Her Chinese name is RuoYun Liang.

Our adoption agency recently had the extraordinary opportunity to access a database of children that they do not often have access to. This has allowed them to match us many months before we really expected it to happen. We received her photos and information about a week and a half ago, but have been waiting for a certain pre-approval from the CCAA before we were allowed to share her information online.

Our beautiful baby girl just had her first birthday on Sunday. It makes me sad to have missed this milestone. But, I know that we will share many more with her!

These are the things that we know:

~Her Chinese name, RuoYun, means "like a cloud", the surname, Liang, identifies her as a resident of her particular orphanage.

~She was abandoned at approximately 4 days old at the gate of the orphanage where she resides.

~There is much poverty in her province.

~Her province has the highest rate of both birth defects and infant mortality in China.

~She is with people who truly care for the children in their charge. I have been in contact with families who have been there, know the director, and attest to the children receiving the best care possible in their given situation.

~She has a unilateral cleft palate and lip which will require one or more surgeries and speech therapy once we get her home.

~She is a quiet child.

~She likes to play with blocks.

~She loves music.

There are many children in her orphanage with mild to severe special needs. The population of the orphanage increased significantly last year. Many of these little ones have very little hope for adoption. The fact that such kind care is given to so many with special needs is a tribute to the Nannies and Orphanage Director. It is a comfort to know that she is with people who love her.

The orphanage was damaged by an earthquake in 2008. Caring people there have been working since then to raise the funds to rebuild so that they can be in a safer structure. This building is being erected now, and they hope to move the children around August.

So here's the BIG question...When do we go and get her?
We don't know for sure. We are waiting for a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the CCAA. When we get this, it will include an invitation to travel. The trip will be planned at that point, based upon the appointment that we are given at the US Consulate in Guangzhou. I will share more about the details of the trip when the time draws nearer. We expect (hope) to travel within 4-6 months.

We are so excited, so thankful, and so very blessed to have the privilege of parenting this sweet girl, and her big brothers Sam and Seth.

Where in the World is MDM?

2010-05-02T12:47:00.003-04:00

I know that my posting recently has been sporadic at best.

Just so you know...it really bugs me...a lot. But, my family received some life-changing information a few days ago. It's good stuff...really good. Unfortunately I cannot share the details with you just yet. Trust me, when I can, I will!

I just wanted you to know that I haven't forgotten about you. I will continue to post when I can. This blog is important to me.

There are other things afoot right now that must and should divert my attention. As much as I love sharing the freebie post with you each week, it is the most time-consuming post that I put together. I have to put it on hold for now. I want to direct you to For the Mommas and Freebies 4 Mom. They will keep you up to speed as the freebies become available.

I cannot wait to share my news with you...really! Hopefully that time will come within the next few days.

All My Love,
MDM

Deals and Steals ~ FREE Movies Thru Summer!

2010-04-26T10:57:00.003-04:00

I am very excited to announce that Regal Cinemas will once again be offering FREE movies this year, and that they are doing it two days a week (Tuesday & Wednesday)which should cut down on the crowds a bit.

If you are in my neck of the woods, Westview in Frederick is participating, as well as the Regal theatre in Westminster. The first showing at both will be on June 15th at 10:00 AM, Planet 51 and The Rugrats Movie. Go HERE to find participating theatres close to you. You can also browse the movie schedule and dates.

Yay for free summer entertainment!!!

Bridal Shower Cake

2010-04-24T06:10:00.004-04:00

A couple of days ago I showed you the royal icing flowers that I was making for this cake. Now it is finished and delivered, and I thought I would show you the finished product. I haven't done basketweave on a cake this large before, and I thought it would be unique. My only instructions were that it should feed 30 people, and be very pink and girlie. I'm pleased with how it turned out.

Running Totals/Fit Mommy Friday~First 5K of the Season Tomorrow!

2010-04-23T10:38:00.004-04:00

I have finally been able to get in a full-week of training this week, for THIS RACE...woohoo! The past few weeks have been so sporadic that I didn't even want to post the numbers. Even though runs have been hit or miss, I have been able to continue lengthening my long runs each week.

Sunday-Off
Monday-47 minutes (approx. 4.2 miles)
Tuesday-40 minutes (approx. 3.5 miles)
Wednesday-45 minutes (approx 4 miles)
Thursday-30 minutes (approx 2.5 miles) plus 4 sets of strides
Friday-Off
Tomorrow-Running 5K for local pregnancy center

After tomorrow's 5K, I will have logged around 17.5 miles this week. I am extremely pleased with this. I also have a new pair of Asics on the way, which my knees are telling me that I need desperately.

I've changed my diet as well. While training, I am cutting out almost all wheat products, limiting dairy, increasing my soy intake and focusing on fruit, vegetables, lean meats and rice versus pasta. My body operates better on this type of diet, a lesson I learned from "Eating Right 4 Your Blood Type" which has proven to be very accurate for me. In the future I will share more about my findings from this intriguing book.

Oh...and I am drinking water like a fish. I have a minimum of 64oz. daily, usually more.

Now, if I can just find the motivation to get up at 6 in the morning to run a 5K in the not-so-warm rain....

I am connecting this post to Fit Mommy Friday at Got Chai?

Royal Flowers

2010-04-21T07:54:00.004-04:00

Recently I shared with you how happy I am that I took a couple of Wilton Cake decorating classes a few years ago. I spent yesterday morning making 90 royal icing flowers. My pastor's son is getting married, and his mom asked me to make the cake for the bridal shower.

These flowers are the primary subject matter for Wilton's level 2 course. Royal icing hardens when it dries, and can be kept for a very long time at room temperature, literally months. I enjoy making flowers, and occasionally spend a day at it just to have some in reserve. When I have these on hand ready to go, I can decorate a cake in no time. One of my instructors said that a collection of flowers in your pantry is like money in the bank, and I agree. They are edible, crunchy like candy (but better than the hard icing decorations that you find in the grocery store). And, royal icing is a breeze to clean up. Since there is no fat in it, it literally melts away in hot water.

I will be finishing the cake on Friday, and I will share the final product with you then.

Deals and Steals ~ Free Shipping and Free Gift from Perfumania

2010-04-20T09:25:00.003-04:00

Perfumania has clearance items starting at $2.49. Plus, if you order today, you will receive free shipping AND a 1 oz. Ocean Pacific cologne for the guy in your life.

I just picked up a tube of Big Sexy Lips lip color, plus the OP cologne for $2.49, shipped. Not a bad deal. The cologne will make a nice stocking stuffer for someone who will remain nameless ;)

Go HERE to see their clearance items in order from least to most expensive. You might even find a Mother's Day gift for a great price! No code is required.

Thanks Hip to Save!

Free for the Asking ~ 9+ Available Freebies

2010-04-16T15:01:00.014-04:00

I am beginning to get back into the swing of things. After several illnesses running amuck in my household, and some great visits from the grandparents we are returning to a normal routine around here. My mailbox freebies include last week's selection, as well as this week's. But, the shopping trips are all from the last couple of days. All but a couple of things were purchased today. And, I'm not with it enough yet to have all of my receipts together, but here are the totals from today's trip.

As always, I will begin the post with my personal freebies for the week, along with links or explanations of anything still available. (If you have already requested the samples in my "mailbox" section, you probably won't be able to request them again, unless I indicate that it has "reset".) Then I will give you the links to my favorite new online freebies of the week.

Free stuff is all around us...all you have to do is ask!

Weekly Totals
Spent $31.52
Saved $97.83, 76%
Coupons 25
Rebates 0
Net Cost $31.52

Grocery Game:

~7 Boxes Pebbles Cereal (Safeway)

~4 Boxes Quaker Oatmeal (Safeway)

~1 Vitamin Water (FB promo, NLA)

*See the current Safeway breakfast deal HERE. Note, that Pebbles cereal is on sale, plus you get $5 off at checkout when purchasing 5. Plus, there are manufacturer coupons out. Plus, you get a $4 catalina at checkout for your next purchase. All of these factors, plus a catalina I had from last week, made the cereal and the oatmeal free for me. You can get them for .30-.50 each if you don't have a catalina to spend.

Drugstore Game:

~4 12-Packs Schick Razors (Free at Walmart with $2 coupon from SS 4/11 insert)

~4 Benadryl Anti-Itch Sticks (Free at Walmart with $5/2 coupon from RP 4/11 insert)

~3 Boxes Puffs (CVS with ECB)

~1 Roll CVS TP(CVS, $1 off any CVS paper product printing at kiosk)

~12-Pack Bounty (CVS with ECB)

~16-Pack Charmin (CVS with ECB)

Mailbox Freebies:

~Arm & Hammer Shaker (Online promo, NLA)

~Aveeno Lotion (Online promo, NLA)

~Cascade Coupon (no idea why they sent this)

~Proctor & Gamble $100 Coupon Book (Part of the P&G, NLA)

~Home Made Simple Coupon Book (NLA)

~Benefiber Orange Stick & Coupon (Available HERE)

~5 Gum (FB Promo, NLA)

~Stride Gum (FB Promo, NLA)

~Ritz Munchables (FB Promo, NLA)

~Free Sunchips Coupon (FB Promo, NLA)

~Free Oreos Coupon (FB Promo, NLA)

~Bottle Opener (Gift from Neilsen Research Membership)

~Lipton Green Tea Sample (NLA)

~Lever 2000 Sample (NLA)

~U by Kotex Samples & Coupon (Available HERE)

~ Nature Made Flexibility Supplement (Online promo, NLA)

New Online Goodies:

~Walmart has a sample of Carefree Liners HERE. These usually come with coupons!

~Get your sample of Stayfree pads HERE.

~SeaPak has a recipe book for you HERE that contains coupons.

~P&G Brandsaver has several samples available including Cascade Action Packs HERE.

~Get another sample of Dove Haircare HERE.

~Kraft is giving away coupons via snail mail for their new Cheesy Explosion pasta, as a facebook promotion. Request yours HERE.

Wordless Wednesday ~ A Big Weekend for My Boy

2010-04-14T07:18:00.006-04:00

He Hit Double-Digits

He Was the Only 4th Grader to Participate in the Maryland State Geography Bee.

What a Great Kid.

Free For the Asking (Abbreviated) ~ 7 Freebies!

2010-04-11T07:39:00.010-04:00

I have had a pretty crazy week. We have been enjoying visits from both sets of grandparents consecutively and my son's State Geography Bee on Friday. I know posts have been scarce this week. I promise to back at it full-force in just a few days.

I do want to give you a rundown of the online freebies that I have run across during my snippets of time at the computer. So, without further adieu...

~Yo Plus is offering a coupon for a FREE 4-pack of yougurt HERE. I have already received this and picked mine up at the store. Free yogurt...YAY!

~Aveeno is offering samples of shampoo and conditioner from their new Nourish line HERE.

~Espn is offering a free personalized poster HERE. Just upload your image into one of three designs and print out your poster. It can also be shared on your social networking sites.

~Get yourself a free sample of EAS Myoplex Nutrition Shakes HERE. You will instantly be allowed to print a coupon for this freebie. Keep in mind that some stores may not accept a printed freebie coupon. I have found that Food Lion and Weis still will.

~Get a free fragrance sample HERE from Jovan.

~Land 'O Lakes wants to let you try their spreadable butter with olive oil for free. Purchase a package of I Can't Believe It's Not Butter or Promise Buttery Spread and submit THIS REBATE FORM for a coupon for free Land 'O Lakes.

~Uncle Ben's is offering a choice of Ready Whole Grain Rice Medley Samples HERE.

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Parmesan Chicken

2010-04-07T07:35:00.003-04:00

I love, love, love this recipe. It is another that has been with me for many years. I often fix this for company or for a crowd. I hope your family loves it like mine does!

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Parmesan Chicken

4 Boneless/Skinless Chicken Breasts

1 Sleeve Ritz Crackers

1 Stick Butter

1/2 C. Grated Parmesan (the powdered version)

Preheat oven to 375°. Rinse & trim the chicken, cut into 3-4 tenders. Pat dry. Crush crackers and place in shallow dish add cheese and toss together. Melt butter in cereal bowl. Dip chicken in butter then roll in cracker mixture. Be sure to press some of this into the chicken so it is well covered. Place chicken on cookie sheet (greased) or baking stone. Sprinkle any leftover cracker mixture on top, covering any bare spots. Bake for 20-23 minutes (depending on the size of your tenders) until no longer pink.

I served this with THESE Tomatoes, Corn, and Pear Salad...Yum!

Geocaching Success!

2010-04-06T07:23:00.005-04:00

I told you last week about this new adventure that my family has decided to embark on. I also told you about the incredible deal that I found online for a second-hand GPS unit.

First I want to give you a little more info on the GPS. I ordered a retired rental unit from a company in Wisconsin, gpsrentals.biz. I spoke with the owner of the company over the phone and was very impressed when he offered me a 6-month guarantee on the operation of the unit. I ordered it on Tuesday afternoon. It was delivered Thursday afternoon, after travelling cross-country to get to me. Honestly the packaging had me a little concerned because it appeared worse for the wear. But, inside I found all of this.

The unit turned right on (batteries included), and is in fine working order. Honestly, the only thing that makes it noticeably used is the identification number that is written on the back of the unit.

I told you this was an incredible deal. Let me share just how incredible. You can see HERE that Amazon sells this unit new for $279.95, with a suggested retail of $321.49. I paid $75 plus $10 shipping. (!!!)

Gpsrentals.biz only has these units for sale occasionally. But, I did check this morning and they are still showing available units for sale. They also have automobile GPS units. I've not tried the rental option with this company, but with my experience in purchasing I feel very comfortable recommending them.

There is a bit of a learning curve on handheld GPS units. They do not operate like the automobile version at all. And frankly, the manual is about as clear as mud. But, I was able to muddle through it and figure out how to enter coordinates.

Yesterday, on our way to Harpers Ferry with my folks (who are visiting from South Carolina), we decided to try and locate our first cache. I chose this one carefully from the Geocaching website. I wanted to make sure it was one that we could find! So, I chose a location that we are somewhat familiar with in our small town. I also chose a chache that is larger in size.

Success! This cache was very easily found (with hints from the website and the GPS coordinates). We signed the log and traded trinkets, and my boys were hooked on treasure hunting. The top photo is my boys and I with our first find! (Yes, that's a do-rag...my hubby and I were riding the Harley.)

I plan to pick up a glass jar, like an apothecary jar, to house all of our trades. I think this is going to be a great memory-maker for our family.

On our way back from Harpers Ferry, we decided to pull into another area close to the first for another hunt. This one was in a parking lot for a local grocery store. I have discovered that you need to be a little comfortable with strange looks from others while you poke around in the shrubbery of a public place. But, if you coupon the way I do, you are no stranger to odd looks from others.

This cache was more stealthily hidden, and frankly I had given up. Then my dad decided to give it as shot. In about 2 minutes, he had located it. This one was a 35mm film canister, embedded in a fake rock. Yeah...wow! Obviously this one had no room for trinkets, but there was a log to sign. The photo below shows me, my oldest son, and my dad. I am holding the rock...that was in the shrubbery, under mulch.

Thankfully, the geocaching site has a rating system for the difficulty of the find, and the terrain where a cache is hidden. If you've ever considered trying Geocaching, I highly recommend it. Treasure hunting is fun. I did my happy dance when we found the first one ;)

Reflections ~ Then and Now

2010-04-04T05:00:00.001-04:00

I love Spring. It is absolutely my favorite time of year. I love the renewal, the "waking up" of the world around me, and how God has given us this wonderful illustration in nature of the new life that is available through Jesus. Since this is a weekend for remembering His ultimate sacrifice, I thought I would share the images that I have been cosidering over the last couple of days.

