Monday, December 31, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 12/31-1/6


Monday: Crockpot Chicken Taco Chili
Tuesday: Broccoli Pasta
Wednesday: Pork Chops with Blue Cheese Gravy and Baked Sweet Potatoes
Thursday: Baked Tilapia with Fiesta Lime Rice
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Sunday: Leftovers

Monday, November 5, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 11/5-11/11




Monday: Hamburger Helper and Green Beans and Corn
Tuesday: Garlicky Baked Shrimp with Brown Rice and Sweet Baby Carrots
Wednesday: Wacky Mac with Butternut Squash Sauce and Mixed Vegetables
Thursday: Leftovers
Friday: Pizza
Saturday: Out
Sunday: Leftovers

Sunday, October 28, 2012

All Sorts of News!

Well, only a couple things really.

I found out about a week ago that I got another scholarship for school this year! Although it's only $200, that basically pays me back for the books I had to buy for this semester. And I was definitely not expecting it since I ended up getting a grant that paid for everything and then some. So I have to go to the scholarship ceremony next week which happens to be on a clinical day. Although I looooove clinicals (rightttt), I am really glad that I get to miss one of the 12 hour days!

The time changes next weekend which means it will be getting darker even earlier. Last year I didn't worry about it at all because I was still keeping a normal schedule. However, this time around I will be having those 12 hour clinical days. Going in when it's dark and coming out when it's dark! I know that my body will take a toll during this. When it's dark, my body says "let me sleep!" haha. Not seeing the sun for a couple days will be hard as well. I already know I'll feel like time is just passing me by and I'm getting nothing accomplished. Luckily, we have less than 2 months of this semester left! I am so glad and thankful that the time is passing so quickly. Barely more than 6 months until graduation!

I officially started Christmas shopping last week! I'm usually done by now, but it's hard to buy stuff when you are busy studying and working and trying to get some rest and especially when you're short on cash. I cannot wait to be working full-time again! I know I'm not going without the necessities but it is hard to come from a time of having everything you needed and most of what you wanted to having most of what you need and just a tad of what you want. As y'all know, I'm still deal hunting to get the most for the little I have to spend! We went to a few stores last night. Of course I bought 3 Calphalon serving spoons at Bed, Bath, and Beyond that cost $18 after coupons ($5 off and 20% off). Then I went to TJ Maxx and found the exact same things on clearance for $2 each! Of course I got them and I'll be returning the expensive ones!  I'll take $6 over $25 any day. And yes I've been scouring the Black Friday ad releases even though I'll be working that day. I'll send my elves out if I find something good!

Monday, October 15, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 10/15-10/21


Monday: Potato Soup and Biscuits (never got to it last week)
Tuesday: Pork Tenderloin with Cranberry Sauce and Macaroni & Cheese
Wednesday: Pasta with Butternut Squash Sauce and Tossed Salad
Thursday: Leftovers
Friday: Pizza and Tossed Salad
Saturday: Wedding... and maybe the State Fair!
Sunday: Leftovers

Monday, October 8, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 10/8-10/14


Monday: Tuna Helper and Corn
Tuesday: Hamburger Steak with Mushrooms, French Fries, and Sweet Baby Carrots
Wednesday: Shrimp Bread and Tossed Salad
Thursday: Herb Roasted Pork Tenderloin and Baked Sweet Potato
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Potato Soup and Biscuits
Sunday: Leftovers

Monday, October 1, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 10/1-10/7


Monday: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole with Green Peas
Tuesday: Pineapple Chili with Fruit Salad
Wednesday: Grilled Chicken with Macaroni and Cheese and Baked Sweet Potatoes
Thursday: Leftovers
Friday: Spaghetti
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Leftovers

Monday, September 17, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 9/17-9/23


Breakfasts: Cereal, Grits, Oatmeal, Mini Whole Wheat Bagels with Pumpkin Cream Cheese

Lunches: Ham or Turkey Sandwiches, Soup, Lunchables, Leftovers

Dinners
Monday: Pork Chops with Apples and Creamy Bacon and Cheese Grits and Green Beans
Tuesday: Spaghetti Squash with Sausage and Mushrooms in Tomato Sauce
Wednesday: Shrimp Stuffed Potatoes
Thursday: Leftovers
Friday: Pizza
Saturday: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole with Sweet Baby Carrots and Corn on the Cob
Sunday: Leftovers

Sunday, September 16, 2012

September 16 Shopping Trip!


