Sharing the Phone

O.k., I have 3 girls.   I knew that would mean some serious phone issues ONE day!  I did not think that would start at the ages of 9, 8 and 6.  

This last week, my kids were assigned a group project in their Drama class.  They had to exchange phone numbers with their group members and contact each other during the week.  This sounds nice and good and cute.  BUT, it was one of the most annoying things I've had to listen to in a long time.  Most of the phone call with Avery's group was laughing, giggling, yelling, joking, making silly noises and the like.  I finally had to come in and take over and get them all focused.  Still, it took another 45 minutes on the phone for them to figure out what they were doing.  This was only the 1st of 2 conversations.  

Then, Morgan also had multiple conversations with her group.  Between the 2 of them, there were several hours during the week where the phone was unavailable to me and I have no idea if anyone called.  

Then, they called the next door neighbor and talked to her a couple of times.  

It was such a strange feeling for the phone to ring and realize it wasn't for me.  

I guess I should get used to that.  I'm o.k. as long as I don't hear any male voices calling this way :)

All of sudden, I realize why I had my own phone line when I was a teenager :)

Where Did That Money Come From?

Cory has been extremely fortunate to work with his company an extra month than what he thought. So, tomorrow is his official "last day". They have been so helpful in making this time easier and doing anything they can to ease the burden.
One of the nice things about having 8 weeks notice to the end of your job is the amount of time you have to prepare and plan. So, since early in December, we have been operating on a VERY tight budget. Just when you think you can't cut back anymore, you find ways.
It has been amazing to see the way that God continues to bless us. In fact, last night Cory and I were talking over all this and we realized a couple of things:

1) We have a savings account. We haven't had one of those to speak of since we started having kids.
2) We have more in our savings account than we ever have before.
3) We can't really account for even half of that money. I'm sure I could go back week by week and see how God did it. But, off the top of my head, I really don't know.
4) We just did our taxes and we will be able to add a considerable amount to that savings.
5) There are already 4 different side jobs that have been offered to Cory. He has this amazing ability to do just about anything that is needed in a home.
6) We have been able to pay all our bills.
7) I am applying for financial assistance with the hospital for the $5,000 bill we incurred in November. If we are accepted, they will basically wipe out the bill except for $100.
8) We have learned how to keep our grocery bill low enough to feed our family on very little.

So, as we enter this time of uncertainty, it is so neat to see the way the Lord is already providing. I know He has something specific He wants me to learn. I know that He wants to draw me closer to Him during this time. I just pray that I am willing.

Publix Weekly Deals and Coupons for 1/29-2/4

Publix will allow you to use 1 manufacturer AND 1 store coupon (this includes competitor store coupons) on every item you buy.

When an item is 3/$5 or such, you don't have to buy 3 to get the sale price.

Remember, you can use 2 coupons on BOGO items!!
Sunday Paper Insert Code:
SS - Smart Source
RP - Red Plum
GM - General Mills
P&G - Proctor & Gamble
KL - Kellogg's
V - Vlassis

If you want multiple coupons of bogo items for this week, be sure to order your coupons today from


Snack Factory Pretzel Chips (bogo @ $3.19/2)
Use 2 $1.10/1 printable
Makes them $.50 a box

Eight O'Clock Coffee (bogo @ $5.23/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from recent dispensers or inside of package
Makes them $1.61 a bag

Kraft Mayo (bogo @ $4.81/2)
Use 2 $.75/1 from SS 1/18
Makes them $1.65 each

Kellogg's Cereal (bogo @ $4.09/2 - inlcudes Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops, Corn Pops, Apple Jacks, Rice Krispies, Cereal Straws, Grab N' Go packs)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.29 a box

Quaker Granola Bars (bogo @ $3.07/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 1/4 or in-store dispensers AND 2 $.50/1 printable Target coupon (this doesn't seem to be available anymore)
Makes them $.53 a box

Quaker Oatmeal (bogo @ $2.83/2)
Use $1/2 or 2 $.60/1 from RP 11/16 or 1/4
Makes them $.81 - $.91 each

McCormick Chili Seasoning Mix (bogo @ $1.35/2)
Use $.25/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $.55 each

Hunt's Canned Tomatoes (bogo @ $1.39/2)
Use $.40/2 from SS 1/18 or $1/2 from in-store dispenser
Makes them $.20 - $.50 a can