My Deck Exactly 52 Days Ago:

My Deck Today:

My Front Yard 52 Days Ago:

My Front Yard Today:

The differences are startling, aren't they? The change that takes place in the life of an individual who turns to Jesus is even more vast...and more beautiful. Grace is a glorious thing.

Happy Easter, My Friends!

Free for the Asking ~ 11+ Available Freebies

2010-04-03T08:02:00.012-04:00

I actually took a good part of the week off from shopping. I have had 3 cases of stomach virus, a case of double conjunctivitis and an ear infection going at my house. Somehow...I have dodged the bullet myself...for now. I still have some freebies to show off, but the majority of it came from my mailbox. The great part of having a stockpile is that you can scale back without the world coming to an end.

As always, I will begin the post with my personal freebies for the week, along with links or explanations of anything still available. (If you have already requested the samples in my "mailbox" section, you probably won't be able to request them again, unless I indicate that it has "reset".) Then I will give you the links to my favorite new online freebies of the week.

Free stuff is all around us...all you have to do is ask!

Weekly Totals
Spent $75.68
Saved $110.10, 59%
Coupons 42
Rebates 0
Net Cost $75.68

Grocery Game:

~4 Cans Chef Boyardee (Not Pictured)

~3 Scrubbing Bubbles

~2 Boxes Mueller's Pasta

~1 Trident Layers Gum

Drugstore Game:

~2 Boxes Peeps

~1 Oral-B Toothbrush

~Bonus Pack Children's Tylenol

Mailbox:

~Disney Classics DVD (Disney Movie Rewards Program)

~Wink Photo Strip (Check out how to get this HERE, I will be putting this in a stocking as a bookmark.)

~Bounce Sheets Sample (NLA)

~Coupon for Free Package Yo Plus (NLA)

~Bob Evans Birthday Club, Free Meal for my Son (Sign up HERE)

~Toys R Us Birthday Club, $3 Gift Card (Sign up HERE, fyi, we have never received the birthday call that is supposed to be a part of this.)

~Osaka Hibachi, Free Hibachi Meal (Woo Hoo!)

~Huggies 2-diaper Sample (NLA)

~Kellogs All-Bran Sample (NLA)

~Kashi Go-Lean Crunch Sample w/coupon (NLA, get a Kashi Bar Coupon HERE)

~The Limited, $15 off purchase $15 or more x2 (Become an Insider for these mailing HERE, tiny print at the top of the page.)

~Family Circle Magazine (NLA)

New Online Goodies:

~Walmart is offering another sample from Kotex, a part of their new U line. Snag it HERE.

~Walmart also has a sample of Dove Men+Care available HERE.

~Box Tops for Education has a sample of Avery Label Pads HERE. Yay for free office supplies!

~Try out a sample of Leather CPR for cleaning and conditioning leather, HERE.

~John Frieda is giving away two samples right now. Get Luxurious Volume Shampoo and Conditioner HERE and Frizz-Ease Shampoo and Conditioner HERE.

~Pick your sample from Elle and Emergenc-E HERE. This is a different link, if you have requested this one before.

Easter Treats

2010-04-02T05:00:00.000-04:00

I signed up to bring the sweet treat for my preschooler's Spring Party this week. After the last party (Valentine's ~ Remember the Conversation Heart Cupcakes?), one of the teachers mentioned that she had consumed 4 cupcakes that week. (They have multiple classes, each of which has it's own party.) She wasn't complaining at all, just stating the facts. As much as I love cupcakes, I have to think that gets old after a while. So, I decided to change things up a bit for this party.

Rice Krispy Treat Eggs

3 T. Butter
1 Bag Marshmallows
6 Cups Rice Krispies
1/2 Pkg. of White Almond Bark
Sprinkles

Make Rice Krispy Treat recipe by melting butter on low heat in a large pot. Add marshmallows and stir until melted. Dump in Rice Krispies and mix well. Then, with buttered hands and a small ice cream scoop, scoop out and form the mixture into an egg shape. Press it together so that it will hold it's shape. I put mine on a silpat to set up, but you can use waxed paper (either way, put it on a cookie sheet so that they can be transferred to the fridge later).

Wait about 30 minutes. Then, chop up the almond bark into small blocks. Place in a microwaveable bowl (avoid shallow bowls, you want to be able to dip the eggs easily) and cook at 30 second intervals, stirring after each. When it is completely melted, dip the bottom half of each egg in the candy coating and top with sprinkles. Dip only three or four at a time, to be sure that your sprinkles stick. Allow to cool, then pop them in the fridge for about 10 minutes to harden.

I then placed mine in an airtight container in the fridge. Be sure to enjoy them within 24 hours for the best quality.

I saw this idea somewhere this week...it could have been a commercial or a magazine, I just can't remember. But, I did find a version on a Kellog's site HERE. So, the idea was theirs. I just gave it my twist :)

By the way, this is the first time I've ever sculpted Rice Krispy Treats...a couple of them came out pretty wonky. Gotta HATE it when that happens. I have it on pretty good authority that these taste really good. ~wink~

Geocaching ~ A New Family Activity?

2010-04-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

I have been intrigued by the idea of geocaching for several years. Now that the boys are a little older, I think it may be time for us to give it a try.

What is Geocaching? Well sir, I have recently learned that it is classified as a sport. If you ask for a book on geocaching, you will be taken to the sports section, who knew? The basic idea is this...there are "caches" hidden all over the world, 1,020,027 of them to be exact. Using GPS coordinates found on geocaching.com, you travel to the general location of a cache, and poke around until you find it.

What is a cache? It is a small container that usually contains a visitor's log and small trinkets that have been left by others that have come before you. When you find it, you sign the log and exchange one of the trinkets inside for one that you brought along. The only rule is that the item you leave should be of equal or greater value. You may be walking or driving past one or more every day, without even knowing it!

After finding one, you log back on to the website and make a note of your find.

These things are hidden in the woods...hidden in the city...hidden all over!

As a matter of fact, I just entered my address into the geocaching.com search engine and found 184 caches within 10 miles of my home. Wow!

The one necessary tool of the trade is a handheld GPS. If you have an iPhone, there is an app that you can purchase for about $10, according to Christy over at Southern Plate who is also a geocacher. (You MUST go try some of her recipes!) Since we don't have an iPhone, I started researching handhelds and discovered that you can spend from $70 to several hundred. The typical starter unit is the Geomate, available HERE. My concern with this one is it's lack of maps. Instead it has an electronic compass.

Enter my BFF. Knowing of my hunt, she called to tell me that there is an article in this month's Family Circle that discusses geocaching. In this article they list several sites through which you can rent a unit for a few days, to see if you like it. As I perused one of these, gpsrentals.biz, I discovered that they have retired units for sale. The same model that is currently available to rent (retailing for several hundred dollars), for literally a fraction of the cost.

I really wondered if this was too good to be true. So, I checked out the company with the BBB. And, they are BBB accredited. I still had a few questions, so I called the number on their website. Whatdaya know, the owner of the company picked up the phone. I had a nice conversation with Mr. Skinner. He assured me that the unit would come with all of the pieces that it came with new, including the USB adapter and car charger. Then he knocked my socks off. He said, "I don't think I have this up on the website, but if you have equipment failure within the first 6 months, let me know and I will replace it for free." Get...Outta...Town!

I placed the order online yesterday afternoon, and received notice early this morning that it had already been shipped and should be here by Friday.

I plan to go treasure hunting one day next week. I really hope the family enjoys this as much as I think they will! I'll keep you posted!

*Geocache Container image courtesy of Geocaching News.

Wordless Wednesday ~ A Rite of Passage

2010-03-31T05:00:00.001-04:00

My 9-year old son just graduated to Men's shoes this week...I was shocked.

I think he's proud of himself.

*This post is linked to 5 Minutes for Mom.

Cheesy Brunch Bundles

2010-03-29T14:12:00.006-04:00

I needed to whip up a quick brunch menu this morning, for a friend who was coming over to chat. This was one on-the-fly experiment that worked out quite nicely. May I say that it is amazing what you can do with a can of crescent rolls? I think this is a pretty versatile recipe, too. You can use any meat & cheese combination that you have on hand. It yields 4 servings.

Cheesy Brunch Bundles

4 oz. Chopped Lunch Meat (I used turkey)
3/4 c. Shredded Cheese (I used sharp cheddar)
2 T. Mayonnaise
1T. Stone Ground Mustard
1 Tube Crescent Rolls

Preheat oven to 400°. Combine first four ingredients and mix well. Separate crescent rolls into 4 rectangles, and pinch center seam together. Spoon meat mixture along the center of the rectangle, then pull opposite corners together and twist to seal. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly. I served them with a side of cantaloupe chunks and blueberries.

My friend ended up not being able to join me, so my little guy and I enjoyed a fancy breakfast together.

My Quiche Experiment ~ Ham Casserole

2010-03-27T08:01:00.005-04:00

My family loves my quiche. It is one item that I know EVERYONE will ALWAYS be excited to see on the table. One 10-inch quiche, with a side of fruit, has always fed my guys and me without a problem. That was until my boys became part-Hoover and started sucking up any food in sight. What in the world am I gonna do when they hit high school? (Denise told me this week that it was a good thing that I know how to buy food cheap. Amen.)

At first, I was going to make two quiche...quiches...that's not right, it must be quiche. (What is the plural for quiche, anyway???) It rhymes with geese, so I'll use the same rule...two quiche. (My 12th grade English teacher just broke a sweat without knowing why.)

Anyway...I was going to make two of them. Then, I decided that I didn't want to wash two pie stones. So,I started trying to figure out how to make one really big quiche...which kind of became a breakfast casserole, that still tastes like quiche. I used a can of crescent rolls as the base, which turned out nicely. But, I missed the distinct pie crust flavor from my quiche. Next time, I think I will try making a big batch of pie dough and lining my casserole with it.

We like baked ham in our quiche. Occasionally, I will buy a big ham and cook it for supper, then cube what is left and freeze it in quart-sized bags. On quiche day, I just pull one out and let it thaw.

One other note, I used my Pampered Chef Oval Stoneware Baker, which I have just discovered is no longer available. I estimate that it has about a 10-cup capacity.

Without further adieu...here's the recipe that I came up with. It is husband, 9-year old and 4-year old approved.

Quiche-Like Ham Casserole
1 Tube Crescent Rolls
5 Large Eggs
1 Can Evaporated Milk
Salt & Pepper OR Cavendar's Greek Seasoning (My Choice)
3-4 Cups Cubed Ham
2-4 Cups Grated Sharp Cheddar
(sometimes I use half cheddar and half mozzarella)

Preheat oven to 375°. Press crescent rolls into bottom and partially up the sides of a medium-sized casserole dish. Place casserole in oven while it preheats (no more than 5 minutes)to partially-cook the crescent rolls. Whisk together eggs, evaporated milk, and seasoning. When oven is preheated, remove casserole. Arrange ham on top of the crescent dough, then top with grated cheese. Pour egg mixture over the top. The liquid should just about cover the dough. Bake for 45 minutes, or until puffy and set in the center.

Free For the Asking ~ 18+ Available Freebies

2010-03-26T06:52:00.017-04:00

This has been a fun freebie week for me. There have been some unique deals to play with, including triple coupons at Shoppers. Triple Coupons really ramp up my game! As always, I will begin the post with my personal freebies for the week, along with links or explanations of anything still available. (If you have already requested the samples in my "mailbox" section, you probably won't be able to request them again, unless I indicate that it has "reset".) Then I will give you the links to my favorite new online freebies of the week.

Free stuff is all around us...all you have to do is ask!

Weekly Totals
Spent $111.57
Saved $201.43, 64%
Coupons Used 87
Rebates $15.99
Net Cost $95.58

My Freebies

Drugstore Game:
~Rimmel Mascara & Eyeliner (CVS Clearance, Coupon $3 off Rimmel Mascara in Feb. All You)
~Rimmel Eyeliner (Walmart, Coupon Free Rimmel Cosmetic in March All You)
~Skittles (Walmart, fb promotion, NLA)
~Starburst (Walmart, fb promotion, NLA)
~3 Kotex Liners (Walmart, Coupon $1 off any Kotex in sample packs through mail)
~3 Travel Visine (Walmart, Coupon $2 off any Visine in 3/14 Red Plum Insert)
~2 Cover Girl Foundations (CVS using BOGO in 3/31Proctor and Gamble Insert and Extra Care Bucks)
~1 CVS Shampoo (CVS, Coupon $1 off any CVS shampoo printed at ECB kiosk)
~1 Dawn Hand Renewal (CVS $.96 this week, $1 off Dawn in Home Made Simple Coupon Book)
~1 Crest Rinse (CVS, $3.99 this week, $2 off in 3/7 Proctor and Gamble Insert and Extra Care Bucks)

Grocery Game:
~2 Uncle Ben's Rice
~2 Success Rice
~2 Mueller's Pasta
~8 Gatorade
~4 Betty Crocker Warm Delights
~1 Philly Cream Cheese Minis
~4 Betty Crocker Frosting
~1 Softsoap
~1 First Aid Gauze Pads
~8 Scotch Brite Scrubbers
~2 Lifesavers Strings 'n Rings
~4 Ortega Taco Seasoning
~4 Reese's Dark PB Cups
(Everything above is from Shopper's triple coupon days and is pictured in the top photo.)
~Kashi Heart to Heart Cereal (Freebie Coupon from Vocal Point, NLA)
~2 Ore Ida Potatoes (Not Pictured, Food Lion B2G1 Sale this week, Coupon $1 off 2 in Feb All You.)
~1 Tuna Snacks (Walmart, Freebie Coupon in Feb All You.)

Mailbox:
~Allure Magazine
~Vogue Magazine
~Outside Magazine
~Kotex Sample Pack (HERE, choose between 4 assortments, RESET!)
~Coupon for Free Vitamin Water (fb promotion, NLA)
~True Lemon Sample (HERE)
~Dove Haircare Sample (HERE)
~Tide w/Febreeze Sample w/coupons (HERE)
~Olay Body Wash Sample (HERE, RESET!)
~Burt's Bees Toothpaste Sample (HERE)
~South Beach Diet Bar Sample w/coupon (HERE)

Rebates:
$15.99 Rite Aid Single Check Rebate

Misc:
~Another of the Victoria's Secret Mystery Cards (I told you about HERE under "mailbox")
~Pink Nation Tank Top (nla...that I will NEVER wear in public because it has HUGE writing all over it...but it was free...and I can sleep in it!)

New Online Goodies:

~Get a free Geo Trax video from Mattel HERE. My boys LOVE these movies!

~Walmart is offering samples of Benefiber Orange Sticks HERE. It promises a non-gritty solution to increasing your fiber intake. Also find a $2 coupon HERE.

~There is a new sample of Purex 3-in-1 Available HERE. I think these are just about the neatest things ever!

~Okay...so this is sort of a freebie...Home Depot has a Garden Club that you can opt in to HERE. I am told that you will receive several coupons through the year for great discounts like BOGO houseplants or bulbs for planting.

~Special K is offering a sample of their Protein Meal Bars plus coupons HERE.

~Borba is offering a sample of their Age Defying Concentrate HERE. A little age defying assistance can't be a bad thing...right?

~There is another new link for a Home Made Simple coupon book. This usually results in a free bottle of Dawn (as above in my Drugstore deals). Get it HERE.

~Get a free sample of Nutra Salt Sea Salt HERE. I'm wondering if this is anything like Nu Salt?

~Ensure has a coupon for a free bottle HERE.

~Costco has a free sample of Nature Made Triple Flex HERE. You do not have to be a member to get this one.

~Get a nice-sized sample from Baby Barn HERE. It includes a 2.5 oz bottle of body/ hair wash and baby lotion.

Book Review ~ Isaac Newton by Mitch Stokes

2010-03-25T12:34:00.004-04:00

I recently received a complimentary copy of Isaac Newton from Thomas Nelson Publishers for review. This title is one in a new series of books called Christian Encounters.