Aldi
(1) Thin Wheat Crackers $1.29
(1) Cucumber $.29
(1) 8 oz. Pumpkin Cream Cheese $1.49
(1) Iceberg Lettuce $.69
(2) 8 oz. Bella Mushrooms $.79 each
3 lbs. Golden Delicious Apples $3.29
3 lbs. Fuji Apples $3.29
(2) Oscar Mayer Ham & Turkey Sub Kits 28 oz. $6.99 each
(2) Corn Chips $.99 each
(1) Light Sour Cream 16 oz. $1.29
(1) 1/3 Less Fat Cream Cheese 8 oz. $1.19
(1) Heavy Whipping Cream 16 oz. $1.89
Total: $32.90
Savings: $24.19 compared to Harris Teeter prices... a 43% savings!

Harris Teeter
(4) Nissin Cup of Noodles $.33 each
          (1) $1/4 coupon doubled = 4 Free!
(1) Jennie-O Smoked Turkey Sausage $3.15
          (1) $1/1 coupon doubled = $1.15
(1) Alexia Rosemary Fries $3
          (1) $1/1 coupon doubled = $1
(1) Pepperidge Farm Jingos $2.99
          (1) $1/1 coupon doubled = $.99
(2) Nature Valley Granola Bars $3.29 each
          (1) $1/2 coupon doubled
          (1) HT e-coupon $.50/2 =  $4.08, or $2.04 each
          SavingStar credit of $.50
(2) Cheerios $2.27 each
          minus e-vic special = $1.77 each
          (1) $1.10/2 coupon doubled
          (1) HT e-coupon $.50/1 = .$45 each
          SavingStar credit of $.50
(2) Kashi Layered Granola Bars $2.99 each
          (2) $1.50/1 coupons doubled = 2 Free!
(2) Ziploc Sandwich Bags 50 count $2.89 each
          (1) $1/2 coupon doubled =  $3.78, or $1.89 each
          SavingStar credit of $1
(1) Dawn Detergent $.99
          (1) $.50/1 coupon doubled
          (1) HT e-coupon $.50/1 = Free, plus a $.50 moneymaker!
(2) Hot Shot Wasp Killer $4.99 each
          (2) $1/1 coupons doubled = $2.99 each
(2) Anna's Chocolate Thin Mint Cookies $1.99 each
          (1) $1/2 coupon doubled = $1.98, or $.99 each
(2) Airwick Spray $.69 each
          (1) $.50/2 coupon doubled = $.38, or $.19 each
(4) Wacky Mac $1 each
          (2) $1/2 coupons doubled = 4 Free!
(5) Old Orchard Healthy Balance Apple Juice $2.85 each
          minus B2G3 sale
          (1) $1/2 coupon doubled = $3.70, or $.74 each
(1) Del Monte Mango 20 oz. $1.99
(1) Butternut Squash $.99 lb. = $3.89
(1) Spaghetti Squash $.99 lb. = $2.47
(2) McCain Purely Potatoes $2 each
          minus e-vic special = $1.57 each
(1) California Pizza Kitchen small pizza $3.33
          (1) $1/1 coupon doubled = $1.33
(2) Palermo's pizzas $7.25 each
          minus e-vic special = $2.47 each
          (1) $1/2 coupon doubled =  $2.94, or $1.47 each
(2) Dean's French Onion Dips $1.39 each
          (1) $1/2 coupon doubled = $.78, or $.39 each
          SavingStar credit of $.55
(5) Yoplait Greek Yogurts $1 each
          (1) $1/3 coupon doubled
          (1) $.50/2 coupon doubled
          (1) HT e-coupon $.50/2 = $1.50, or $.30 each
(2) HT Large Eggs $.97 each
(2) HT Skim Milk half gallon $1.57 each
Total: $47.64
Savings: $97.80, and I will get $2.55 on SavingStar... a 68% savings!

Walmart
(2) Tyson Ground Chicken 16 oz. $2 each
          (2) $1/1 coupons = $1 each
(1) Whitewheat bread $1.98
(1) Thomas Mini Bagels $2.98
Total: $7.14
Savings: $7.26 compared to Harris Teeter prices... a 50% savings!