V8 Splash Juice (bogo @ $3.39/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable OR 2 $.50/1 from SS 1/4
Makes them $.70 - $1.20

GM Chex Mix (bogo @ $2.73/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from SS 12/7 or 1/25
Makes them $.86 a bag

Nabisco Crackers (bogo @ $3.59/2)
Use $2/2 from SS 1/25
Makes them $.80 a box

Keebler Crackers (bogo @ $4.09/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 12/14 or $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.04 - $1.54 a box

Breakstone's Sour Cream ($.99)
Use $.55/1 from RP 1/25
Makes them $.44 each

Kraft Velveeta Cheese (bogo @ $3.69/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable

Makes them $.84 a block

Bird's Eye Voila Meals (bogo @ $5.17/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.57 a bag

Dean's Dip (bogo @ $2.09/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/25
Makes them $.54 each

Kraft Cheese (2/$4)
Use $1/1 or $.75/1 from recent in-store dispensers
Makes them $1 - $1.25 each

More BOGO deals w/ NO coupons:
Oscar Mayer Beef Franks ($4.19/2)
Pepsi 8-pack ($2.99/2)
Lay's Potato Chips ($3.99/2)
Kraft BBQ ($1.75/2)
Mt. Olive Pickles ($2.79/2)
Gia Russa Sauce ($5.79/2)
Lipton Tea ($6.99/2)
MD Amp Energy Drink ($6.59/2)
Publix Popcorn ($3.79/2)
Planters Peanuts ($3.29/2)
Goldfish Crackers ($2.19/2)
Arnold Select Rolls ($2.99/2)
Mars Chocolate bags ($3.91/2)
Mrs. Paul's Fish ($4.49/2)
Tombstone Pizza ($5.95/2)
Cole's Garlic Bread ($2.79/2) - send in for free reusable bag when you buy 4 here
Earth's Best Organic Baby Food ($1.09/2)
Curly's Pork or Chicken ($5.69/2)

Winn-Dixie Deals and Coupons for 1/28-2/3

Red Baron Pizza (bogo @ $8.29/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11
Makes them $3.65 a box

Farm Rich Pizza Slices, Mozz Bites or Cheese Sticks (bogo @ $8.29/2)
Use $1/1 printable
Makes them $3.15 a bag

Orville Popcorn (bogo @ $4.79/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/18
Makes them $1.90 a box

Nabisco Snack Crackers (bogo @ $4.19/2)
Use $2/2 from SS 1/25
Makes them $1.10 a box

Milford Valley Chicken Nuggets (bogo @ $ 4.99/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 printable
Makes them $2 a box

Bugles or Chex Mix (bogo @ $2.69/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from SS 12/7 or 1/25
Makes them $.84 a bag

Kellogg's Cereal (bogo @ $4.39/2)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.40 a box

Maxwell House Coffee ($5.99)
Use $1/1 from inside package
Makes them $4.99 each

Gorton's Shrimp Temptations (bogo @ $7.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 12/7 or $.75/2 printable
Makes them $3 - $3.64 a box

GM Cereal (bogo @ $4.59/2 - includes multigrain cheerios, total, honey nut cheerios, double chocolate cookie crisp, fiber one honey clusters)
Use $1/2 or $.50/1 from SS 1/11 or 1/18 or $.75/1 printable
Makes them $1.50 - $1.75 a box

Nature's Own Bread (bogo @ $3.79/2)
Use $1/1 from SS 12/14
Makes them $.90 a loaf

Pompeian Olive Oil (bogo @ $5.79/2)
Use $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.90 a bottle

Crystal Light Drink Mix (bogo @ $4.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.50 a box

Duncan Hines Brownie mix, Cake mix or Frosting (10/$10)
Use $.75/2 or $1/1 from SS 11/9
Makes them FREE - $.63 each

Kraft Mayo (bogo @ $4.99/2)
Use 2 $.75/1 from SS 1/18
Makes them $1.75 each


More bogo items with NO Coupons:
Strawberries 1 lb. ($3.99/2)
5 lb. Idaho potatoes ($4.99/2)
Lay's Potato Chips ($4.79/2)
Planters Nuts ($4.79/2)
Cheez-It Crackers ($4.19/2)
OM Bologna ($3.49/2)
OM Chicken Strips ($3.99/2)
Pepsi 2 Liters ($1.79/2)
Winn-Dixie Coffee Creamer ($2.99/2)
Entenmann's Little Bites ($4.29/2)
Taco Bell Dinner Kit ($2.99/2)
Mt. Olive Pickles ($2.69/2)
Kool-Aid or County Time Drink Mix ($4.99/2)
Earth's Best Organic 2nd foods ($.99/2)
Kraft BBQ or Bull's Eye ($2.39/2)
Hunt's Ketchup ($2.59/2)
Dole Salad's ($4.79/2)

BeCentsable on Good Morning America

UPDATE - The segment on becentsable was bumped from today's (1/28) show. It will not air tomorrow either but should be on within the next week.