Isaac Newton is well-known for his discoveries in the scientific arena. It is not as widely known that he actually devoted more study to theology than to the sciences. Mitch Stokes does an excellent job of painting a truer picture of Newton than the one that resides in the minds of most. He artfully peels away the layers of myth and legend that have come to surround the life of this remarkable man. And, he reveals the true heart and and goal of Isaac Newton, to know God better.

I was surprised at the detail with which Mr. Stokes explains many of Newton's theories, while still keeping the story readable. He also reveals nuances of the relationships that Newton had with his contemporaries and how they impacted his study and discovery throughout his life.

I learned much about a man who was willing to go to the furthest lengths to learn, not for fame or fortune (for he would much rather have kept to himself), but as a means of worshipping and bringing glory to the God that he served.

The Christian Encounters series is intended to bring to life individuals of significance throughout history who were also people of great faith. Biographies of Jane Austen, John Bunyan, Saint Patrick and Winston Churchill are already available. Five more titles including Johann Sebastian Bach, William F. Buckley, St. Francis, Anne Bradstreet and J.R.R. Tolkien are scheduled to release in August of this year.

Although not required to write a positive review of the book by the publisher, I am happy to. I hope to acquire more books in this series as well. There is much to learn from the lives of those who have traveled before us.

To view more information about this book, visit Thomas Nelson Publishers.

You can also preview this book on Amazon.

My Son and the National Geographic Bee

2010-03-23T05:00:00.000-04:00

My oldest son is a regular smarty pants. Really. When he was 3 1/2, I taught him to read. From then on there was no stopping him. He. Reads. Everything. He had read the entire Chronicles of Narnia Series by the time he was seven years old. I am so very thankful for his love of books and learning.

Up until this year, I had heard of a Spelling Bee, but never a Geographic Bee. Early in the school year, schools across the nation test children grades 4 and up on their geography knowledge. The top scorers then participate in a school Geographic Bee, sponsored by National Geographic of course.

We weren't really surprised when he made it into the Bee, he has loved maps since he was five. What did shock us, was when he won...and beat out all the fifth graders. Wanna know the question he answered to win?

"What country holds the worlds five highest mountain peaks?"

Do you know?

We had recently had a discussion about Mt. Everest at our house. Afterward, he did a little more investigation on his own because his curiosity was piqued. During this he discovered that one of the countries that Everest touches is Nepal. He had read enough on the topic to reason through the answer and conclude that Nepal had the 5 highest mountain peaks. He was right.

The teacher guiding us through this process informed us that the next step would be a written test. If he scored high enough on this test, he would qualify to go on to the state competition. In over 10 years of teaching, she had never had a student make it to that level. She began one on one tutoring with him once a week. At home, we had discussions with him about how proud we were of how far he had come. We also talked about how difficult the test would be, and that no matter what happened he should be proud of himself.

Well, wouldn't you know it, we got word a few days ago that he qualified! He is going to compete against 99 other kids, two days before his 10th birthday. He will be among the youngest in the room. Very few fourth graders ever make it this far. We are so very proud, and absolutely amazed. What in the world will he become?

There is a National Geographic Bee Webpage that has daily questions from previous Bees. Today's first question is...

The Jaffna Peninsula, a region inhabited primarily by Tamils, forms the northern tip of what island country?

Do you know?
Me neither...
....
....
....

SRI LANKA

What am I supposed to do with a kid who is already smarter than me at 9 years old?

Deals and Steals ~ 30% Off Any Item at Old Navy

2010-03-22T09:42:00.002-04:00

Follow THIS link to print a coupon that is good through April 4th for 30% off of ANY item at Old Navy (except gift cards). I'm not sure what I will use this for, but with two growing boys, I will find something!

Thanks Deal Seeking Mom!

"A Man Full of Grits is A Man of Peace"

2010-03-21T19:38:00.007-04:00

What's a Grit? I will never forget the first time time that someone asked me that question. (yes, it has happened more than once) My first thought was "Bless his heart, didn't his momma ever cook breakfast for him?"

Grits are as common on a Southern table as fleas on a dog's back. Growing up, it never occurred to me that grits weren't available everywhere. Then as a young bride I left the South...and eventually went to a restaurant...and asked for grits...and got a weird look from a waitress. I should have known better when I didn't see any Waffle Houses around.

Speaking of restaurants, the other day my sister in law (in South Carolina) went to McDonalds to order the Fruit and Maple Oatmeal that I've been raving about. This was before we were aware that my area is a test-market for the stuff. When she ordered oatmeal, the lady behind the counter said, "Oatmeal? Honey, we don't even carry grits!" ~GRIN~

So, let us first ask the right question, Grasshopper. It is not, "What is a grit?" The proper question is, "What are grits?"

Grits are made from milled corn, which is boiled to soften and then traditionally seasoned with salt and butter. This dish is based on a Native American preparation of corn, making it truly American fare. But, similar dishes such as Polenta (Italy) and Fungee (Caribbean) exist around the world.

Grits have had such a deep cultural impact in my home state that the South Carolina Legislature passed a bill in 2000 to name them the official food of the state.

Whereas, throughout its history, the South has "relished its grits", making them "a symbol of its diet, its customs, its humor, and its hospitality"; and

Whereas, every community in the State of South Carolina used to be the site of a grist mill and every local economy in the State used to be dependent on its products; and

Whereas, grits has been a part of the life of every South Carolinian of whatever race, background, gender, and income; and

Whereas, grits could very well play a vital role in the future of not only this State, but also the world, if, as The Charleston News and Courier proclaimed in 1952: "An inexpensive, simple, and thoroughly digestible food, [grits] should be made popular throughout the world. Given enough of it, the inhabitants of planet Earth would have nothing to fight about. A man full of [grits] is a man of peace". Now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

SECTION 1. The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 1-1-703. The official state food is grits."

I told you grits were a big deal!

Do you remember "My Cousin Vinny"? I love Marissa Tomei in that movie! (The edited for TV version, thank you.) I can just see her in the witness stand explaining positraction and limited slip differentials. During the trial, one of the witnesses (who is identified in the screen play as "grits cook") says, "No self-respectin' Southerner uses instant grits, I take pride in my grits."

I have to disagree, sort of. Although I'm not a huge fan of the instant variety, quick grits are perfectly acceptable. And, they cook in five minutes instead of twenty. You won't find the long cooking version outside of grits country anyway.

If you have never tried grits, give them a chance. Cheese Grits are fun too, after your grits have cooked to package directions, just throw in some Velveeta and stir to melt. But, if you really want to go all out, try my Cheese Grits Casserole recipe below. I always make it for the team that we take to Mississippi every Summer to help with continued Katrina relief.

Cheese Grits Casserole

4c. Water
1c. Quick Grits
Salt to taste
1 Stick Butter
6-8 oz. Velveeta
2 eggs
Milk

Place water, grits and salt in a large saucepan and whisk (no one likes lumpy grits). Heat just to boiling. Reduce heat, cover and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Add margarine and cheese, stir until melted. Set aside. Beat eggs with enough milk to make 1 cup. Add egg mixture to grits and combine. Pour into an 8x8 casserole and bake at 325° for 1 hour.

Remember...eating grits will contribute to world peace. Wouldn't you love to be a part of that solution?

Running Totals ~ 10.5 Miles This Week

2010-03-20T15:14:00.005-04:00

I told you in THIS post about the Fall Half-Marathon that my friend Denise and I are training for. The snow apocalypse kind of brought training to a screeching halt. It is nigh-on impossible to run through 4 feet of snow. And, the two-lane roads that we frequent were scraped but more like 1 1/2 lanes. So, we stopped training. Thankfully, the weather has turned gorgeous...and the snow is ALL GONE!

The first month of running is horrid, really. My lungs feel like they are gonna explode, my legs turn to jelly, I feel like a big blob... actually, I feel a lot like this guy.Yeah...did I ever tell you about the time that a buzzard (translation=vulture) circled me as I ran? I guess I looked like I was on my last leg. But, I digress...

There is a turning point somewhere between weeks 2 and 4, all of a sudden, one day I don't feel like I'm gonna pass out when I finish a run. Guess what? I had JUST gotten to that point when snowmageddon hit. So, I got to start ALL OVER again this week. Thankfully, one month off didn't do as much damage as the previous two years off did...amazing, huh?

So, after a small setback I'm back on the wagon again. Wait...there's no wagon. If there were, this whole process would be easier ~snicker~ (Yeah, I know that one was sad.)

This week I logged about 10.5 miles. (That's an estimate. I'll get more particular with it as I progress.) Considering I have to build up to running 3 miles farther in one morning than I did all week, there is a looong way to go. I'll get there, though (especially with Denise pointing out all the times I'm being a wimp). If anyone local wants to join us at the race, come on...we can encourage one another as we train. Race day is October 2nd.

*Header quote credit goes to my bud Denise...that's what she says when I'm being a wimp.

Free for the Asking ~ 14+ Available Freebies!

2010-03-18T14:30:00.016-04:00

This has been a SWEET week for freebies in the drugstore and grocery games. The deals have just lined up amazingly, and it didn't hurt that I had $18 in catalina dollars and over $20 in Extra Care Bucks to spend from deals last week. I hardly believe all the free stuff in my pics...but my receipts confirm it all. My mailbox hasn't yielded much this week. I'm expecting a rebate that hasn't arrived...and hoping I don't have a freebie thief lurking around. I seriously doubt anyone would be brave enough to get between me and a freebie, though. ~Grin~

As always, I'll start with my freebies for the week, along with links to anything that it still available. Then, I will list the new online freebies that I've come across. Free stuff is all around us...all you have to do is ask!

Weekly Totals
Spent $36.75
Saved $224.62, 86%
Coupons Used 65
Rebates $5
Net Cost $31.75

My Freebies

Drugstore Game:
~1 Herbal Essences Shampoo (CVS)
~1 Herbal Essences Styler (CVS-use BOGO coupon in 2/7 P&G insert)
~2 Packs Stayfree Pads (Rite Aid)
~1 Pack Kotex Liners (Walmart-Watch for $1 off any Kotex coupons)
~2 Right Guard Deoderant (CVS)
~6 Degree Deodorant (CVS)
~1 Gillette Fusion Razor (CVS)
~1 Gillette Fusion Cartridge 4pk. (CVS)
~1 Skittles (Walmart-fb promo, NLA)
~1 Benadryl Liqui-gels (Rite Aid)
~1 Sudafed Tablets (Rite Aid)
~1 Neosporin Cream (Rite Aid)
~2 Cortaid Cream (Rite Aid)
~2 Full-size Visine (Rite Aid)
~2 Travel-size Visine (Walmart-$2 off any Visene in 3/14 RP insert, makes it free)
~3 Bags Hershey's Easter Candy (CVS)
~1 Johnson's Shea Butter Baby Wash (Rite Aid)

*Rite Aid and CVS deals end Saturday. For CVS deal ideas visit Southern Savers, to see the Rite Aid deal that I ran, see THIS post at For the Mommas. The Rite Aid deal also qualifies you for a $25 single check rebate from Rite Aid. If you have questions, let me know.

Grocery Game:
~5 Boxes Assorted Fruit Snacks (Safeway, NLA)
~1 Scotties Tissue (Weis-Coupon available HERE, makes it free thru Saturday)
~4 Boxes Nature Valley Granola Bars(Safeway, NLA)
~4 Bottles Coffee Mate(Weis, thru catalinas)
~5 Bottles Marie's Dressing (Safeway, NLA)
~1 Buddig Deli Cuts Lunch Meat (Safeway, use in ad coupon & $1 off in SS 1/17 or 2/7 to get these for .77 each, limit 5)(mine was free using catalina)
~3 Boxes Pillsbury Cake Mix (Safeway, use in ad coupon to get these for .69 each, limit 3)(mine was free using catalina)
~2 Bags Nature Valley Nut Clusters (Safeway, NLA)
~1 Box Digiorno 200 Calorie Pizzas (Weis)(freebie coupon, online promo, NLA)
~1 Bunch Bananas (Weis, catalina)
~1 24 oz. Velveeta (Weis, catalina)
~4 Suave 24hr Deodorants (Safeway, some stores have these 4 for $5, use THIS $3 off 2 coupon, printed twice, to get 4 free with overage)

Mailbox:
~1 Full-Size Pantene Shampoo w/coupons (Online promo, NLA)
~$10 Box Tops Coupon Book (Available HERE)
~Mystery Gift Card to Victoria's Secret (Between $10 and $500-Free with any purchase online, or $10 purchase in store through March 31. No promo code needed, included in every order. Find details HERE, lower right side of page.)

Rebates:
~$5 SC Johnson Rebate (Form NLA)

Swagbucks Rewards:
~$5 Amazon Gift Card

New Online Goodies

~HisKids.net is offering a free decoder ring HERE. The "topic" on the form should say "monthly offer", I also wrote "thanks for the decoder ring" in the notes for good measure. This will be in an Easter Basket or Stocking at my house, depending on when it arrives.

~Get your free sample of Sooo Sweet sweetener HERE. This product is made from Stevia, which is a plant-based sweetener and is popular as a healthy sugar alternative.

~Join the Uno Insider's Club HERE for specials all year long, beginning with a free appetizer in your first email.

~Another great freebie from Kotex is available HERE. U by Kotex will be sending you several samples in one package.

~Choose your sample of Splenda for Coffee HERE. Flavors available are Hazelnut and Mocha...it's a win-win situation!

~Redbook and Profound Beauty are offering a sample of Hush Time-Out Frizz Fighting Treatment HERE. I'm not familiar with this brand, are you?

~Go HERE to try out Dove Daily Treatment Conditioner. I love having these little packets to use for travel.

~Better Oats is offering a coupon for a free full-size box of oatmeal HERE, with a catch. They ask that you cook theirs and your regular brand, try them both, and then send in an email or video with your opinion. I don't mind shooting someone an email for free oatmeal! (I expect to find these in the Health Food Section, I understand that their store locator is supposed to be up soon.)

Prayer of Saint Patrick

2010-03-17T08:51:00.003-04:00

"Christ shield me today. Against wounding,
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ in me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me,
Christ in the ear that hears me."

~St. Patrick

*image courtesy of bing

St. Patrick's Day Lunch

2010-03-17T07:49:00.004-04:00

My oldest has been a bit obsessed with St. Patrick's Day this year. He picked out what he wanted to wear over a month ago. And, he has been reminding me a couple of times a week to make sure that "the green shirt with the storm troopers on it" is clean. I suspect that the olive green shirt he wore last year didn't cut the mustard with his classmates. There must have been a whole lot of pinching going on. So, this year I decided to surprise him with a green lunch to go with his green shirt. Green is his favorite color, too. He is gonna love this.

Today he will be having:
~Green Kool-Aid
~Lime Jello with pineapple
~Green Goldfish (From a box of Goldfish Colors.)
~These Muffins, dyed green
~Green Peeps (for dessert)

I know another mom who has a Leprechan visit her house while the kids are sleeping. He leaves all kinds of mischief, including green water in the toilet. What fun things are you doing with your kids today?

Wilton Cake Decorating Works for Me!

2010-03-16T13:48:00.006-04:00

About 10 years ago I bought a "Cake Decorating Kit" with the idea that I would learn to be a decorator. It was nothing auspicious, I just wanted to be able to make shaped character cakes and have them come out looking like the character in question.

I spent an afternoon trying diligently to make canned frosting take the shapes illustrated in the kit. I'm gonna be real honest here. My roses looked like little piles of poo. There ended my 6 hour foray into the world of cake decorating.

Fast forward 7 years. A friend was having a birthday party for her son. His first birthday party to be exact. I made a cake to match the puppy theme of the party. It was really cool on the inside (a checkerboard cake), but the outside was pretty sad. I decided to finally get professional help and tame the decorating beast.