Food Lion
(8) Progresso Soups $1 each
          (2) $1/4 coupons = $6, or $.75 each
(2) Perdue Ground Chicken 16 oz. $2.50 each
          (2) $1/1 coupons = $1.50 each
2.85 lbs. Sweet Potatoes $1.96
(1) My Essentials Crinkle Fries $1.96
          (1) Food Lion printable $.60/1 = $1.36
          SavingStar credit of $.50
(9) Dannon Oikos Yogurt $1 each
          (3) $.75/3 coupons = $6.75, or $.75 each
Total: $19.58
Savings: $22.05, and I will get $.50 on SavingStar... a 54% savings!

Just Save
(4) 8 oz. Shredded Cheese $1.28 each
Total: $5.22
Savings: $5.08, a 50% savings!

GRAND TOTAL SPENT: $112.48
TOTAL SAVINGS: $156.38 plus SavingStar earnings of $3.05... an overall savings of 59%

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

An Open Refrigerator

When we went to the beach nearly a month ago, Matthew's grandma watched Cinnamon for the weekend. She spent the night here and would go home during the day. When we got home that Sunday night, the refrigerator was wide open. All of our food was sweating. We're not sure what time she had last been here, but we think it was about 3 as we told her we'd be home by 6. However, we didn't get home until 9. So for 6 hours, our refrigerator was wide open! We threw out a whole gallon of milk, butter, lunchmeats, bags of shredded cheese, and plenty of jarred items like dressing, mayo, pickles, etc. It still makes me sick to think about how much money went into the trash.

Today, I did not have school because the teacher divided us up to do our ventilator competencies. I'm not usually here on Wednesdays until late afternoon. I woke up around 9, checked the news and my email, looked at pinterest, read some blogs, went through all the grocery store ads. I watched the Price is Right, some Rachel Ray, Kelly Ripa, etc. and around 12 I decided I was hungry for lunch. That's when I realized the refrigerator door was open. The milk was sweating, the butter was really soft. But did I throw anything away? No, because I refuse to throw even more money away. If we get sick, well so be it haha!

Monday, September 10, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 9/10-9/16



Breakfasts: Cereal, Whole Wheat Bagels, Eggs, Grits, Oatmeal


Lunches: Soup, Turkey and Ham Sandwiches, Lunchables, Leftovers


Dinners
Monday: Country Club Chicken with Green Beans
Tuesday: Skinny Taco Dip (adding refried beans and ground turkey) with Tostitos
Wednesday: Barbecued Pork Chops with Sweet Potato Fries and Corn on the Cob
Thursday: Leftovers
Friday: Matthew's Birthday!
Saturday: Out for Chinese for Matthew's Birthday! (of course, this is his request)
Sunday: Leftovers

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

What To Do, What To Do

When you really enjoy your job, albeit extremely part-time, but your school schedule doesn't quite work with the business schedule, what do you do?

For this semester, my schedule allows me less than 14 hours that I can work. I like my job, enjoy my coworkers, and am not one for change. Do I just continue working those few hours and not have a dime until I graduate and get a job in May (if I can find a job in my field)? Or do I seek out other work opportunities?

I'm conflicted and confused on this issue. I don't like being so poor that I'm worried daily about bills coming out of my checking account. I don't like the fact that even when I get paid at the end of the month, it won't even really cover what I need it to cover. Jobs are already hard to come by, but add my crazy school schedule on top and see how much more complicated it becomes. My job has been great to work with me for the past year, and I appreciate it more than anything! But I just need more money.

When is someone going to add more hours to the day? haha That would fix everything!

Monday, September 3, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 9/3-9/9


Breakfasts: Whole Wheat Mini Bagels with Laughing Cow Cinnamon Cream Cheese, Grits or Oatmeal, Eggs, Cereal with Skim Milk

Lunches: Ham or Turkey Sandwiches on Whitewheat bread, Progresso Soups, Lunchables, and Leftovers from Dinner

Dinner
Monday: Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken with Asian Mixed Vegetables and Brown Rice
Tuesday: Taco Casserole with Avocado and Black Beans
Wednesday: Roasted Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp with Spaghetti and Green Beans
Thursday: Leftovers
Friday: Savory Bread and Butter Pudding with Baked Sweet Potatoes and Green Peas
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Leftovers

Sunday, September 2, 2012

September 2 Shopping Trip!