The blog that I write for weekly for Publix and Winn-Dixie Deals is going to be featured tomorrow on "Good Morning America".

Take a few minutes and check out the site. There is a button on the left side of my page. They have lots of great ideas and help on how to be a frugal person in the economy we are living in.

Unconventional Week

We decided to do school this week a little differently. We took a break from our normal curriculum and instead dove into American Government.
We started on Monday by talking about Martin Luther King, jr. which easily led into the inauguration on Tuesday. Yesterday, we got into the Constitution and the 3 branches of the government. We focused on the Legislative branch yesterday. Today we went on to talking about the other 2 branches and how they all function together and the jobs they each have.
I feel like I am learning right alongside my kids. I honestly couldn't tell you many of the details last week that I am teaching today. I have looked for online sources before to make teaching this easy. I have found some sites in the past that are good for working on the computer. But yesterday, I found a great informational site with pages you can print out. If you have never checked out www.kids.gov , you should. It is very user and child friendly.

Publix Deals and Coupons for 1/22-1/28

Publix will allow you to use 1 manufacturer AND 1 store coupon (this includes competitor store coupons) on every item you buy.

When an item is 3/$5 or such, you don't have to buy 3 to get the sale price.

Remember, you can use 2 coupons on BOGO items!!
Sunday Paper Insert Code:
SS - Smart Source
RP - Red Plum
GM - General Mills
P&G - Proctor & Gamble
KL - Kellogg's
V - Vlassis

If you want multiple coupons of bogo items for this week, be sure to order your coupons today from

Campbell's Chunky Soup (bogo @ $2.51/2)
Use $.50/2 from SS 12/14
Makes them $1 a can

Juicy Juice (bogo @ $3.59/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $.80 a bottle

Dole Fruit, Gel, Parfait Bowls (bogo @ $2.51/2)
Use $.75/2 or $1/2 from SS 1/11
Makes them $.75 - $.87 a 4pk

Crystal Light ($4.83/2)
Use $1/2 printable
Makes them $1.91 a box

Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Bars (bogo @ $3.79/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11
Makes them $1.40 a box

McCormick Garlic Powder (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use 2 $.25/1 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.25 a bottle

Uncle Ben's Rice 5 lb. bag (bogo @ $6.99/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 1/11 or $1/2 printable
Makes them $3 a bag

Kraft Salad Dressings (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/18
Makes them $1.15 a bottle

Pace Salsa (bogo @ $2.79/2)
Use $.40/2 or $1/1 from SS 12/14
Makes them $.40 - $1.20 a bottle

Orville Popcorn (bogo @ $5.07/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/18 or $1/1 printable AND 2 $1/2 from Publix Advantage Mag
Makes them $1.03 - $1.53 a box

Keebler Cookies (bogo @ $4.09/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.04 each

Post Cereals (bogo @ $4.17/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/25 (this coming Sunday)
Makes them $1.58 a box

Hershey's Kisses Bib Bag (bogo @ $5.49/2)
Use $2/2 from SS 1/25 (this coming Sunday)
Makes them $1.75 a bag

Emerald Nuts (bogo @ $5.79/2)
Use $1.50/2 from SS 11/9 or 1/11 or $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.85 - $2.15 each

Red Baron Pizza (bogo @ $5.97/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11
Makes them $2.50 each

Yoplait (20/$10)
Use $.40/6 from GM 1/4
Makes them $.43 each

Pillsbury Toaster Strudel (bogo @ $2.57/2)
Use 2 $.35/1 from GM 1/4 or $1/1 printable
Makes them $.28 - $.95 a box

Weight Watchers Smart Ones Entrees (50% off)
Use $2/4 Target coupon from SS 10/19 AND $1/5 printable

Fantastik Cleaner (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 1/11
Makes them $.50 each

Lysol All Purpose Cleaner (bogo @ $3.19/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 1/4
Makes them $.60 each