I enrolled in a local decorating class at my community center. Although not an official Wilton class, it was based on the Wilton method and tools. I learned that you cannot use canned frosting to decorate a cake...hmmm...no wonder I was getting poo-roses before. In my first class I learned proper techniques for making decorator icing, how to properly level and frost a cake, how to smooth the icing, and about all the tools of the trade. It was an 8 week class, (1 to 1 1/2 hours per week). And, the final project was, of course, a cake. The photo above is the cake that I made after 8 weeks...a definite improvement from my sad puppy cake. (I honestly tried to find a photo of that puppy cake to show you...but it appears to be buried somewhere on a cd. Trust me, it was sad.)

I then decided to take a second level course at my local Michael's craft store. Most national crafting chains now offer Wilton Classes, and they are incredibly reasonable. I think I paid $25 for 8 classes, plus the supplies. (You can use those nifty 40% off coupons that come out weekly in the sale ads for the supplies, too.) It was an investment of a little money and a little time. But, I learned so much in that short period of time. I have saved a ton of money on birthday cakes, and have been confident enough to make cakes for friends as well.

There are a couple of higher level classes that I want to take involving fondant and gum paste. I'm gonna have to carve out a little "mommy time" soon!

You can find more information about Wilton Cake Decorating classes in your area HERE. It really is a fun skill to have under your belt. And, your life is guaranteed to be free of poo-roses and sad puppy cakes ;)

*I have not been compensated in any way for this post. I'm just sharing my personal experiences and feelings about this program.

A Lesson Learned from the Fire Inspector

2010-03-13T05:00:00.001-05:00

To me, one of the intimidating parts of the adoption process has been the home inspections. It is just a little weird to have strangers come into your house and poke around, ya know? We've had several inspections by different entities. One of these was done by our local Fire Inspector.

I have to tell you that I am super vigilant with fire safety. Twice we have had our next-door neighbor's house burn (both were gutted). I've actually become a little OCD about it. One Sunday, after getting to church, I drove the 10 miles back home because I did not remember unplugging the curling iron....the one with the automatic shutoff. And yes...I had unplugged it.

I was not terribly worried about the fire inspection.

We passed with flying colors. Our only problem was that the reflective numbers on our mailbox were 1/2 inch too small....I know, seriously?

Mr. Inspector was a gem, really. He reminded me of my dad. He gave me lots of great advice. I actually enjoyed his visit. There was one nugget of information that he shared that really surprised me.

Do you know what the #1 reason for 911 calls on behalf of children is? Get this...it is for ingesting dishwasher detergent. (At least in our area.) He said that it is some of the most caustic stuff in the house. When it comes into contact with moisture ~saliva~, it activates and causes severe chemical burns. He cautioned me to be extrememly vigilant with keeping it locked away.

I just wanted to share that with y'all. Those of us who stockpile have to be careful not only with the container we are using presently, but also with the containers that are stashed away for later. We've gotta keep those babies safe!

Free For the Asking ~ 7+ Available Freebies

2010-03-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

Deals and Steals - See Here Photo Gifts - Free Shipping!

2010-03-10T19:56:00.004-05:00

I just received an email from SeeHere.com. They are offering some pretty sweet deals through March 17. The photo above is a puzzle that I designed on their site in about 10 minutes from my own photos. The design program is intuitive, I enjoy using it.

~40% off all photo puzzles with Free Shipping...a 7x10 (110 piece) puzzle for $7.80, shipped
Promo Code puzzle-6

~25% off all photo posters with Free Shipping...a 11x14 poster for $5.25, shipped
Promo Code poster-25

~30% off all photo mugs with Free Shipping...a standard mug for $7.80, shipped
Promo Code mug-16

~30% off photo pillowcases with Free Shipping...$13.99, shipped
Promo Code pillowcase-1

~25% off photo aluminum water bottles with Free Shipping...$12.75, shipped
Promo Code gogreen-2

I have purchased several photo gifts from SeeHere, and have always been pleased. The puzzle, poster, pillowcase or water bottle could be fun in an Easter Basket. We also have Mother's Day and Father's Day to think about soon...or...dare I say it...stocking stuffers??? (I know, I'm a freak to be thinking about Christmas already.) Let me know if you get something fun!

Deals and Steals - Victoria's Secret

2010-03-10T19:42:00.003-05:00

Are you a member of Pink Nation? If you are, you can go HERE to log in and print out a coupon for a $10 t-shirt dress (in store only) at Victoria's Secret. I think this little dress would make a nice beach cover-up. If you aren't a member, sign up. Pink Nation members regularly get freebies or gifts with purchase. And, as soon as the Pink Nation numbers 1,000,000 members, we will all get a freebie...YIPPEE :) As I write this post there are 970,975 members. It won't take long to make up that 29,000. If you aren't a member before they hit a million, you won't be able to get the freebie. So, sign up now! Go HERE to join.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Hope that Spring is Near

2010-03-10T05:00:00.001-05:00

My sweet boy with the eagle eyes found the first flower of Spring in our yard.

It must have been growing under the snow, which is still receding.

I have never been so grateful for the first warm day...58 degrees...heavenly!

How to Work That Catalina Deal

2010-03-09T14:19:00.005-05:00

When I started couponing seriously, I kept reading about "catalinas". The only catalina I knew was a salad dressing...I was understandably confused.

A "catalina" is a coupon that prints at the register when you check out, if certain buying requirements are met. The coupon is good for a certain dollar amount off of your next purchase at that store. For example, a couple of weeks ago Super Fresh had a catalina deal. If you purchased $30 in P&G products, you received a catalina for $10 ONYO (off your next order). I purchased 3 packs of paper products at $10 each (sale price), used $1 off coupons for each pack, paid $27 out of pocket. Then I received a $10 catalina at checkout, which brought my net cost down to $17 for nearly $45 in paper goods. I then used that $10 off of my next purchase, bringing a $16 bill down to $6.

Here is a fab catalina that I scored today at Weis.

Weis has two catalina deals running right now on select Kellog's Cereal.
~Thru March 13, buy $20 in Kellog's products and get $7 catalina
~Thru March 13, buy 5 boxes Kellog's cereal (listed below) and get $4 catalina
*Frosted Flakes
*Apple Jacks
*Froot Loops
*Corn Pops
*Cocoa Krispies
*Honey Smacks

~Corn Pops, Froot Loops, and Apple Jacks are on sale for $2.50 (Largest Size)

There are coupons for $1 off 2 in the 3/7 Red Plum insert or you might get lucky and find a blinky in the store that has coupons for $.70 off the same 3 cereals that are on sale.

(A blinky is the motorized coupon dispenser that you find attached to grocery shelves.)

Here is my deal:
5 Boxes Apple Jacks $12.50
3 Boxes Corn Pops $7.50
Total $20.00

Used 8 blinky $.70 coupons = $5.60
Brings total to $14.40

Met requirements for both catalina deals. Received $11.00 off my next order.
Net total for 8 boxes of cereal= $3.40, or $.43 each.

If you don't find the blinky in your store, you can still use the coupons from the most recent Sunday paper to get this deal for $5.

Thanks to For the Mommas for doing the Weis matchups every week!

Unbaked, No-Bake, Preacher Cookies

2010-03-09T05:00:00.001-05:00

I've seen these cookies called everything under the sun. I don't care what you call them, they are my all-time favorite cookie...ever...in the world...in the universe...

It took me 5 years to get these right. Not because they are difficult, mind you. Nope...it was because my recipe was missing a step. My frustration grew with each gooey, runny batch. Now I can't even remember what was missing. What I do remember is miming the "I coulda had a V8" move when it finally hit me to look at another recipe for the same cookie. Yep, it was glaring at me, right there...used the new recipe and it worked like magic. Yes, they are magical cookies. **grins**

Unbaked, No-Bake, Preacher Cookies

2 C. Sugar
1 Stick Butter
1/2 C. Cocoa Powder
1/2 C. Milk
1/2 C. Crunchy Peanut Butter
3 C. Quick Oats
1 tsp. Vanilla

Before starting, prep an area to spoon out the cookies. I like to put a towel on my kitchen table, top that with some waxed paper, and then add a hot pad to set the saucepan on. Also, get out your scooper. I use a mini-ice cream scoop, but you can use a teaspoon as well.

Dump the sugar, butter, cocoa and milk into a medium saucepan. Bring to a full, rolling boil. Boil hard for one minute, stirring constantly.

Remove from heat. Add peanut butter and stir until melted. Add oatmeal and vanilla and mix well.

Drop onto waxed paper and allow to cool.

Yield: 4 dozen (by the teaspoon full)

These are not good for your waistline, in case you were wondering.

Keep Those Pretty Cake Plates Clean!

2010-03-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

You may already know this trick, but just in case, I wanted to share it. I am really messy in the kitchen. One day I'll show you a picture of it after an all-day cooking session...maybe. Someone taught me how to keep the frosting off of my cake plate while decorating a cake. Cut strips of waxed paper, about 2 inches wide, and tuck them under the edge of the cake, over lapping them until the plate is covered.

After you are finished frosting, gently pull them out using a side to side motion. Voila...clean cake plate :)

New Additions

2010-03-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

No...I'm not pregnant...wouldn't that be a hoot ...seein' as how we are adopting child #3 and all? No, I'm talking about a new addition to the ole' blog. You may have noticed in the past couple of days that there is a shiny new button at the top of the blog that says "Recipes".

After nosing around a bit, I finally figured out how to create buttons across the bottom of the header.
Whadaya know?

Over time, I'll add a more. I thought it would be nice to start by putting all of my recipes in one place.

Did ya notice how I pretty much lost all semblance of correct grammar in this post? Me, too. I'm guessing it has something to do with the post-ick haze that I'm in right now (kid and husband both sick). Maybe I should step away from the computer now, hmmm.

Wondering what the photo has to do with this post? Nothing at all. I'm just dreaming of warm weather, baby!

Happy Sunday!

*The photo is my own, taken on Darkwood Beach, Antigua.

Use Proctor and Gamble Coupons For Charity

2010-03-06T13:00:00.000-05:00

I just read about something that made me smile, and I want to pass it along. For the Mommas is reporting that this Sunday's (March 7) P&G insert will be their largest ever, with more than $160 in coupons. The cool part is that for every coupon redeemed from this insert, a child in a poverty-stricken nation will receive 1 day of clean drinking water through the Children's Safe Drinking Water Program. This promotion makes me giddy! You can visit For the Mommas HERE for a preview of the coupons that will be in this insert.

Freebie Friday

2010-03-05T05:00:00.002-05:00

This is my weekly freebie post. First, I'll show you everything that I've gotten for free this week, along with the links to anything that is still available. At the bottom of the post is a list of my favorite online freebies from this week. I usually get at least one free item in the mail every day...it's just like Christmas! Free stuff is out there, it's just a matter of looking for it!

Weekly Totals
Spent-$67.15
Saved-$70.76, 51%
Coupons Used-21
Rebates Received-$39.98
Net Cost-$27.17

*Normally, I have between 60% and 70% savings. This week, I am preparing some extra special treats for a ladies retreat. I did not have a few of the items that I wanted in my stockpile, so I actually paid full price, GASP!!! I know, but since I spent $67 on groceries instead of $137, it didn't bother me to add a few splurgy (splurgey? splurgee?...is that even a word?)items here and there.

My Freebies:

Drugstore Game:
~18 oz. Softsoap Body Wash
~4ct. Schick Quattro cartridges
~2 Renu Travel Kits (see how to get these free HERE)
~2 Kotex Liners (see how to get these free HERE)

Grocery Game:
~2 5lb Bags Gold Medal Flour (coupon HERE, make sure to print it twice!)
Safeway has this flour on sale for $1.50. The above coupon is for .75, and doubles. This equals free flour. (The coupon states do not double, but everyone I know has had it double automatically.)

Mailbox:
*Please note that I have told you about some of these previously. These have not reset, I'm just telling you where to find them in case you missed them the first time.
~Pop Tarts Sample with 1/2 Birthday Banner (Join the Sprinklings Club HERE for random goodies throughout the year.)
~Bayer Pill Case (facebook promo, NLA)
~Full-Size Colgate Pro-Clinical (Online promo, NLA)
~Kashi Cereal Sample (Choose your Kashi Sample HERE)
~Cream of Wheat Sample w/coupon (Choose your flavor HERE)
~Purex 3-in-1 Sample (Available HERE)LOVE these for travel!
~Loreal EverPure Shampoo & Conditioner (Available HERE)
~Veria Moisturizer Samples (online promo, NLA)
~Louisiana Hot Sauce (facebook Superbowl promo, NLA)
~Spa Magazine (online promo, NLA)
~$10 Betty Crocker Coupon Book (Sign up for the Betty Crocker Newsletter HERE to get yours)

Rebates Received:
~Rite Aid Single Check Rebates $11.99
~Naked Juice Rebate $10
~Costco Jump Start Rebate $17.99

Swagbucks Reward:
~$5 Amazon Gift Card

New Online Goodies:

Sam's Club has samples of Bounce 4 in 1 Dryer sheets HERE. You do NOT have to be a club member (just leave the membership number blank). I need all the free laundry stuff I can get...did I mention that I have boys?

Become a fan of Vitaminwater on facebook HERE and fill out the form to receive a coupon via snail mail for a free bottle.

Emergen-C has a pretty cool "recipe" offer going. Pick your flavor HERE. Oddly, I could not get this one, apparently because I got a sample through an earlier promotion. See if it works for you.

I am told that you can request a sample of Bora Bora Organic Bars HERE. Now, all I see is a contest for a vacation to a tropical locale, which I would not complain about winning AT ALL. But...they say this also gets you a freebie. Worst case scenario, you get no freebie but you are entered in the contest. (It is really worth it just to look at the warmness in the pictures...I ♥ flip flops!)

Betty Crocker is giving away coupons via snail mail for free YoPlus HERE.

Join Mom's Meet HERE to receive a free subscription to Kiwi magazine.

Get a sample of Hills Science Diet for man's best friend HERE.

**I'm writing this post one day early, because of the aforementioned retreat. Please don't lynch me if one of these deals bites the dust early =0) Ya liked that big word I used right there...didn't ya???

*Opening image courtesy of Bing.

Momma's Cameo Cake

2010-03-04T12:41:00.007-05:00

I learned this recipe when I was a very young bride. It is unique. I have never seen it printed anywhere else. I am quite convinced that this is what the New Testament calls Manna...of course, I've said that about Krispy Kreme Donuts too. Well, I'm sure it was one or the other. You can't go wrong with White Chocolate, Toasted Pecans and Cream Cheese...now can you? It is sweet, but not sickeningly so, and wonderful with coffee! This is not a beginner-level recipe. If you have baking experience, you'll be fine. If you haven't done a lot of baking yet, you may want to get your feet wet with some easier recipes first. But, please come back to this one. You won't regret it. You know...any recipe with "Momma" in the name has to be good!

Momma's Cameo Cake

1 1/2 C. Butter, room temperature
3/4 C. Water
4 oz. White Chocolate, broken up (the real stuff)
1 1/2 C. Buttermilk
4 Large Eggs, lightly beaten
1 1/2 tsp. Vanilla
3 1/2 C. All-Purpose Flour, divided
1 C. Chopped Pecans, toasted
2 1/4 C. Sugar
1 1/2 tsp. Baking Soda

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease and flour 3 9-inch pans (or use Baker's Joy).

Toast pecans in a small fry pan at medium heat, stirring frequently, until they smell wonderful and nutty.

Combine butter and water in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Add white chocolate and stir until chocolate melts. Set Aside.

Combine pecans with 1/2 C. flour and stir to coat (this keeps the pecans from sinking to the bottom while baking.)

Combine remaining 3 C. flour, sugar and baking soda in a large mixing bowl. Set Aside.