Food Lion
(1) Food Lion Taco Sauce 16 oz. $1.79
(2) Green Peppers $.50 each
2.5 lbs. Bananas $1.48
1 lb. Strawberries $1.88
(2) Lemons $.50 each
(2) My Essentials Shredded Cheddar 8 oz. $1.66 each
(2) Dannon Oikos Yogurt $1 each
(1) My Essentials Paper Towels 3 pack $1.63
          Free when you spend $10 coupon
Total: $12.73
Savings: $4.01

Harris Teeter
(1) Garlic $.50
(2) HT Ice Cream Sandwich 12 pack $3.55 each
          e-vic special = $.97 each
(2) HT Mild Cheddar Block 8 oz. $2.99 each
          e-vic special = $1.57 each
(4) Coke 12 packs $6.39 each
          e-vic special = $1.99 each
Total: $14.19
Savings: $25.60

Getting Healthy.. Again

I know that I have told y'all several times that we were starting a diet and trying to get healthy, but we really mean it this time! Over the summer, I attended a First Place 4 Health session with a friend. Although I didn't attend all of the sessions because of my clinical schedule, I did lost 7 pounds. And the best part, I have not gained any of it back. That's not a lot of weight and nowhere near my goal, but I'm excited that I have kept it off!

The fall session of First Place 4  Health starts this Thursday. We had an information meeting about a week ago, so I decided to go ahead and get started with my healthy eating. I'm one of those people that can't start a healthy eating and exercise plan at the same time. I need a week of the eating and getting used to that before I can add in the exercise. I have to organize my time perfectly haha!

Matthew and I both began last Monday, in case you couldn't tell by our meal plan. We've been taking our breakfast and lunch to work with us and cooking dinner at home every night. It hasn't been so hard this week because my school schedule right now allows me to get home by 3 or 4 each day except Friday. But when clinicals start in a couple weeks, it's not going to be so easy. I kind of fell into that rut over the summer. There just isn't enough time in the day to do everything, but I know that I really need to make time for myself and taking care of myself.

For the Bible study we are reading "Made to Crave" and it seems like it's going to be a great read. I can't wait to get started! We'll be sharing our weekly meal ideas like usual in case you are also looking for some healthy recipes!

Saturday, September 1, 2012

September.. 2/3 of the Year is Gone!

The first week of the fall semester is already done. That went by fast! Only 15 more to go. Thank goodness!

I got my final grades for summer and ended up with an A, B, and C. I'll take it. And for my Liberty philosophy class, a B. The class went better than I expected, but I was overwhelmed the majority of the course because I'm a simple person and that class is far from simple. I'm not a deep person. Philosophy is very deep. My final paper was worth 20% and I got an 85 despite the fact that I didn't use Turabian formatting (what is that anyway?) or any outside sources. They also submit it to check for plagiarism and I had a 0% match because every bit came straight from my head! The teacher left some very nice comments about it otherwise:
          "I can tell that you worked hard and put a lot of thought into it which is the purpose of the assignment.
           I can see you truly grappling with the question of how to respond to intelligent arguments put forth by
           atheists. You have a well written paper which is also well thought out. It does a good job of engaging
           McCloskey’s argument. You deal with his points in a thoughtful fashion that is respectful and
           responsible."

The best thing about September is Labor Day and the extra weekend day I get!

Monday, August 27, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 8/27-9/2


Breakfasts: Whole Wheat Mini Bagels with Laughing Cow Cinnamon Cream Cheese, Grits or Oatmeal, Eggs, Cereal with Skim Milk

Lunches: Ham, Turkey, or Pimento Cheese Sandwiches on Whitewheat bread, Progresso Soups, Lunchables, and Leftovers from Dinner

Dinners
Monday: Hamburger Helper with Ground Turkey, Sweet Baby Carrots, and Green Beans
Tuesday: Baked Barbecue Chicken with Steamed Broccoli and Macaroni and Cheese
Wednesday: Grilled Pork Chops, Stuffing, and Baked Sweet Potatoes
Thursday: Spaghetti and Stuffed Mushrooms
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Out
Sunday: Leftovers

Desserts: Baked Apples and Funfetti Cupcakes

Sunday, August 26, 2012

August 24 Shopping Trip!