A.1. Steak Sauce ($4.29/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.15 a bottle

More BOGO with NO coupons:
Bertolli Pasta Sauce ($3.07/2)
Curly's Baked Beans With Pork ($3.99/2)
Ronzoni Pasta ($1.49/2)
Doritos ($3.99/2)
Nabisco Snacks ($3.07/2)
Entenmann's Pop'ems Glazed Donuts ($3.99/2)
Arnold Select Sandwich Thins ($2.99/2)
Organic Batter Blaster ($4.99/2)

Winn-Dixie Deals and Coupons for 1/21-1/27

Orville Popcorn (bogo @ $3.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $1 a box

GM Cereal (bogo @ $4.59/2 - includes Multigrain or Honey Nut Cheerios, Total, Double Chocolate Cookie Crisp, Fiber One, Honey Clusters)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11 or $.75/1 printable
Makes them $1.54 - $1.79 a box

GM Cereal ($1.99 - includes Cinnamon Toast Crunch or Cheerios)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11 or $.75/1 printable
Makes them $1.25 - $1.50 a box

Chex Mix (bogo @ $2.69/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from SS 12/7
Makes them $.85 a bag

Ocean Spray Juice (bogo @ $4.29/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from RP 1/11
Makes them $1.15 each

Birds Eye Frozen Veggies ($10/10)
Use $1/2 printable
Makes them $.50 a bag

More BOGO w/ NO Coupons -
Breyers Ice Cream ($5.99/2)
Sara Lee HW Bread or Thomas English Muffins($2.99/2)
Doritos ($3.99/2)
Kraft Mac n Cheese ($2.69/2)
BC Brownie MIx ($2.69/2)
Bugles ($2.69/2)

Martin Luther King - Teaching Moment

Today we celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday. As I explained to my children who he was and what he stood for, something really struck me.

Until a couple of months ago, my kids had no idea what racial prejudice was. We started reading the Addie (American Girl) book. This is written from the perspective of a 9 year old slave in America. It was very descriptive and eye opening to my girls. They couldn't understand why anyone would ever behave the way this country did only a short time ago. We talked a lot about slavery and that time in our history. We also talked about how this is still happening all over the world.

Today though was the first time we really talked about segregation and racism. Again, they were so baffled by the behavior. We talked about Rosa Parks and the boycott King encouraged which led to a new law banning segregation on buses. We talked about where King lived, who he married and his children. We talked about his profession and his heritage in that profession. We talked about his famous speech and how it still needs to be learned by many. Then, we talked about the inauguration and why this is such a big deal.

It is amazing to me that only about 150 years ago, children my children's age were already being taught and believed the exact opposite of what I am teaching my children. They believed they were better and had the right to treat another human being with such disrespect.

Although Obama and I have our differences and I would much rather him be on the conservative side of issues, I am amazed at the change our country has made in such a short amount of time.

Ringling Bros. AND Barnum & Bailey

Our local library was giving away tickets to the circus for every child that checked out atleast 5 books. Well, since we started going to the library again on a weekly basis, we met the criteria easily. So, I was handed 4 free tickets to the circus. We hadn't even considered going until then. Now, we only had to pay for Cory and I... SWEET! So, off we went. We bought those cheap, 2nd level tickets. But, that's o.k., my kids don't know any difference.

Philharmonic Orchestra for Kids

On Sunday, we took the kids to the Philharmonic Orchestra in downtown Orlando. The great thing about this event is that they have so many "hands-on" things for the kids to do. They had several instrument "petting zoo's". They also had the Orlando Science Center there with Dinosaur fossils, face painting and kid conducting. Here are some pictures of the day.

Sydney got to sit with grandma

Morgan & Avery sat by grandpa

Flute petting zoo

Avery playing the flute

Jordan said this was his favorite part... he said the music was boring :)

American Idol Premiere Party

Well, it's back!! American Idol, Season 8 is here full force. We decided to kick things off right with our very own American Idol Rock Star Party! Everyone dressed up like a rock star and even had acapella karaoke on the commercial breaks (you must play the video below if you want to see me and my friends making fools of ourselves!).

Here is the group. What a crew!