To your white chocolate mixture, add buttermilk, eggs and vanilla. Stir to combine.

Gradually add white chocolate mixture to flour mixture, stirring until combined. Fold in pecans. Batter will be thin. Divide equally between prepared cake pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes, then turn out onto racks and allow to cool completely. Prepare Frosting.

Cameo Frosting

4 oz. White Chocolate (again, the real thing)
2 8 oz. Blocks Cream Cheese, room temperature
1/3 C. Butter, room temperature
6 1/2 C. Sifted Powdered Sugar
1 1/2 tsp. Vanilla
1 C. pecans, toasted

Toast pecans again, as above.

Melt white chocolate in heavy saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes, stir occasionally.

Beat cream cheese and butter with a mixer until creamy.

Gradually add white chocolate, beat until blended.

Gradually add powdered sugar, beating between additions until smooth.

Stir in vanilla and cooled pecans.

Frost cooled cake.

Try not to eat any for about 5 minutes...I dare ya!

This post is linked to the Ultimate Recipe Swap over at Life As Mom.

I Think My Howdy Was Busted

2010-03-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

It appears that I have been going through a bit of an identity crisis for the past, oohh...13 years. Yep, it took me that long to figure it out. Let me explain.

There are several ways to know when you have officially reached the South. One is the appearance of Sweet Tea, Grits, or Fried Green Tomatoes on a menu. Another (in my humble opinion) is the appearance of palm trees on the coast. (I cannot tell you how disturbing it was to me to visit a beach with no palm trees...I'm still not over it!) However, the most noticeable difference when you reach the South is the strangers who "speak" to you.

Now, in Southernese "speaking" to someone may not involve the use of the voice. But, it always involves eye contact, a nod and a smile. You "speak" to every person that you make eye contact with...it's just good manners.

Some years ago a friend of ours moved south from New York. He looked at me one day and asked, "Why is it that people I don't know keep coming up and saying hello to me?" **snicker** If only I could type in a New York accent.

Southerners who run into each other may "speak" as described above, or they may actually strike up a conversation including questions like, "How's your momma?" The Southerner asking the question may or may not know the other person's momma, it's just polite to ask.

Okay, back to my identity crisis. I have moved out of, then into, then back out of the South. The first time that I went to the mall in a non-Southern location I got lots of weird looks...because I was "speaking" to everyone I met. They had no inclination to "speak" back, and obviously thought I was off kilter a bit. I went home thinking that I had just encountered the rudest lot of people on the planet. It took me a while (I was young and not well-traveled) to realize that this was their culture. One day I decided, "Okay, when in Rome..." I taught myself to be in public without making eye contact or "speaking" unless necessary.

Then, I moved back South. I went to the grocery store for the first time, and looked at people funny because they were "speaking" to me...I had crossed over to the dark side. It didn't take long to get back in the groove again. Life is much more fun when you're sharing smiles with strangers!

Then, 5 years ago, I moved North again. I confess, I am a few miles south of the Mason-Dixon (hence my name), but trust me, this ain't the South. I told you a little more about where I live in my very first post.

I decided, once I got a feel for the culture here, that I would once again start actin' like a Roman and shrink into my cocoon. You know what I've discovered? I don't like it. It isn't who I am. Now, I am a self-declared, non-official student of culture. I love to learn about people all over the world and why they do what they do. But, I discovered that in my quest to be culturally relevant in this place, I had lost an important piece of myself.

So, one day last week I conducted my own little Sociological Experiment (paid a quarter for that word, yes ma'am.) I went on my weekly bargain run and made it a point to "speak" to every single person I encountered. You know what I learned? A few of them obviously thought I was one french fry short of a Happy Meal. And, a few were kind of startled. But, I got a grin out of more than half of them. I'm starting a revolution, baby!

Hello, my name is Amy. I am a Southerner...and I say "Hey, There" to people that I don't know!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Rare Moments

2010-03-03T07:02:00.004-05:00

The simplest things that can make my heart smile.

They are reading our favorite Bible story book for kids,

The Beginner's Bible.

Have You Ever Been Paid to Shop?

2010-03-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

It is rare that I post a singular shopping trip, but this one was pretty sweet. I'm sharing this one in order to show you how to stack the deals for your best benefit.

Here's what I bought:
1 Satin Care Shave Gel- Reg. $2.99, Sale $1.99
1 Anti Monkey Butt Powder- Reg. $5.99, Sale $3.99
1 Listerine Pocket 3-Pack- Reg. $4.49, Sale $3.99
2 Kotex Liners- Reg. $1.49, Sale $.99
2 Renu Travel Pack- Reg. $3.49, Sale $.99
1 Prevacid 42ct.- Reg. $28.99
Retail total= $52.43 plus tax

Coupons:
$5 off $25 purchase (Kidstuff book) (You can get $5 off $20 monthly via Video Values)
$1 off Satin Care, Proctor & Gambel Insert 2/7
$1 off Listerine Pocket Packs, Red Plum Insert 1/3
2 x $1 off Kotex Liners printable HERE (use zip code 63366)(makes them free)
2 x $1 off Renu Solution printable at link above. (makes them free)
$10 off Prevacid 42 count, USA Weekend Magazine, 2/28
Out of Pocket Cost= $22.28

Rite Aid Single Check Rebates:
$1 Satin Care (makes it free)
$3 Anti Monkey Butt Powder
$3 Listerine Pocket Packs (makes it free)
Total Rebate= $7

Prevacid Rebate from Parade Magazine, 2/28
(Promises a rebate of retail price minus $4)
Total Rebate= $24.99

Out of Pocket $22.28
Minus Total Rebates $31.99
Money Made $9.71

That's right, I'm earning $9.71 for this purchase of more than $50 in merchandise.

Have you wondered what "Anti Monkey Butt Powder" is? *Grins* It is used by bikers and others to avoid chafing. Check out the link.

I have to thank For The Mommas and Southern Savers, they match the deals and then I create a plan of attack that works for me.

Simplifying Life ~ Event Binder

2010-03-01T08:46:00.004-05:00

I organize myself with binders. My repertoire consists of binders for Christmas, coupons, gifts and events. I also have one that I use to organize a week of meals that I prepare for a mission team of 30 each year. Over time I will show you all of my binders.

My event binder has two purposes, personal and business. My husband's job gives me the opportunity to plan two large events each year. I also use it to track personal parties, dinner with friends, and holiday meals.

The binder is divided into 5 sections:
~Business Events
~Dinner Parties
~Event Recipes
~Dinner Menus
~Potluck Recipes

Business Events-Each event or dinner has a page with the name of the event, the date, and a list of decisions made for that event. If it is an event using invitations, I attach a copy of the invitation to the back of the page. I make notes about where items are purchased (invitations, centerpieces, etc.), colors used, background music, guest speakers, and favors. I also note the cost of these items, to keep my budget comparable from year to year. I personally prepare the food for one of these events. So, I keep a copy of the menu and recipes. Then, the day after the event, I note how much was eaten or leftover. One year I fixed 15 pounds of potatoes and had a lot of leftovers, so I made a note to reduce it to 10 pounds the next year. I also make notes of the number of people who attended and comments at the event, "This cake is amazing", or "I'm not a real fan of curry."

Dinner Parties-This is my personal event planner. Again, each event has it's own page listing the event, date, people in attendance and menu. I also list any food sensitivities, likes or dislikes that I learn from my guests. I know that one friend is very sensitive to chocolate late at night. I made a note of this so that I'm sure to fix a non-chocolate dessert when his family comes over.

Event Recipes-These are my go-to recipes that are easy to prepare in bulk. They are also tried and true, always well received. One example is my Southern Style Green Beans. (Although, I don't really need the recipe for this one.)

Dinner Menus-I have several specialty menus that I like to use when we have guests for dinner. Pulling together a dinner party is much quicker when I can check my list to see what I've served a family in the past, and then choose a new menu from this section. This includes my Broiled Parmesan Tomatoes and Buttermilk Biscuits.

Potluck Recipes-These are recipes that are easy to transport! They also serve as an idea bank when I want to take a meal to a friend who is ill, etc. This includes my Black Bean Chicken Chili.

This binder serves to supplement a memory that fails me often. It also provides a framework for planning events that happen annually. All I have to do is fill in the blanks, saving time and energy. After all, why reinvent the wheel?

Deals and Steals - Coldwater Creek 25% Off AND Free Shipping

2010-02-26T11:23:00.009-05:00

One of my favorite stores, Coldwater Creek, has a great promo code out right now for 25% off of ANY purchase AND Free Shipping. There are a lot of good deals in the outlet right now. I just picked up these gloves and bag for $15.88, shipped. Retail for these items, without shipping would be over $68.

I also picked up this top, recently...it was the one I was wearing when I got stuck in the snow this week...ugh.

Thanks for the tip, Redemption Unlimited!

Use Code WHH8520 to get this deal. And, don't forget to shop through Ebates for an additional 2% cash back.

**Ebates is a cash back program for online orders. In less than a year I have earned $190 cash back on purchases through them. Yes it really works! They deposit my savings in my paypal account every few months. If you sign up through the link above, I will receive a $5 bonus to my account. You will receive a $5 bonus whether you use my link or not. If you prefer not to connect through me, simply visit www.ebates.com. If you ever make purchases online, you should be using a reputable cash back site.

**Disclaimer...Coldwater Creek seems to be adjusting their base outlet prices up and down frequently, which can be very annoying. I am very careful to only purchase things that I am confident are at a deep discount.**

**This post is linked to Saving & Giving's Sharing Savings.

Image courtesy of Bing.

Freebie Friday

2010-02-26T09:21:00.002-05:00

This is my weekly freebie post. First, I'll show you everything that I've gotten for free this week, along with the links to anything that is still available. At the bottom of the post is a list of my favorite online freebies from this week. I usually get at least one free item in the mail every day...it's just like Christmas! Free stuff is out there, it's just a matter of looking for it!

Weekly Totals:
Spent-$145.31
Saved-$201.58 ~ 58% savings
Future Money- $2 @ Weis, $10 @ Superfresh, $20.49 @ CVS
(This is cash off of a future purchase at each store.)
*Please note that I am playing catchup this week. The weather kept me from shopping for about 10 days earlier in the month. I normally would not spend $145 in one week.

My Freebies:

Drugstore Game:
~8 Cans Bumblebee Tuna
~Ear Rinse
~Colgate Max Fresh
~3 Colgate Toothbrushes

Grocery Game:
~Rotel
~2 Coffee Mate
~Sarah Lee Bread
~1/2 Gallon Chocolate Milk (not shown)
~1 lb. Ground Turkey
~Fresh Express Salad

Mailbox:
~Avery Removable Label Pad
~3 Pampers Diapers w/coupon HERE
~Murad Skincare Sample HERE
~Betty Crocker Calendar w/recipes HERE
~Eat Better America Calendar w/recipes HERE

Online Goodies:

Zone Perfect is giving away a free sample to their first 30,000 fans on facebook. Click HERE and then click the "Zone Perfect" tab. I've never had a Zone product...wondering how it will taste.

Walmart is giving away samples of Olay Total Effects Body Wash HERE. I love taking these samples along when I travel.

True Lemon is giving away samples HERE. Tasty in tea or water.

Tide has a sample of their new detergent with Febreeze HERE. This will come in handy at my house...you see, I have boys...and their laundry can use all the help it can get!

South Beach has a sample of their new S'mores bar HERE. It's S'mores...do you need another reason to grab this one???

Mercury Magazines has a totally free subscription to Ladies Home Journal HERE. You will need to select an industry. I used "other" and then "homemaker". Under job function I always select "general manager" (and I dare anyone to question that!) These are legitimate, I have several free subscriptions from them.

Walmart also has a free sample of Crest 3D Whitestrips HERE. Been drinking too much coffee? Here's the solution ;)

You may notice as you link to the freebies this week that a new window opens for the link. This makes it easier to come back to MDM for the next freebie on the list. My cool friend, Jenny, over at Payday Shopping taught me how to edit the HTML for this neat little trick. Thanks, Jenny! She is trying to shop only on paydays (Bi-weekly), and cook great meals for her family. Be sure to check out some of her recipes. She has a versatile Mushroom Risotto that I am anxious to try out.

Ma Ma Betty's Pimento Cheese

2010-02-25T05:00:00.004-05:00

I grew up on pimento cheese. Now, I know that a lot of people in the Northern Territories either 1) Don't know what it is, or 2) Think it is disgusting. If you are in the second category, that just means that you've never had the good stuff. I don't mean from a deli, and I don't mean from a plastic tub near the bologna. I'm talking about real, homemade pimento cheese. And, if you are in the first category, please let me introduce you!

We didn't eat a lot of lunch meat when I was a kid. There were basically 6 options for a sandwich:

~Pimento Cheese
~Banana
~PB & J
~Tomato (come on summer!)
~Pineapple
~Bologna (the kind with the red ring that you had to peel off)

My favorite was always Ma Ma Betty's Pimento Cheese. It is so doggone good...and I have just discovered that it is very hard to type with it on your fingers...

There are 3 ingredients.

One half-pound block cheddar cheese (I like extra-sharp.) ~ Please don't buy that pre-shredded mess for this. Did you know that the anti-caking agent they use in that stuff is powdered sawdust? Read the package...it says powdered cellulose...that's wood, baby. Buy a real block of cheese and grate it. Your biceps will thank you.

1/2 C. Mayonnaise ~ This is not the same as Miracle Whip...ick. Do not use a "dressing", use real mayo. A Southern Gal's preference is Duke's Mayo. I am very distressed to announce that the one local store that was carrying it here has stopped. I'm gonna have to put in an order with my folks when they come to visit again.

Small jar of pimentos ~ If you've never bought these, they can be sneaky little devils to locate in the store. They are always on the top shelf. (Hmmm...wonder why?) You can look near the pickles and olives. I have found them near canned tomatoes as well. If all else fails, just ask for them. I have yet to go to a store that didn't carry them.

Grate the cheese, drain the pimentos, and dump it all together. Mix it up and you're done. Some folks add pepper, but I don't. This will keep nicely in a covered container in the fridge for several days...I don't know the limit 'cause it never lasts long!

Slather it on some white bread, and you are golden. In the winter, I love these toasted under the broiler with tomato soup. (Dip the sandwich in the soup...it's a rule.) It is also yummy on Ritz Crackers.

Hope you enjoy it as much as I am...right...now!

**This post is linked to the Ultimate Recipe Swap at Life as Mom.

Corn Dog Muffins

2010-02-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

I ran across this super-awesome idea recently over at Family, Stamping and Food. I just had to try it out and share it with you. My boys love corn dogs, and they are gonna dive into these like there is no tomorrow.

I decided to make full-sized muffins and double the recipe so that I would have some left to flash-freeze for a quick lunch or snack. I used...

2 Boxes Jiffy Cornbread Mix
2/3 c. Milk
2 eggs
6 Ball Park Bun-Length Turkey Franks (halved lengthwise and then sliced)

Mix it all up and let it sit for a few minutes (this allows the cornbread to rise a little, making it crown better while baking). Grease a muffin pan with EVOO, fill, and bake at 400* for 18-20 minutes. My stoneware pan makes pretty big muffins, I got 14 out of the recipe. Regular muffin tins will probably give you 16-18.

All you need is ketchup and mustard for dipping...YUM!

Deals and Steals - Saving on Printer Ink

2010-02-23T10:34:00.006-05:00

If you are an online deal hound like me, you probably print a lot of grocery coupons. I was truly hesitant to do this at first, due to the expense of printer ink. Then I discovered that, as with most things, it is not necessary to pay full price for it!

First, let me say that I have a printer that is pretty easy on the ink. If yours is an ink guzzler, consider a change. Honestly, for the cost of new ink cartridges you can buy a good printer on sale (which will come with fresh ink!). Mine is an HP 3-in-1. I do not know if they are all easy on ink...so do your homework and read reviews before buying.