Aldi
3 lbs. Fuji apples $3.29
3 lbs. Golden Delicious Apples $3.29
Broccoli $1.69
(1) Wheat Crackers $1.29
(3) Dried Fruit $1.49 each
(2) Mushrooms 8 oz. $.79 each
(2) Sliced Cheese 10 slices $1.99 each
1 lb. Strawberries $1.79
(2) Jif to go 8 pack $2.29 each
Total: $26.48

Harris Teeter
(5) Fiber One Bars and Brownies $2.50 each
          (2) $.50/1 coupons
          (1) $.60/1 coupon
          (1) HT $.50/1 e-coupon = $8.80, or $1.76 each
(1) Chex Mix $2
          (1) $.60/1 coupon
          (1) HT $.50/1 e-coupon = $.30
(6) Hamburger Helper $1 each
          (2) $.75/3 coupons = $3, or $.50 each
(6) Green Giant canned vegetables $1 each
(4) Mueller's Spaghetti $1 each
(6) Progresso Soups $1 each
(4) Sweet Potatoes $1.77
(8) Yoplait $.40 each (e-vic special)
          (1) $.60/8 coupon
          (1) HT $.40/6 e-coupon = $2.40, or $.30 each
(2) Davidson dozen eggs $3.69 each
           minus B1G1 sale
          (2) $.75/1 coupons = $.69, or $.35 each
(1) gallon skim milk $2.97
(4) Lunchables $1 each
Total: $40.06
Savings: $50.63, plus I'll get $1 in my SavingStar account for the Chex Mix and the Fiber One Brownies


Food Lion
(2) Prego $1.67 each
          (1) $.50/2 coupon = $2.83, or $1.41 each
(1) My Essentials Grape jelly 32 oz. $1.77
(1) My Essentials Frosted Shredded Wheat Cereal $1.79
(2) Duncan Hines Brownie Mix $1 each
(2) Oscar Mayer Deli Shaved Lunchmeat 16 oz. $4.99 each
          (2) $1/1 coupons = $3.99 each
(2) Baby Carrots 1 lb. $1 each
(1) Bolthouse Farms Vanilla Chai 52 oz. $5.44
2.4 lbs. Bananas $1.38
(1) Garlic $.50
(2) Angel Soft 12 double rolls $4.49 each
Total: $35.84
Savings: $12.65, plus I'll get $1.15 in my SavingStar account for the jelly and cereal

Just Save
3 lbs. Butterball ground turkey $2.49 each
(1) Lowe's Foods Sandwich Bags $3.25
(2) Better Valu Vanilla Wafers $1.19 each
3 lbs. Clementines $2.77
(1) Snuggle 32 oz. $2.99
(6) Kellogg's Cereals (Apple Jacks, Fruit Loops, Corn Pops) $2 each
          (2) $1/3 coupons
          Buy 3, Save $3 = $4, or $.67 each
(5) Lipton Tea with Apricot 8 pack $7.49
          clearance price of $1.99
(4) Lowe's Foods macaroni and cheese $.50 each
(1) Sweet Baby Ray's $1
(1) Duke's Light Mayo 32 oz. $2.99
Total: $40.37
Savings: $56.86

Total Spent $142.75
Total Saved: $120.14

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Summer 2012

Wow.. that was the longest blog break ever! Sorry guys! Life just got busy and time got short. I guess that just shows I'm growing up because facebook and blogs were no logger on the priority list.. at all. And the menu planning disappeared because cooking was nonexistent haha! I'm not sure when I even stopped blogging, so I'll do a little recap of some big events from my summer.

Early in May, my grandma suffered a heart attack as well as another stroke, nearly a year to the day from the last one. She celebrated her 90th birthday in the hospital as she waited to get well enough to be moved to the nursing home for rehab. There were normal days and days full of confusion, but overall she was doing well. Then just a few weeks ago, she had to go back to the hospital. She'd had another stroke. This time it affected her eyesight. She has trouble focusing and has basically lost most vision in her left eye. Also in the midst of these events, her left hand was hurt by the nurses and aids pulling her and moving her. An x-ray revealed no issues, but she has been unable to use it for a few weeks now. It was decided that she would not be going back home because there was no way she would be able to care for herself. Her house was for sale for the past 2 years without any interest, but it has now been rented out to a cute little family. We had less than one month to clean out her entire 4,500 sq. ft. house that she lived in since 1967. A huge clothing sale and auction later, there are still plenty of items to donate and items being sold in small shops out of town.