Here is on of our commercial breaks
Hot, Girls, Hot!!I know this picture is a little weird, but so am IAnother commercial breakHere are the girls with their rock star faces on
This is our album cover
We had such a fun time acting like idiots and definitely NOT acting our age. One of things that made my evening was having the little neighbor girl that joined us say to Morgan, "Wow! I wish my mom would dress like that!". I like my kids having a friend that thinks I'm cool. I'm sure that won't last for much longer :)

Publix Deals and Coupons for 1/15-1/21

Publix will allow you to use 1 manufacturer AND 1 store coupon (this includes competitor store coupons) on every item you buy.

When an item is 3/$5 or such, you don't have to buy 3 to get the sale price.

Remember, you can use 2 coupons on BOGO items!!
Sunday Paper Insert Code:
SS - Smart Source
RP - Red Plum
GM - General Mills
P&G - Proctor & Gamble
KL - Kellogg's
V - Vlassis

If you want multiple coupons of bogo items for this week, be sure to order your coupons today from

Publix Salad Blend (bogo @ $3.09/2)
Use 2 $2/1 Publix Salad with the purchase of 1 Hidden Valley dressing from Publix Advantage Buy Mag AND $2/5 produce printable (from Food Lion)
Makes salad FREE and $.81 toward purchase of Hidden Valley

Pompeian Olive Oil (bogo @ $5.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $2 a bottle

Hellmann's Mayo (bogo @ $5.13/2)
Use 2 $.60/1 from RP 11/16
Makes them $1.95 each

Smucker's Preserves/Jam/Jelly (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use 2 $.35/1 from 1/4 or 2 $.25/1 from RP 11/9
Makes them $1.30 - $1.40 a jar

Quaker Instant Oatmeal (bogo @ $3.89/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 11/16 or 2 $.70/1 from 1/4
Makes them $1.25 - $1.40 a box

Kellogg's Cereal (bogo @ $4.29/2 - includes Frosted Flakes, Apple Jacks, Corn Pops or Froot Loops)
Use 2 $1/1 from RP 12/14
Makes them $1.15 a box

Mueller's Pasta (bogo @ $1.39/2)
Use $.55/2 from SS 1/4
Makes them $.42 a box

Yoplait Go-Gurt (bogo @ $3.09/2)
Use $.75/2 from GM 1/4 or $1/2 printable
Makes them $1.03 - $1.17 each

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use $.60/2 from RP 1/18 (this coming Sunday)
Makes them $1.20 each

Tropicana O.J. (2/$6)
Use $1/2 from 1/4
Makes them $2.50 a carton

Honey Bunches of Oats Cereal (bogo @ $4.21/2)
Use $2/1 printable
Makes them $.10 a box

Kellogg's Waffles (bogo - price not listed)
Use 2 $.75/1 from RP 12/14
Makes them a great deal!

Mott's Applejuice (bogo @ $3.09/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 12/7
Makes them $.54 a bottle

Betty Crocker Muffin Mix (bogo @ $2.59/2)
Use $1/2 or 2 $.40/1 from SS 12/14 or $1/2 printable
Makes them $.80 - $.90 a box

Aunt Jemima Syrup (bogo @ $3.89/2)
Use $1/2 from 1/4
Makes them $1.45 a bottle

Electrasol Detergent (bogo @ $7.79/2)
Use 2 $2.50/1 from SS 1/4
Makes them $1.40 a box

Strawberries/Blueberries ($2.99)

Black Seedless Grapes ($.99/lb.)

Publix Mushrooms (2/$3)

More Bogo deals with NO coupons
Quaker Instant Grits ($2.87/2)
Del Monte Canned Veggies ($1.33/2)
Tostitos Chips ($4.99/2)
Banquet brown 'n serve sausage links ($1.89/2)
Hebrew National Franks ($4.79/2)
Lawry's 30 Min Marinade ($2.81/2)
Duncan Hines Brownie Mix ($2.59/2)
Ritz Crackers ($3.89/2)
8-pack Coke ($3.66/2)
Snickers 2 Go Bars ($4.29/2)
Thomas English Muffin ($2.99/2)
Lender's Bagels ($2.15/2)
Kim & Scott's Gourmet Soft Pretzels ($4.99/2)
Whole Fruit Sorbet ($2.99/2)
Kashi Pizza (50% off)

Winn-Dixie Deals and Coupons for 1/14-1/20

Edy's Ice Cream (bogo @ $5.89/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from All You Mag
Makes them $1.95 a carton

Kellogg's Cereal (bogo @ $3.89/2 - includes Froot Loops, Corn Pops, Apple Jacks, Frosted Flakes)
Use 2 $1/1 from RP 12/14
Makes them $.95 a box