As for purchasing ink, I have discovered 123Inkjets.com. (Also known as LD Products.) I have purchased from this company several times, at a great price. They are reliable, quick to ship, and offer great deals. I have ordered both new and remanufatured cartridges, and both work great. I base my purchase on the current deals available.

123Inkjets offers a 16% cash back rebate if you shop through Ebates. (See description of Ebates below.) Let me give you an example of a deal that you can get right now.

My computer takes HP 21 cartridges. 123Inkjets' price is $13.99, if you purchase 3 or more you get a bulk discount of $13 each. Right now they have free shipping with a $55 order. So...
5 Cartridges x $13 = $65 shipped
Ebates rebate for this purchase = $10.40
Total Cost = $54.60

Compared to:

Walmart Price = $14.97 x 5 = $74.85 + tax (6%) = $79.34
If you order online, you can get 1% back through Ebates, but you will also have to pay shipping.

Walmart- $79.34
123 Inkjets- $54.60
Savings- $24.74
(That's almost like getting 2 free!)

Once you are on 123Inkjets' mailing list, you will receive emails with exclusive deals. Sometimes they offer additional percentages back through Ebates as well.
As will most things, stockpiling printer ink when you can catch a great deal will save you money.

I feel like this post is about as clear as mud...so if you have any questions, please let me know! *she grins sheepishly*

**Ebates is a cash back program for online orders. In less than a year I have earned $190 cash back on purchases through them. Yes it really works! They deposit my savings in my paypal account every few months. If you sign up through the link above, I will receive a $5 bonus to my account. You will receive a $5 bonus whether you use my link or not. If you prefer not to connect through me, simply visit www.ebates.com. If you ever make purchases online, you should be using a reputable cash back site.

**This is an unsolicited review of 123Inkjets. I have not been compensated for this post. My opinions are my own.

**This post is linked to Frugal Friday at Life As Mom. Stop by for other money-saving strategies!

His Ways are Certainly Not My Ways

2010-02-21T11:44:00.005-05:00

In my preceeding post I mentioned that I had a few extra minutes on a Sunday morning, which is rare. So, I took the time to put up a quick devotional. Hmmm...if I had only known.

You are probably as sick of hearing about the snow as I am of looking at it. ;) Unfortunately it plays a pretty pivotal role in this little story I'm going to share.

I was having a pretty good morning...the boys were fed and dressed early. I was wearing a fabulous new top that I found on clearance for nearly nothing. I was prepared to pinch-hit for a Sunday School Class, if needed. And, I was looking forward to participating in something called a Cardboard Testimony during our worship service this morning. If you've never seen one of these, you should. Check out the YouTube video at the end of this post.

Everything was going smoothly, then I had the nerve to try to drive up my driveway. You see, when we had 4 feet of snow on the ground, it was impossible to tell exactly WHERE the driveway was. When our neighbor dug us out, we had to guess at where the curves were. Now that 3 feet of that snow has melted, we've discovered that we missed the curves in two spots, which has resulted in this...

Now, let's talk about my mode of transportation. I have a Jeep. It is a soccer-mom Jeep, but a Jeep nonetheless. It is beyond my comprehension why, but my Jeep has only one drive wheel. This means that only one wheel is actually doing the work of propelling the vehicle forward or backward. It also means that if this one wheel gets in a bad spot, you are stuck. A patch of ice the size of a dinner plate can cause me problems. It hasn't happened often, because I'm careful about where I put that wheel...but it does happen.

Back to the story...while trying to navigate past the mud slicks in my driveway, I got over into the snow/ice pile that borders it...about 4 inches too far over...with my ONE drive wheel...can you see where this is headed?

I thought...I'm from the country...no big deal...I've got this. Well, after 10 minutes of digging out and trying various methods of escape, I decided to unload the boys, get them in the house, and change out of my very cool clearance top and heeled boots.

I finally got out. I did not have the presence of mind to take a picture while I was stuck. (I was too mad that I had gotten stuck in the first place.) It took about an hour of shoveling, maneuvering, and filling my mop bucket with gravel from the driveway to put under and behind the wheel that was stuck. And, I came out of it a filthy mess. But, I got out...all by myself. (Did I mention that my hubby is on a business trip?...and that dozens of people drove by and saw me working but not one offered to help?)

Of course, by the time I finished, it was too late to make it to church. For that matter, I was too much of a mess to go anywhere. And, because this is what I always do AFTER any kind of crisis or stressful situation, I had a good cry. (I don't know why I do this, you'd think I would cry during the problem instead of after it is solved.)

Because I believe that God is in control of all things, I know that my getting stuck and missing church today was within His control as well. Maybe my heart wasn't in the right place about the cardboard testimony, I don't know. He and I are gonna have to talk about that. I know this, He has some purpose in it. His ways are certainly not my ways.

I thought I would share my cardboard testimony with you. The first pic is the front side of the cardboard. It is supposed to reveal something from my life that I tried to control. The second pic is the back side. It reveals what happened when I let God have control. Watch the video, it will bless you.

Sunday Devotional

2010-02-21T08:19:00.006-05:00

I don't know if this is something that I will do consistently or not. Frankly, Sunday, the "day of rest", tends to be a little chaotic for my family. So goes the life of a family in ministry. But, this morning I have a few minutes.

I thought I would share a devotional that I wrote for an acquisition work that will be published this Spring. I am very excited about this for a couple of reasons.

1-The proceeds from the book will be going to fund scholarships for women who are seeking a seminary education.

2-It is my first time being published.

There were very specific formatting and word-count limitations, causing it to be short and to the point. As you can tell, I wrote on a subject that is dear to my heart.

Background Passage: Psalm 82

Focal Verse:
“Provide justice for the needy and the fatherless; uphold the rights of the oppressed and destitute.” (Psalm 82:3)

This Psalm is meant to warn national leaders of their responsibility to protect the weakest and most vulnerable among those in their charge. When coupled with James 1:27, it is clear that this same responsibility lies at the feet of every believer.

My husband and I have felt a calling to adoption for many years. Recently God made it clear that the time had come for us to begin that journey. As we began delving into the adoption process, we were surprised by the reactions of many of our Christian friends. All have been supportive, but few seem to realize the Scriptural mandate that we have been given as believers to be active in orphan care. Many have never considered their own position as a co-heir with Christ, and the beautiful reflection of that which we are given through adoption. Paul Pennington, in his blog, Hope for Orphans, stated, “Caring for orphans is God’s will for everybody. Adoption is not.” Consider what role God would have you take in the care of the weakest among us. Whether it is through foster care, adoption, advocacy, or financially supporting those who choose adoption, God’s calling is clear and unavoidable.

*The photo is my own, taken of the oldest standing church building in Antigua.

A Few of My Favorite Things ~ Coffee Can Hardware Stockpile

2010-02-20T08:36:00.004-05:00

I have learned much from my grandparents over the years. I was blessed to have both sets of my grandparents for my entire childhood and early marriage, only losing my dad's parents about 10 years ago. Some of the things that my grandparents taught me were intentional. Ma Ma Grace taught me all about plants, trees and birds. We went for walks every day that we were together, I learned much about the world around me as we followed that familiar path around her house.

Some things they taught me by example. Many of my penny-pinching ways were inherited through observation of careful frugality in both grandparent's households. Ma Ma Betty taught me to never throw anything useful away. Granted, I struggle with when something has lost its usefulness, sometimes (Hi, My name is Amy....and I am a packrat). But, this practice has often served me well.

For as long as I can remember, Ma Ma Betty had a coffee can full of nuts, bolts, washers and screws in her laundry room. As a child I spent hours digging around in that can, sorting and stacking the treasures inside. I still remember a few of the specific things that were always there...a roll of soldering wire, a rubber-tipped doorstop, those plastic clips that are used to hang un-framed mirrors on the wall...

When I started housekeeping, I went to the grocery store and bought a can of coffee...not for the coffee, but for the can. (I was 20, I didn't really like coffee back then...what was I thinking?) I don't remember what I did with the coffee, but I washed out the can and started throwing in the leftover hardware from various projects...extra nails from hanging curtain rods, extra screws from a ceiling fan kit, extra cup-hooks from my curtain tie-backs.

After over 15 years, the can has gotten pretty doggone full. I cannot tell you how many times I have fixed something, hung something, or finished a project by digging through that can. I sincerely believe it has saved me hundreds of dollars in last-minute trips to the store. I cannot remember the last time that I needed a piece of hardware and didn't find just the thing in my coffee can...it is one of my favorite things!

Freebie Friday ~ 12 Available Freebies

2010-02-19T15:14:00.005-05:00

Now that our airport is beginning to allow US Postal Service and UPS flights to land again (another crazy after-affect from the snow apocalypse)...I am getting freebies in the mail again...woohoo. Well, for that matter, I'm getting mail again...woohoo. Except for the bills...booo.

Since it has all been piling up somewhere, it has been a good week. Everything here was free. I'll post links to the stuff that is still available. As always, at the bottom of the post I will list the new online freebies that I have come across. If you want opening your mailbox to be a fun surprise every day, make sure you keep requesting goodies. Companies want to give this stuff away, you just have to ask for it!

Rebates:

~$11.99 from Rite Aid Single Check Rebates

~$35 from Proctor & Gamble/CVS promotion

My drugstore game plans kept falling apart this week ('sokay...it happens). So, there isn't much here. but, I did get:

~1 Aussie Hairspray

~2 Covergirl Pressed Powders

In the mail:

~Amazon $10 Gift Card (Coinstar Promotion late 2009)

~Uniball Jetstream Pen w/coupon. Limited number available at noon daily HERE. (These go REALLY fast!)

~Coupon for FREE full-size Excedrin that I told you about HERE. (This is still available, and come very quickly!)

~Gooseberry Patch Recipe Book that I told you about HERE.

~Breathe Right Strips w/coupon.

~Celestial Seaoning Green Tea Sample availble on Facebook after taking quiz HERE.

~Kleenex Sample

~6 Nescafe Sticks w/coupon available HERE.

~Suncrystals Sample available HERE.

~Full Size Power Bar Energy Gel Blasts w/coupons that I told you about HERE. (Still available.)

~$17 Conagra Coupon Book

~$15 P&G Coupon Book

~2 Kotex 4-Pad Samples w/coupons available HERE and HERE.

~Weight Watchers Magazine

~Family Circle Magazine

~Costco Insulated Grocery Bag

~P&G Olympic Pin (Came with $35 P&G Rebate Visa)

~Mariani Dried Plums Sample

New Online Freebies:

Rouge Magazine from Proctor & Gamble is a fashion and beauty mag with coupons. A free subscription is available HERE.

Burt's Bees is making toothpaste now. Request a sample HERE.

Request a free sample from OB Tampons HERE.

Conversation Heart Cupcakes

2010-02-18T08:08:00.005-05:00

I know that this post is a little delayed...but the Valentine's Day parties have been delayed due to recent meteorological events. As a matter of fact, Valentine's Day was pretty much skipped here. In one of my local stores yesterday, I found the cashier sitting on the floor surrounded by dozens of deflated Mylar Valentine's balloons. There were still over a hundred inflated, suspended over her head. She said that they were trying to salvage them for next year. It has been interesting to see some of the strange after-effects of the storms.

But, I digress. I wanted to show you the cupcakes that I made for my preschooler's Valentine's party today. They aren't fancy, but these kids aren't real fans of fancy. I think they turned out kinda cute. You need three shades of pastel icing, and red. I recommend waiting on applying the wording until just before they are served. Red icing has a tendency to bleed if it sits overnight.

Happy Valentine's Day...real late. Love Y'all!

Almost Wordless Wednesday ~ Making a Molehill Out of a Mountain

2010-02-17T05:00:00.002-05:00

I have concluded through thorough scientific investigation that combining obscene amounts of snow with unwashed laundry creates a chemical reaction that is the catalyst for a massive explosion of growth within said laundry.

Either that, or the winter blahs have negatively affected my initiative to do laundry. Either way, I need to go deconstruct Mt. Fuji, here...or, my family is gonna have to go around naked.

*Wink*

Candy Topiary or Sundae ~ A Tutorial

2010-02-16T13:51:00.008-05:00

A friend once taught me this, and I thought you might enjoy seeing the process. It is SUPER easy, and a great, inexpensive craft/gift. Once you have the supplies, it might take 10 minutes, maybe...if you drag your feet about it :)

I have used these as:
~Centerpieces (See above, used at a variety show, guests loved snacking on them during the show.)
~Teacher Gifts
~Just Because Gifts
~Thank You for a great Doctor, Hairstylist, etc.

Now that I think of it, what a fun Hostess Gift, or for a friend's birthday at the office.

Here is what you will need:
Straight Pins, Styrofoam ball (this one is 4 inches), Sundae Glass, Mini Candy Bars (4" ball requires @50 minis, or 1 10oz bag.)

First, plop the ball on top of the dish (whew...are you worn out, yet?)

Next, push a pin through the top right corner of the candy wrapper. (Careful, I stabbed myself at least half a dozen times...)

Then stick it in the foam ball 1/4" above where it is resting on the glass.

Please don't measure...really, resist the temptation! It's not that complicated!

Repeat all the way around.

Follow that with a second row 1/2" higher, staggering the pin placement with the row below. That's just to cover up the gaps.

Continue circling the ball until it is completely covered. This is very forgiving, if you've got a gap, move the pin over a bit.

This little project isn't hard, but if you can do it without bleeding, you are more coordinated than me. It's a good thing I'm not a seamstress. "Here you go, Betty Sue, I've hemmed your wedding gown, sorry about the blood stains..."

You can fill the base with candy or paper shreds if you like, you can also stick a straw in it for fun. I would get a pretty, fancy, bendy one...not this cheapo thing that I just grabbed from the kitchen.

This one is done all in silver with 3 Musketeers Minis. Around Easter you can find the minis in metallic pastels, like the topiary style above. I used a plain glass vase for it. A candlestick would work as well. Use your imagination! One of these days, I'm gonna buy the biggest foam ball I can find and make a massive one, just for the fun of it...but not until I figure out what to do with it afterward...hmmm...

I bought the supplies for this project at stuff mart for about $6.50. Thrift stores are a great source for bases, and dollar stores often carry the foam balls. I think it could be pulled off for under $5 with coupons and a little planning.

OOooo, I just had another idea...how about clustering several of the topiary style at varying heights, with each one a different solid color...something like this.

I think I saw someone stocking Easter Candy at the store earlier...I've gotta get more candy!

A Tribute to My Valentine

2010-02-14T05:00:00.000-05:00

When I consider the directions that my life could have gone, in fact...how it almost went...I am in awe of where I am right now.

I met my husband when I was 12. He was 14, and he thought I was a little kid. We were friends for many years, seeing each other only occassionally, until I was 18. Suddenly the age difference (all two years of it) wasn't such a big deal to him any more. We started dating a few months after I graduated.

We married days after I turned 20. That was 15 years ago. It is hard to believe that it has been that long. And yet, so many things have happened over those years.

He is my best friend...

My heart still flutters when he puts on cowboy boots...

He is an amazing father...

He sings beautifully, I love his voice...

He sacrifices much to care for our family...

He loves God first and me second, for this I am thankful...

I want to share an example of how amazing he is. In the past week he has spent countless hours working in blizzard conditions to keep our roof cleaned off so there would be no risk of collapse, digging out the heat pump so that it would keep working, and clearing the driveway so that we could get out in an emergency.

And yet, on his first opportunity to get out of the house after the storms passed, he brought me these "to remind me that Spring is on the way."

I am truly blessed, I love you Sweetheart!