Summer school ended August 8 and my online class just ended this past Sunday. However, I worked my entire break between semesters except for 2 days. I also had bronchitis the entire break.

My uncle had a heart attack about two weeks ago, and although it was minor, they found out he had 3 major blockages. They put a stent in the 100% blockage. He goes back in two weeks to get stents for the 90% and 60% blockages. He isn't even 60, but has had unhealthy eating and exercise habits for a long time. My dad has had so much stress on him between my grandma and my uncle having health issues this year. It's a miracle that he has not had any problems, but the doctor gave him a clean bill of health last week!

Matthew and I finally got a little vacation. We went to Emerald Isle with my parents and sister and her husband last weekend. We had a good time, but I cannot wait for school to be done and to be able to go out of town for more than 2 days. My mind and body are so exhausted! I need a break so bad, but it will be months before I can even dream of such a thing. We ate at this really great place at the beach called Amos Mosquito's. Check it out if you are ever in the Atlantic Beach area! Seriously, it was the most unique restaurant ever. The atmosphere and decor were just so fun and yet it felt like a backyard barbecue. And the food.. amazing! Everything was so good!

And actually just before school ended for the summer, I talked with the financial aid department at school to discuss my options. After filling out my FAFSA, it said we could contribute like $9,000 which we all know is impossible considering I work a variable part-time schedule. I turned in all of the necessary paperwork and had to go back the day we left for the beach to finalize everything. Luckily, I qualified for a full pell grant and am currently worry free!

When it rains, it pours. But we have placed our faith in God and prayed hard for His provisions. He has not let us down a single time, and He never will! We have been so blessed this year, despite all of the problems I have just mentioned. Everyone is still alive and kicking, and for that we can be thankful and praise God!

Monday, June 25, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 6/25-7/1



Monday: Tournament Game Night
Tuesday: Tournament Game Night
Wednesday: Mini Meatloaf with Green Beans and Macaroni and Cheese
Thursday: Grilled Chicken and Zucchini with Rice
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Graduation Pig Pickin for Amber!
Sunday: Macaroni Salad with Marinated Peppers and Cucumbers and Key Lime Cake

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

June 19 Shopping Trip!

Aldi
(1) Sugar Ice Cream Cones $.99
(2) Dried Pineapple $1.49 each
(1) Red, Orange, and Yellow Peppers $2.99
(1) Light Sour Cream 16 oz. $1.29
(1) Fage Plain Greek Yogurt 32 oz. $3.29
(1) Hamburger Buns $.79
Total: $12.58

Harris Teeter
(2) Furmano's Crushed Tomatoes 28 oz. $1.34 each
(3) Clorox Bleach $2.00 each
          minus e-vic sale making 2 of them $1.77 each
          minus Buy 3, get $2 off instantly = $3.54, or $1.18 each
(1) Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix $1.79
(1) HT Chili Powder $2.17
(2) HT Macaroni and Cheese $.67 each
(2) HT Spring Water 24 pack $2.77 each
(2) HT Black Beans 15 oz. $.77 each
(2) HT Sandwich Creme Cookies $2 each
(1) EVOL Flatbread $2.49
(1) HT Skim Milk gallon $2.77
(5) Diet Coke 12 packs $6.39 each
          minus B2G3 sale = $12.78, or $2.55 each
Total: $42.22
Savings: $34.47

Food Lion
(5) Betty Crocker Cake Mix $1.25 each
          minus Buy 4, Get 1 Free sale = $1 each
(1) Whitewheat Bread $1.99
(4) Diet Coke 2 Liters $.99 each
(1) Dole Shredded Lettuce $1.50
(2) Cucumbers $.50 each
(1.6 lbs.) Bananas $.91
(1) Stouffer's Lasagna $5.99
Total: $20.95
Savings: $9.29

Just Save
(2) Frozen Turkey Breast $1/lb. = 14 pounds for $14.19
(4) Banquet Chicken Pot Pies $.50 each
(1) Borden Cheese Singles $1.50
          $.55/1 = $.95
(3) Tomatoes $1.77
(3 lbs.) Ground Chuck $3/lb. = 3 pounds for $9.06
Total: $28.54
Savings: $20.31


I spent a total of $104.29 at all four stores and saved $64.07 not including how much I saved by getting those few things at Aldi, which I'd estimate at another $10 in savings. But considering that I got a total of 17 pounds of meat and enough drinks to last for a month, I'm happy with my savings and also with the fact that I used one coupon. I know, ms. coupon only used one coupon. What is this world coming to? haha Exhaustion and lack of time are both factors here. I'm still pleased that I saved so much by merely shopping the sales!