Quaker Cereal (bogo @ $4.49/2 - includes Oatmeal Squares and Cap'n Crunch)
Use $1/2 or 2 $.50/1 from RP 1/4
Makes them $1.75 a box

Quaker Instant Grits or Old Fashioned Oats (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 11/16 or 2 $.60/1 or $.70/1 from 1/4
Makes them $.80 - $1 each

Quaker Granola Bars (bogo @ $4.29/2)
Use $1/2 from 1/4
Makes them $1.65 a box

Quaker Instant Oatmeal (bogo @ $4.79/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from 1/4
Makes them $1.35 a box

Pepperidge Farm Garlic Bread (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $.65 each

Ken's Salad Dressing (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11
Makes them $1.15 a bottle

Pop-Secret Popcorn (bogo @ $4.79/2)
Use $.50/2 from SS 1/4
Makes them $2.15 a box

GM Cereal ($1.99 - includes Cinnamon Toast Crunch or Cheerios)
Use $1/3 from GM 1/4 or $.75/1 printable
Makes them $1/24 - $1.66 a box

More BOGO deals with NO Coupons
Swanson Pot Pies ($1.25/2)
Mrs. Paul's Fish Sticks ($7.59/2)
Pepperidge Farm 3-Layer Cake ($4.49/2)
Hormel Canned Chicken ($3.59/2)
Ronzoni Pasta ($1.59/2)
Winn-Dixie Seasoning Packets ($1.29/2)
Northwood's Syrup or Entenmann Donuts ($4.29/2)
Saltine Crackers or PF Goldfish ($2.99/2)
Crane Lake Wine ($10.99/2)
Cheetos ($2.89/2)
Dole Salad Kits ($3.99/2)

Reading Proverbs

When I first began homeschooling, we made some goals for the end of the school year. Being a Christian, one of my most important goals was to educate my children in the Bible and help them to develop a growing relationship with the Lord.
Great goal, not the best follow through. I realized quickly that I was going to struggle with this task just as much as I struggled with keeping my own relationship fresh and growing.
I got bogged down with the curriculum and academic learning that I often put God aside.

Every year in August I reevaluate my goals. Every year, I decide THIS is going to be the year that I put family devotions, character qualities and learning more about our Lord before anything else. Every year, I start off that way and then I allow that to fade away. My head tells, "they don't get tested on that!". So, I lose focus.

This year, I had a new excuse... I don't have a good devotional book to read with my kids. I mean, I am not a scholar or anything. So, I just kept putting it off and putting it off. I looked at devotional books online. I thought they all looked way too expensive.

Well, it only took the first semester for God to hit me over the head hard enough for me to give in. He reminded me that my kids aren't stupid. Interesting, huh? What I mean is that I don't have to use (although I still think it would be helpful) a "devotional book". My kids can understand His word and learn straight from the source.

So, we started to read through Proverbs last week. It has been very cool to see the way they understand things beyond their years and are figuring out ways to apply what they read to their own lives.

I hope I remember this in weeks to come when the temptation to just "get school done" comes over me. I don't want to look back on this school year with regret.

Job Search Help

Well, we are still looking for a job. Luckily, Cory's brother has been a tremendous help. Click here to see his great suggestions.

Del Monte Coupons

If you are looking for some great Del Monte coupons on a regular basis,

Check out www.delmonte.com/solutions to sign up for the free Del Monte Dish e-Newsletter. You will receive up to $35 of savings in coupons and other offers. Plus, each month will feature a new ‘Savings to Savor’ Del Monte product that the first 50,000 people to respond will receive for free and then 50 cents off to everyone after that (this month features Del Monte No Salt Added Diced Tomatoes).

Also, Del Monte just launched their ‘Fruit Undressed’ campaign. Go to www.fruitundressed.com and check out this fun site. You can also sign up for $1.00 off any 1 (one) DelMonte® Citrus Bowl, Orchard Select®, or SunFresh® Refrigerated Glass Jar, or any 2 (two) Del Monte® Fruit Naturals® products.

Publix Weekly Deals and Coupons for 1/8-1/14

Publix will allow you to use 1 manufacturer AND 1 store coupon (this includes competitor store coupons) on every item you buy.

When an item is 3/$5 or such, you don't have to buy 3 to get the sale price.