Freebie Friday...Err, Saturday

2010-02-13T09:30:00.011-05:00

I intentionally waited an extra day to post freebies this week. See, the snow has made it very difficult to get out to run deals. And, I have only had mail delivery two times this week. I thought by holding out for one more day I might have more to show for the week. But, alas, the pickings are pretty slim. Find my favorite online freebies below.

Here are my freebies in all their glory...

I am pretty excited that I was able to get 5 minutes at CVS to get toothpaste and toothbrushes.

In the mail I received a Cooking With Stock booklet and a Love Letter Kit (just in time for V-day!)

FREE ONLINE GOODIES

Excedrin is giving away a FREE FULL-SIZE Sample with survey HERE. The survey is one question. Hint-They are giving the freebie away to people who do not usually use their product.

Focus on the Family is offering a no-strings attached, free, 6 month subscription to Thriving Family Magazine HERE. I am really excited to get this one.

Home Made Simple has another $30 coupon book available HERE. These are fabulous, high value coupons!

Sam's Club is giving away samples of Emergen-C HERE.

Choose your sample of Aveeno Haircare HERE. This is one of my favored shampoos.

Teecino Herbal Caffeine-Free Coffee is offering a free sample when you subscribe to their newsletter HERE. I've never tried this one, but I've read good things from other bloggers.

Have Fun!!! Opening my mailbox (when the mail is running!) is like a little bit of Christmas every day. =D

Deals and Steals-$10 off a $10 purchase at JC Penny!

2010-02-12T16:59:00.004-05:00

I am dreaming of Summertime, baby! I just picked up this CUTE cotton sundress at the JC Penny Outlet. Retail on this dress was originally $60. I got it for $9.48, shipped. I cannot wait to break out the sandals and THIS DRESS! Use coupon code TEN4YOU at checkout for $10 off of your purchase (Minimum $10 order). The best deals are available at the Outlet, HERE. But, you can use the code on regularly priced items as well. Have Fun!

I made my purchase throughEbatesto receive and additional 3% cash back on my order!

**Ebates is a cash back program for online orders. In less than a year I have earned $190 cash back on purchases through them. Yes it really works! They deposit my savings in my paypal account every few months. If you sign up through the link above, I will receive a $5 bonus to my account. You will receive a $5 bonus whether you use my link or not. If you prefer not to connect through me, simply visit www.ebates.com. If you ever make purchases online, you should be using a reputable cash back site.

Thanks, Freebies 4 Mom!

Where Are You on the Frugal Map?

2010-02-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

Another blogger has created a fantastic online resource for those of us looking to save a buck. Bargain Briana has created the Frugal Map. It is a clickable resource by which you can locate the bloggers who are posting deals in your state. I think it is a fabulous creation! Check it out, and if you are a bargain blogger, submit your site to Briana so that you too can be on the Frugal Map! Be advised, she has hundreds of submissions, so it will take some time.

The VALUE of Bargain Preparedness

2010-02-11T05:00:00.004-05:00

I very rarely visit a mall. The closest malls are 25 miles away, in three different directions. But, recently I had the opportunity to get out of the house during the lull between two epic snowstorms...and I took it! Very little was open other than the mall, so that is where we landed.

In light of the rarity of mall trips, it would be easy for me to just ignore the current deals of the mall store variety. Bargain Preparedness (he he...I like that term, I think I just made it up !) has allowed me to make the most of these trips. There are a few stores that I always check when I am in the vicinity. One of these is Bath and Body Works, it is my non-indulgent indulgence (because I NEVER pay full price). Another of my favorites is The Children's Place. I have found that their clothes hold up extremely well, many pieces surviving both of my boys.

During my snow escape I scored great deals in both stores, because I made sure to have current coupons for the available mall stores in my wallet before leaving home.

Here are my B&BW finds:
3-Aromatherapy Hand Soaps - Retail $6 each, Sale B2G1 Free
2-Aromatherapy Candles - Retail $9.50 each, Sale 2 for $10
1-Japanese Cherry Blossom Bubble Bath - Retail $10.50
Full Retail Price + Tax = $50.35
With Sales & $10 off $30 Purchase Coupon = $23.85 (I paid for part of this with a $10gift card that I got for Christmas. I've been saving it to stack with a great deal.)
Savings = 53%, after gift card = 74%

**I also came out of the store with another $10 off $30 purchase coupon and a Spend $10 Get Signature Item (up to $12) Free coupon.

Here are my TCP finds:
3 Winter Hats - Retail $6.50 each, Sale .99
3 Winter Gloves - Retail $6.50 each, Sale .99
5 Shirts/Pants - Retail $8.50-$12.50 each, Sale $3.99
4 Shirts/Pants - Retail $8.50-$12.50 each, Sale $2.99
Full Retail Price + Tax = $147.34
With Sales & 15% off Coupon = $34.10 ($2.27 each)
Savings = 72%

Trust me, I've learned to be prepared the hard way. I cannot tell you how many times I have left home unprepared and missed out on a great deal.

I think the Boy Scouts are onto something with that Motto of theirs, don't you!

This post is linked to Frugal Friday at Life as Mom.

Snow Apocalypse Totals

2010-02-11T04:00:00.001-05:00

It is finally over! WBAL reported this morning that our total for new snow is 24". That puts our total for the week at 54", and for the season at 87". We have broken every record that has ever been set since records began to be kept in 1888.

Here are pictures of the same spot to compare from Friday afternoon and then this morning.

Here is our wonderful neighbor on his way to dig us out.

This is my husband on the scraper that is usually sufficient to take care of our snow around here.

This is what the State is using to scrape our road.

And this is me in my ski jacket from 1980 something (hey, its warm and waterproof), standing in almost waist-high snow. No this is not a drift (there is one rising behind me), it is pretty level ground...and my feet were not all the way through to the grass.

The weatherman said something really vulgar last night. I'm so aghast that I almost can't type the words...MORE SNOW ON TUESDAY....

Did you know that they don't have enough snow in Vancouver for the Winter Olympics? It is too warm to manufacture it, too. They are hauling it in from higher elevations. I have another solution. They can have all of mine...All of it...Every last flake.

And for the record...If one more Southern friend tells me they are jealous and they wish they had all this snow....I'm gonna have a hissy fit. Nobody wants this much snow, nobody that has actually lived in it. It is dangerous, it is a pain, and it is going to cause flooding when it melts. Whew...I'm done, I've really been needing to get that off my chest. **she daintily steps down from her soap box**

Does anybody know Punxtawney Phil's address? I'm goin' groundhog hunting now.

Snow Apocalypse....Again!

2010-02-10T16:48:00.006-05:00

The past five days have been truly hard to comprehend. I told you about Snow Apocalypse Part 1 HERE. Well, for the first time in recorded history, the Mid-Atlantic region has been hit with two blizzards in one week. Have I mentioned how rare blizzard conditions are here?

Here is a photo of the wheelbarrow that I used for perspective in the Storm #1, the photo was taken yesterday before Storm #2 hit. We've had 3-4 inches of melting/settling.

Here is the exact same shot now, at 5:30 pm. It is under there, I promise.

We had 30 inches of snow on the ground from the first storm, at this point we have 20inches of new snow. It is supposed to continue until 10:00 tonight. The Weather Channel is comparing Storm #2 to a Category 1 hurricane. Over 4 feet of snow has fallen in one week. How crazy is this?

So, here I sit buried in snow...in a place that usually sees 11 inches annually. And, guess what...more snow on Monday! I've been transported to Siberia! So, I've decided to hibernate. See you in May! ;)

I will post one more photo in the morning along with a final accumulation total.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Scrat's Southern Cousin

2010-02-10T12:02:00.005-05:00

They say that necessity breeds invention....

This squirrel is going to great lengths for a snack during the Snow Apocalypse :D

*This post is linked to Wordless Wedenesday at Mama Cheaps and 5 Minutes for Mom!

Deals and Steals-$3 Gevalia Coffee

2010-02-10T05:00:00.002-05:00

You are probably familiar with Gevalia Coffee. They have a variety of "get to know us" deals available. When you sign up for this deal, you are signing up to receive a shipment of their coffee every six weeks. BUT, THERE IS NO OBLIGATION. You can order the deal and then cancel. I have ordered mine, but have not received it yet. Several bloggers that I follow have ordered from Gevalia and cancelled with no problems. They say that the operators are very polite and there is no hassle.

That said, Gevalia makes fabulous coffee. I had the mocha at a friend's house recently, and it was amazing. Gevalia also allows you to customize your delivery, which is nice. It appears that you can spread it out more if you like. For this special deal you will receive 3 full-sized boxes of their yummy coffee or tea, your choice of flavor assortment. You will also receive a travel coffee mug. All of this comes to you for $3, shipped! It really is a great deal. If you order via Ebates, you will receive $5 cash back on your order (yep, it's a money maker). And, if you are a member of Upromise, you can receive $4 in your account for your order. Try this yummy coffee deal HERE.

**Ebates is a cash back program for online orders. In less than a year I have earned $190 cash back on purchases through them. Yes it really works! They deposit my savings in my paypal account every few months. If you sign up through the link above, I will receive a $5 bonus to my account. You will receive a $5 bonus whether you use my link or not. If you prefer not to connect through me, simply visit www.ebates.com. If you ever make purchases online, you should be using a reputable cash back site.

**Upromise is similar to Ebates, but instead of receiving the cash it goes into an account for your child's college fund. There are a variety of ways to add to your Upromise account through online purchases, your grocery and drugstore loyalty cards, even by registering your credit cards. Certain eligible purchases will earn money back for your child's (or your own) education.

Southern Charm~Calling Cards

2010-02-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

Many people speak of the charm of Southern culture. Often upon hearing my accent (which is pretty noticeable in these parts), folks will tell me about their experiences with Southern hospitality. They also share with me their dreams of retiring one day to North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia or Florida. As is true with so many places in this wonderful country, the South has some truly endearing qualities.

I am starting a new series with the intent of highlighting some of the nuances of Southern culture that lend themselves to the charm that seems to catch the attention of so many. I hope it will be fun for you. As I ponder the place where I was raised, courted and wed, I know it will be fun for me.

Calling Cards are beginning to make a comeback these days. In the old South, they were used as a means of introduction, to leave notice that you had stopped by for a visit (and missed the homeowner), as an invitation to visit, or as a means of future communication. You can read of the use of calling cards in books like Gone With the Wind and Charleston.

Nowadays calling cards are sometimes referred to as Mommy Cards, often used by moms to arrange play dates. I have personally carried some form of calling card around with me for about 10 years. Though I have not been in business for most of those years, it has always been nice to be able to hand someone my contact information via a neatly printed card rather than scrawling it on the back of a receipt or gum wrapper.

Every calling card that I have ever carried has come from Vistaprint. Why? Well, because they are free (except for shipping). And, if you can get it for free...why would you pay for it, for heaven's sake? Two hundred fifty cards will cost about $5 for shipping. They say delivery will take 3 weeks, but my orders generally come in two.

Now, a word about Vistaprint. They offer these wonderful freebies with the same ulterior motive of a grocery store offering you a loss leader. They hope you will buy something else while you are there. And, accordingly, when you go to check out they will offer you many pages of add-on items. If you want to order these things, go for it. But, it is not necessary at all. Just keep clicking through until it allows you to check out. Double check your order total to make sure that it is only for shipping, and you are golden. I have also had offers pop up after my transaction is complete. I ALWAYS ignore these, sometimes they are second-party offers. As long as you don't get sidetracked by the carrots that they dangle, you can get a great quality product for a steal. Go HERE to check out their selection of free cards.

Also, you can place your order through Ebates for 5% cash back. Some companies will give you cash back on shipping costs, and some will not. It never hurts to try!

**Ebates is a cash back program for online orders. In less than a year I have earned $190 cash back on purchases through them. Yes it really works! They deposit my savings in my paypal account every few months. If you sign up through the link above, I will receive a $5 bonus to my account. You will receive a $5 bonus whether you use my link or not. If you prefer not to connect through me, simply visit www.ebates.com. If you ever make purchases online, you should be using a reputable cash back site.

Deals and Steals-Macy's Sweaters Super Cheap

2010-02-08T09:40:00.003-05:00

I just picked up this cute sweater in black from Macy's online for $7.99, shipped. Retail on this one is $44. There is also a special shipping price of 99 cents if you enter the code 99cents at checkout. Go HERE to see the selection. Sizes are limited, but I saw sweaters S-XL in different styles. I hope you find a steal!

Bakerella's Peach Crunch Cake

2010-02-08T05:00:00.005-05:00

I love peaches. In fact I am a peach snob. I won't buy them in the grocery store. They must come from a peach shed. (It's a Southern thing, I'll tell you about it in a new series called Southern Charm sometime soon.) Once a year, in late July, there is a variety of peach available in South Carolina called the Freestone. It is called this because you can cut the peach in half and pop the stone out with your fingers. This was the variety of peach in Eden, I am sure of it. The smell alone makes my mouth water.

Alas, it is not late July, and this is not South Carolina. It is early February and there is an ungodly amount of snow on the ground outside.

A few weeks ago, I noticed a recipe on Bakerella's blog for a peach crunch cake. (If you don't know her, get to know her...she is fabulous!) This recipe is different from any I've seen. It calls for canned peaches, which I can deal with for baking. It looked so amazing that I just had to try it. I cannot wait to see how it turns out with a few of my beloved Freestones this summer!

Give it a try, you will not be disappointed!

Bakerella's Peach Crunch Cake

24.5 oz peaches in light syrup (she used jarred, I used 2 cans)
1 yellow cake mix
1 stick butter, cut into 16 even slices
1 c. brown sugar
1/2 c finely chopped nuts

Dump the peaches into a 9X13 dish (including syrup). Cut the peaches in half and distribute them evenly. Dump the cake mix on top and spread it evenly. Place the butter pats, spaced evenly, on top. Sprinkle on the brown sugar. Sprinkle on the chopped nuts. Bake at 350* for 40 minutes.

I wish I had a Smell-O-Blog so that you could get a whiff of what is coming from my oven right now...MMMmmmm.

If you want to see Bakerella's full tutorial for this recipe, you can check it out HERE.

*This post is linked to the Ultimate Recipe Swap at Life as Mom...check it out!

Weekly Freebies

2010-02-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

Okay, confession time. I have been so wrapped up in apocalypse preparations, apocalypse watching, and recuperating from Strep that I sort of forgot about Freebie Friday. Personally, I got a tremendous amount of stuff for free this week. Seeing as how I am two days late with the report, I'm not gonna go through the details. However, I will share my favorite Internet freebies for the week. I hope you find something interesting!

Walmart is offering a great coupon book from Conagra (Peter Pan, Rotel, Hunts, etc.) You can pick it up HERE.

Okay, this one is kind of hidden. You can order at least one, and possible three of the same coupon books from Home Made Simple HERE. Click on each of the coupon offers to be taken to a link to register for the booklet. They appear identical, but do not indicate that "you have already registered for this offer". All three will only take a minute, it is worth a try. And, these are usually high value coupons for items like Cascade. Each coupon booklet has a value of $30.

Surf is offering a free Thingamajig HERE. Choose your laundry dispenser: liquid, powder, or tablets.

Request your Stayfree sample HERE.

Send a well-wish ecard to as many friends as you like and they will receive two samples of Yogi tea. Choose your flavor HERE.

Choose your sample of a hair product from Nick Chavez's line HERE.

Choose your sample of Redken Style Connection HERE.

Pick up a free sample of Arm and Hammer Toothpaste HERE. Did your mom teach you to brush your teeth with baking soda to whiten them? Mine did!

Don't forget to look for freebies this week...they are all around us!

Snow Apocalypse Update~Updated Again

2010-02-06T12:57:00.005-05:00

UPDATE-Final Totals-30 inches

Thought I would give y'all an update. We have over 2 feet now, and the system has stalled over us. The heavy snow that was supposed to end around noon is now predicted to continue until 10 PM. I expect there to be easily 3 feet by the time it ends. I took a photo of a wheelbarrow in my front flower bed as the storm was beginning, and then again about an hour ago, just for perspective. The time lapse between the two pics is 20 hours.