Monday, June 18, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 6/18-6/24



Monday: Leftovers
Tuesday: Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Rice and Southwest Corn
Wednesday: Midnight Meal
Thursday: Spaghetti with Garlic Bread and Tossed Salad with Homemade Ranch
Friday: Mini Meatloaf with Green Beans
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Strawberry Cobbler

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Where Have We Been?

When school ended (for my entire two week summer break), I worked full time until May 19 when I flew to Denver with my sister, Shannon, and brother-in-law, Jeff. I flew back to NC on Tuesday night, which by the way seemed like the longest flight ever only because I was losing 2 hours. But my sleep was not affected once I got home, only while I was in Colorado. I'll do separate posts on our awesome trip because there is just so much to talk about!

School started back on May 23. We have already had one test and have another this week. Clinicals start back tomorrow, and fortunately I get to go to my favorite hospital first! I am kind of excited about that, however, that will be my only visit there this summer. Last week we had orientation at Pitt, now Vidant. That was a long day of parking and walking and it was all very overwhelming! I go there next week for my first set of 12 hour clinical days. That's definitely scary to me. I've heard that they pile the work on and they don't slow down all day. I'm not super active and am usually sitting down during the day. I'm definitely taking my inhaler. I thought I was going to die the other day we were walking so fast on our tour. And I couldn't tell you one thing we looked at because I was so lost and confused in that ginormous hospital.

I babysat on Saturday while Matthew worked. I took the little boy to the children's museum in town. He had a blast! We looked at the animals, saw a lot of different brains, and played with every dinosaur you can think of. Over two hours later, I finally had to bribe him to get us to leave haha. He got a black snake in the gift shop because he wanted to scare his daddy. We stopped at Chickfila on the way home. He ate two whole nuggets out of his kid's meal. You know I ate the rest. I'm a fatty like that.

In other news, Matthew has finally reached his time at work where he qualifies for insurance! I get so tired of going through this with each job. But I know that one day, maybe even with his current job, that he will find his forever job and we won't have to keep reading up on insurance options because quite frankly I don't understand half of what they say.

Also, the most exciting news is that Matthew is helping to coach a Babe Ruth League baseball team this summer! They are all 14 and 15 year old boys. In my mind boys of that age are innocent children still. Wrong. I have been in shock from the things I've heard so far, and I've only been to two games. They are a good team though! They are 3-0 right now. I am so excited that Matthew has gotten back to what he loves most! He definitely needed a little push to accept the offer to help, but he's glad that he did. The only downside is that it's very time consuming. There are two or three games a week, and they practice the other weeknights. Since they all start right after he gets off work, or in the case of practice before he gets off work, he's not getting home until late. And we thought we didn't have time to spend with each other before!

Monday, June 4, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 6/4-6/10


Monday: Key West Grilled Chicken, Macaroni and Cheese, Green Peas, and Mandarin Oranges
Tuesday: Game Night
Wednesday: Shrimp & Grits Casserole, Tossed Salad, and Garlic Bread
Thursday: Game Night
Friday: Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Enchilada Sauce, Black Beans, and Rice
Saturday: Wedding Food!
Sunday: Cherry Pie for dessert!

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Recent Deals!

I haven't posted any deals in a long time, because I haven't really bought a lot of stuff in a while. There were even a couple of empty shelves in my freezer! Not sure how long it's been since the last time I saw it that way.

Last week I went to Harris Teeter for a super quick trip. I got 6 bags of Tostitos and 2 - 12 double roll packs of Angel Soft, that I had a raincheck for. After coupons, I spent $17.41 and saved a total of $16.17, not considering the regular price of the Angel Soft. They manually keyed in the raincheck price. So I think I saved about $8 more than that since it's regularly about $9/pack.

Then last night I headed to Target to get a few deals.
2 Angel Soft 36 Double Rolls $15.99 each
          Buy 2, get a $5 gift card for your next purchase
Total: $33.80
Savings: A ton considering a 12 pack sells for $9 at Harris Teeter!