Guess what? We are supposed to get more on Tuesday...

Our average annual snowfall in this part of Maryland is 10-11 inches. So far we have had 65 inches. And there will be more...

Did I mention that I'm from the South?

Armed for the Snow Apocalypse...

2010-02-05T17:20:00.014-05:00

Snow Apocalypse? Yep, that's what they were calling it on the radio this morning. You know the monster snow storm, the historic, crippling one that has been on the news this week? Well, I am sitting right in the middle of it's path. That book I read a couple of months ago, Whistling Dixie in a Nor'easter, is ringing pretty true right now.

I'm armed and ready...

~Power Outage?
Check! I have water (When you are on a well, no power means no water.), a propane heater, candles, flashlights and extra batteries on the ready. Oh, and the bathtub is filled with water, too so that we can flush if we lose power. Of course, we can always melt snow for that, too. You see, the emergency preparedness officials around here warned us that:
"A severe winter storm, with near blizzard conditions, is forecast to hit (the region) Friday Feb 5 through Saturday Feb 6. Be prepared to shelter in place for 3 to 5 days. Please stay off the roads. Snow crews will plow primary and secondary roads first for emergency vehicles. It may take 36-48 hours after the snow stops before County plows can get to residential streets. Removal and treatment may take several days."

~Food?
Check! I've got a stockpile, baby!

~Entertainment?
Check! I'm armed with a couple of new movies and some cool new Crayola Window FX markers(for drawing on windows, that should keep them busy for a while). In a day or two, I am gonna need to have a few tricks up my sleeve...see it's pretty hard for a four year old to play in over two feet of snow. Cabin fever will surely set in by Monday.

I also have the fixin's on hand for these Snowman Cookies from Stacy's Sweet Shop, which I have been dying to try out. I think the boys will love making them.

~Super Bowl?
Check! My oldest is pretty bummed about the timing of this storm, because we were supposed to do the Super Bowl at his best buddy's house. I can't make up for that loss, but I have a few tricks up my sleeve for some yummy snacks. I might even dig out some party plates and cups (can you use last year's Valentine's leftovers for the Superbowl? Hmmm...maybe not.)

~Antibiotics?
Check! Wait...what? I woke up with the tell-tale signs of strep throat this morning. Not good when an apocalyptic snow storm is headed for your house. God worked a true miracle and I was able to see my doctor and get a prescription for a Z-pack before it hit. Don't tell my pharmacist, but I would have paid a lot more for those meds than he charged me. There are rare times when frugal goes out the window ;)

So, I am armed and ready. While it piles up outside I'm gonna utilize my arsenal, blog, cook, and organize coupons. How are you spending the weekend?

*This post is linked to Bringing Moms Together's Tackle It Tuesday.

Buttermilk Biscuits ~ Southern Style

2010-02-03T16:47:00.022-05:00

I have not been able to conjur up a good batch of biscuits since I moved North, until recently. Well, let me tell you,

All I ever needed to know about ~~life~~ biscuits, I learned from my momma and Alton Brown!

Did you know that there is Yankee flour and Southern flour? I didn't! Southern flour is better suited for biscuits, because biscuits are a Southern food...imagine that! Mr. Brown explains the scientific reason behind this in his Good Eats episode, The Dough Also Rises. So, before telling you how to make fab biscuits, let me stress the importance of looking at the flour sack to see where it was produced. Find something from Tennessee, North Carolina...you get the picture.

Also, please use real buttermilk. Turning regular milk with vinegar just doesn't work as well. And, for heaven's sake, don't use regular milk straight up! Buttermilk lasts FOREVER in the fridge, and is good for so many things...cornbread...cakes....

I have adapted many of Mr. Brown's tips into my biscuit making. Here are the results....YUM!

Ingredients:
2 cups SOUTHERN self-rising flour
2 T butter
2 T shortening
1 cup buttermilk

(Mr. Brown contends that it is better to use all-purpose flour along with 4 tsp. baking powder, 1/4 tsp. baking soda, and 3/4 tsp. salt. Unfortunately, I have not been able to find Southern all-purpose flour here. So, I'm making-do with self-rising.)

Preheat oven to 450*.

Lightly grease a shiny metal pan with shortening.

Add flour to a bowl (along with baking powder, baking soda and salt if you're using all-purpose flour).

Add butter and shortening.

Using a pastry blender, 2 forks, or your fingers cut the butter and shortening into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.

Make a well in the center and pour in your real, bonafide buttermilk.

Stir it all up until it holds together, but not a second more. The more you work the dough, the tougher your bisciuts will be.

Flour some wax paper and turn the dough out on to it. Notice the extra flour on the sides, there. Well, you're gonna use that. Pick up the edges of the wax paper and bring them together, causing that flour to cover the top of your dough. Use the wax paper to pull the dough together. Release the wax paper and fold the dough onto itself several times.

Do this as little as possible, but until it is relatively smooth.

Now it is time to pat it out. Use a rolling pin if you must, but in my opinion it is just a waste of time and gives you something else to wash. (Save the rolling pin for pie crusts.) Besides, if your biscuits are too perfect someone is liable to accuse you of getting them from a tube! Pat the dough out evenly with your hands until it is about an inch thick.

Now it is time to cut. I do not like my cutter, I want one that is open in back. I feel like this one is pressing down on the top of the biscuit. But, for now it is what I have. Push straight down, do not twist as you cut. I sometimes find it easier to peel away the scrap before lifting the cutter, as you see here, in order to pick up the cut biscuit.

Place gently on pan, lightly touching on the sides. Mr. Brown says it is important to gently mash your thumb into the center so that they will rise flat, instead of domed. Whatever... I just think it is fun to mark them. If they all have my thumbprint in them, then they are all mine to eat...right?

Baking times vary based on your oven. Mine is perfect at 18 minutes. Start watching them at 15. They should be golden on top. ( I let these go just a minute or two too long...they're still yummy, though!)

Now, while they're still hot, cut one open and put a pat of butter and a spoonful of brown sugar inside...then close it up and give it a few seconds to melt together. Make sure your momma is nowhere close, because it's gonna make you want to smack her!

Grocery Stockpiling~Lessons Learned

2010-02-02T21:41:00.013-05:00

I have always been a couponer, to some degree. Thanks to some great blogs like Southern Savers, I am learning to be an Xtreme Couponer. I just finished tallying my January shopping totals, spending $440 on $1235 worth of grocery and personal care items over the 5-week month. That is an average of less than $90 a week, and a savings of 64%. Now, I do not intend to spend that much per week in the future. My January purchases have been replenishing my reserves. (We travel for an extended period during the holidays, so I intentionally cleaned out my pantry and freezer beforehand, only buying perishables for the entire month of December.)

But, I have gone beyond replenishing what I had. I have a true stockpile for the first time ever. I have all of the personal care, laundry detergent, dish detergent, and other cleaners that I need for the next 6-12 months. I also have a 2-3 month supply of most of our staple food items, including meat.

Here are some things that I have learned in the past month:

1. Xtreme Couponing = Stockpiling. It is the only way to truly get the best value out of your money.

2. Stockpiling creates a ready environment for giving. If I am aware of a need, I can meet it. I simply go shopping in my stockpile.

3. Many of the things that I bring home for free or nearly free are purchased at full price by other people in the same store, on the same day. (This was a true revelation.)

4. I don't have to worry about emergencies. If I get sick or there is a snowstorm (like now), we have all that we need in the house to get us through it.

5. It is ridiculous to pay $2.69 for a jar of peanut butter weekly when I can buy six now at $.99, and do the same thing again, six weeks from now. (Think about it, Full price- $2.69 x 6 = $16.14. Xtreme Couponing price- $.99 x 6 = $5.94. That's a savings of $10.20, Now, think about saving that much for every staple grocery item.)

6. The money that I save gives me freedom for little splurges, to save up for something special, or to bless someone else. In other words, I've become a better steward of what God has given me.

7. Shopping three stores with a plan is quicker and cheaper than shopping one with no plan. Yesterday, I hit 4 stores in 1 hour, 15 minutes. I spent $40 on $160 worth of merchandise.

8. People look at me funny when I walk through a store with a big ol' coupon binder. Some come back and ask me how it works ;)

9. Some cashiers will actually celebrate with me when I save 80% on an order, some will not.

10. If I am already getting a huge discount on an order, I usually don't get picky over a small coupon dispute, although I may ask for the item to be removed from my order. I would rather keep a great rapport with my stores than become known as that "Pushy Coupon Lady".

11. The amount of stuff that I can bring home FOR FREE is truly astounding.

12. Just for kicks, I kept up with the number of coupons that I used. 241 Coupons! (I know, I'm a nerd for keeping up with it.) And I used to think that store brands were a better buy, HA!

I'm certainly not a pro, yet. My coupon filing system still needs tweaking. But, overall I am very pleased with where all of this is heading. Everyone does it a little differently, and that is okay. The key is to find your own system and go with it.

This post is linked to Frugal Friday at Life as Mom.

Coupon Database from Deal Seeking Mom

2010-02-01T05:00:00.003-05:00

I have stumbled upon the coolest tool ever. Deal Seeking Mom has a coupon database. It is a listing of all the current coupons available. And, it can be sorted and filtered in numerous ways. I use it when I need a particular item right away but do not have a coupon on hand for it. I can go to the database, select a brand name, and press "filter". It brings up a listing of all coupons for that brand, where they can be found, and includes the link if they are printable. Find the database HERE.

Deal Seeking Mom...You Rock!

Running Totals~There's Nothing to Fear in a Running Store

2010-01-31T05:00:00.004-05:00

Okay, accountability time. I ran 147 minutes this week. I'm not counting miles yet, because I am so slow right now that the mileage would be pretty sad. The miles don't matter right now, anyway. If you wonder why I'm telling you this, I'm training for a Half Marathon.

Running is a great sport because it is inexpensive and portable. The only equipment that you need is a pair of good shoes, a watch that will track your time and a running bra (if you are a chick, of course). It is easy to throw your running shoes in a bag when you travel. The watch and bra can come from stuff mart, to start out. If you get serious, you can upgrade. I have upgraded in the bra department but, I am still using the $25 Timex that I bought 4 years ago when I started.

Shoes are another story. Buying $40 Nike running shoes off of a shoe store rack, and then trying to really run in them is like taking a Little Tikes bat to a big league baseball game. The result will be painful. But, expensive running shoes can also cause injuries, if they are not the right shoes for you. I ran my first half-marathon in a $90 pair of Asics. (Ask me how many times in my life I have paid that much for a pair of shoes!) Throughout my training I had knee problems. After the race I had a groin issue for months. Then I learned that we had a new running store in town with computer analysis and professional fittings.

I have to tell you that even after running a half-marathon, I was intimidated to walk into this store. I don't know what I expected to be going on in there, but I felt like I surely would not belong. I finally got up the nerve to go in, and they were so nice. They analyzed my running gait on a computerized treadmill. They also analyzed my footprint and my pronation (the degree to which your footfall leans left or right), they combined this information to determine the type of shoe that is best for me. I learned that I had been running in a stability shoe when I needed a cushioning shoe. Who knew this kind of technology went into a shoe? They showed me shoes from several companies at a range of prices, and I chose a great pair of Asics. I have been training in this new model and have had no knee or groin issues.

I highly recommend visiting a specialty running store to be professionally fitted. Running is great exercise, but it is also very demanding on the body. The right shoe can minimize the impact and make running a much more pleasant experience. Visit Road Runner Sports or Marathon Rookie to find a specialty running store in your area.

The World's Easiest Baked Tilapia

2010-01-30T05:00:00.001-05:00

I took a notion to try something a little different with my fish once. This is the result. It isn't fancy, and I doubt it will ever win an award. But, it is quick and tasty. And, I always have the ingredients on hand.

This is my stoneware bar pan. I love it very much. We have been together for 8 years now. When we met, my bar pan was very pale and rough around the edges. Now, over time, it has become seasoned almost to perfection. If you've never cooked with stoneware, you should try it. Limiting stoneware use to making pizza is just plain silly. If I ever break this pan I will cry...real tears. You can get your own from Pampered Chef. The seasoning takes time, but it becomes so wonderful.

So, rinse your Tilapia fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel...the drying is important. Place them on a baking pan. If you don't have stoneware, metal will do but you might spritz it with cooking spray first. And watch your time, it may cook just a couple of minutes more quickly.

The next step is pretty simple. Choose a few spices and sprinkle on your fillets. I just do the top, top and bottom can make the flavor pretty intense. I use Paprika, Fresh Ground Pepper, and Cavendar's Greek Seasoning. I devoted a full post to Cavendar's HERE, it is one of my favorite things.

Then, pop it into a 350* oven for 18-20 minutes, until the fish is flaky. It should look something like this. Easy as can be!

*This recipe is included at the Ultimate Recipe Swap over at Life As Mom.

Freebie Friday

2010-01-29T08:51:00.015-05:00

It has been a good shopping week in my neck of the woods. I hope you have landed some great deals as well! As always, everything in this post was free through Xtreme Couponing, BOGO sales, Online deals, or requesting free samples. It is my goal to inspire you to actively seek free stuff, because it IS out there. I also want to give you some of the tools to find them yourself! First, there is a list of all that I receivd free this week. If the deal is still available, I will provide the link. After that you will find a list of my favorite online freebies that are available right now.

January Week 4 Totals:
~Spent $69.51
~Saved $110.34
~Coupons Used 39
~Savings 61%

The bottom shot is a deal that I ran at CVS this week using their Extra Care Bucks. I purchased $36.70 in merchandise for .75 cash and $13 ECB. I received $15 in ECB at checkout. This essentially means that I was paid $1.25 to take this merchandise home, because ECB are just like cash at CVS.

Free in my Mailbox
~Slimfast Bar
~International Delight (Facebook Promotion, coupon for free bottle)
~Vogue Magazine
~2 Pull-Ups
~Nestle Planner W/Coupons
~Juicy Juice Sippy Cup (Posted HERE)
~2 5ct. Airborne (Facebook Promotion)
~Skein Caron Yarn (Facebook Promotion)
~Insulated "Green" Bag (Gift from Neilsen Consumer Panel)
~Pedometer & Excercise DVD (Tylenol Promotion)
~Gold Bond Hand Sanitizer Sample

Xtreme Couponing
~Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kit (CVS)
~Tombstone Pizza (not pictured-Food Lion)
~2 Boxes Annies Organic Mac & Cheese (Super Fresh)
~4 Johnson's Buddies (Target-used 1/3 Coupon $1 off any Johnsons Baby Product)
~2 Pkg. Carefree Pads (Target)
~2 Renu Trial Size (Target-Printable HERE Free with overage.)
~5 Bags Stacy's Pita Chips (CVS)
~4 Gatorade (CVS)
~1 14 Ct. Prilosec (CVS)
~1 Campbell's Soup (CVS)

Favorite Online Freebies

Okay, not quite a freebie...but still *HOT*. Receive $5 in Multigrain Cheerios Coupons in your Inbox, HERE.

Think Marriage is offering FREE love letter kits for married couples, just in time for Valentine's Day! They are giving away 400 per day, so if you miss it today be sure to try again HERE.

Splenda is offering your choice of samples HERE. I chose the Hazelnut flavor, Yummy!

Crown Publishing is offering advanced copies of three new books HERE. Books make me so happy :)

Kashi is offering your choice of samples HERE. I chose the Honey Almond Flax Cereal because almonds make me happy, too!

Join the Blizzard Fan Club HERE for 6 coupons in your Inbox over the next year for BOGO Blizzards...the Oreo Mint is calling my name...

Murad is offering a free sample of their Acne Complex HERE.