2 Up & Up 15 oz. Baby Shampoo and Lotion $1.52 each
          (2) $1/1 Target coupons = $.52 each
Up & Up Sunscreen 30 spf $4.54
          $1/1 Target coupon = $3.54
2 Up & Up Hand Soaps $.99 each
          (2) $.50/1 Target coupons = $.49 each
Travel Bottle Set $2.97
St Ives Travel Size Face Scrub $.97
Cutter Skinsations Bug Spray $4.49
          $1/1 coupon
          $2/1 Target coupon = $1.49
Tank Dress/Swim Coverup $12.80, reduced from $20
Chino Shorts $8.98, reduced from $20
Bandeau Tankini Swim Top $13.98, reduced from $20
          $3/1 Target coupon = $10.98
Black Boy Shorts $17.99
          $3/1 Target coupon = $14.99
Total: $42.61 (after $5 gift card from previous purchase and gift card from returned items)
Savings: $42.24

Monday, May 14, 2012

Menu Plan Monday 5/14-5/20


Monday: Bible Study
Tuesday: Pancakes with Blackberry Syrup, Bacon, and Eggs
Wednesday: Shrimp Alfredo, Salad, and Garlic Bread
Thursday: Sloppy Joes, Green Beans, and Sweet Potato Fries
Friday: Leftovers!
Saturday: Flying to Colorado!
Sunday: Having Fun in Colorado!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Happy 90th Birthday, Grandma!

It's your birthday! You are turning 90 today! You never thought you would live this long, but I am so glad that you have. I have been blessed to share my 24 years with you. Although we have had our couple of times of disagreement, we see eye to eye on most things. You lead by example and have taught me so many important life lessons. You have been through so many struggles, but you always overcome. You have a spirit of determination unlike any other. I can't recall a time that I've seen you cry. You are such a strong woman. I appreciate all of the times you picked me up from school and took me to dance, even though I didn't want to be there. And although all of the snacks were not the best for me, I will always have fond memories of your snack jar and the jar full of York peppermint patties. The home you created is the only place that has ever felt like home to me. Even though I'm scared to go upstairs by myself, I just love being there. I know this birthday is not going the way you hoped, but we're still going to celebrate! I hope you enjoy every second of it and know how loved you are!

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

My 24th Birthday!

On Monday I turned 24! It's not hard to realize that you're getting older. Birthday celebrations used to last the entire month. This year it lasted 5 days. I'm sure by the time I'm 70 it will be down to 5 minutes haha.

When I was working Friday, my coworkers surprised me, and by surprised I mean, I was totally expecting it! They got me a strawberry filled cake from Anne's Donuts. It was yummy! We had already eaten chicken plates for lunch, so I was stuffed!

Sunday we celebrated with Matthew's family. My dessert of choice was Hershey creme pie! Mmmmm! I got some cards with money inside and a lily to plant in the yard. Sunday night we went out with my parents to eat at La Perla Tapatia, my absolute favorite Mexican food!

 

 On my actual birthday, I went to school for an optional review class. I finally left school at 12:15, went through the Wendy's drive-thru, and came home to eat my healthy lunch of side salad, baked potato, and a small chili while I watched TBS. I spent the afternoon lounging around with spurts of studying for my final exam. Sounds like a fun birthday, huh? For dinner we cooked buitoni pasta, frozen garlic bread, caesar salad, and a quick tiramisu with store bought pound cake haha. But really these are some of my favorite foods, so I didn't mind. Mexican and Italian food for my birthday? I'd say that's a win! Matthew gave me a few gifts including cute navy canvas shoes, acrylic cups, a Brita water bottle, popsicle molds, and tervis lids. I loved everything!!

Yesterday was my sister's birthday! She came home to see my grandma, so we went to Outback afterwards to celebrate our birthdays together. They were out of my favorite, prime rib, so I settled for Alice Springs Chicken. Everything was good and we both got free ice cream with hot fudge syrup! We went back to my parents' house to open gifts. I got some really good stuff! I can't wait to start using it all! My sister gave me some cute tshirts and tanks from Target, chalk labels, decorative paper tape, an iphone cover, an ipod armband, and initial stickers. My parents got me a new planner for school, money for my trip, face wash, a blouse from Target, and cute sandals.

Overall, I had a great birthday! And the countdown is already on for the next birthday!