Remember, you can use 2 coupons on BOGO items!!
Sunday Paper Insert Code:
SS - Smart Source
RP - Red Plum
GM - General Mills
P&G - Proctor & Gamble
KL - Kellogg's
V - Vlassis

If you want multiple coupons of bogo items for this week, be sure to order your coupons today from

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts ($1.99/lb.)

Ken's Steak House Dressing (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11 (this coming Sunday)
Makes them $1.15 a bottle

GM Fiber One Cereal (bogo - price not listed)
Use 2 $.75/1 printable
Makes them a good deal

Barber Stuffed Chicken (bogo @ $4.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable (I believe on page 5)
Makes them $1.50 a box (these are well worth it! My whole family looks forward to these going on sale)

Folgers Coffee 27.8 - 34.5 oz can ($5.49)
Use $.50/1 from P&G 12/28 or $1/1 printable
Makes them $4.50 - $5 each

Nestle Hot Cocoa Mix (bogo @ $1.99/2)
Use 2 $.75/1 printable
Makes them $.25 a box

Kellogg's Special K Cereal (bogo @ $4.09/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from RP 12/14
Makes them $1.04 a box

Kellogg's Special K Cereal Bars (bogo @ $3.19/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 12/14 or 1/4
Makes them $1.10 a box

GM Fiber One Toaster Pastry (bogo @ $2.29/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 12/14 or 1/4
Makes them $.65 a box

Pasta Roni or Rice a Roni (bogo @ $1.75/2)
Use $1/4 from RP 1/4
Makes them $.64 a box

Campbell's Select Harvest Soup (bogo @ $2.45/2)
Use $.50/2 from SS 1/4 or 12/14
Makes them $.97 a can

Del Monte Tomatoes (bogo @ $1.53/2)
Use $1/4 from RP 11/16
Makes them $.51 a can

Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks (bogo @ $2.81/2)
Use $.50/2 from GM 1/4 or $1/2 printable
Makes them $.90 - $1.15 a box

Smart Balance Spread (bogo @ $3.09/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 11/2
Makes them $1.04 each

Superpreztel Soft Pretzel (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use $.75/2 from RP 12/14
Makes them $1.14 a box

More BOGO deal with NO Coupons
Chatham Village Croutons ($1.59/2)
Valley Fresh Canned Chicken ($3.59/2)
Smithfield Bacon ($3.99/2)
Prego Sauce ($3.69/2)
Aunt Jemima Pancakes ($2.57/2)
Entenmann's Little Bites ($4.29/2)
Ruffles Chips ($3.99/2)

Winn-Dixie Weekly Deals and Coupons for 1/7-1/13

There is not much to speak of this week. But, there are a couple of things worth mentioning.

GM Cereal ($1.99 - includes Cheerios or Cinnamon Toast Crunch)
Use $.75 printable or $1/3 from GM 1/4
Makes them $1.25 - $1.66 a box

Kellogg's Special K Cereal or Cereal Bars ($1.99)
Use $1/1 from RP 12/14 or $1/2 from RP 1/4
Makes them $1 - $1.50 a box

Smart Ones Entrees or Desserts (bogo @ $3.79/2)
Use $1/5 printable
Makes them $1.70 a box (when you buy 10)

Arnold Bread ($2.89/2)
Nature's Own Bagels ($3.69/2)
Ocean Spray Juice ($4.29/2)

Dollar Days at Scholastic (for teachers and homeschoolers)

There are over 400 items marked down to $1 at the Scholastic web site. This deal lasts through the end of January, but lots of items are already out of stock. Click here to see all these great deals! (thanks Money Saving Mom!)

I got 34 items and shipping was still under $3! It just doesn't get better than that, folks.

Parade Time

We went to the Citrus parade in Downtown Orlando on Tuesday. The weather was great and the kids had a blast! We packed our lunch and spread out with chairs. It's amazing when you can get 11 kids to sit still and be quiet for that long.Here is the start of the parade with police clearing the way
The kids were very excited to see the Georgia band and mascot come by. They even got to shake UGA's hand :)Apparantly, this is what we do when Michigan State's band goes by.This is one of Morgan's favorite people in the worldMany of the floats would throw candy or necklaces. We even got some little flashlights.

Publix Weekly Deals and Coupons for 1/1 - 1/7

Publix will allow you to use 1 manufacturer AND 1 store coupon (this includes competitor store coupons) on every item you buy.

When an item is 3/$5 or such, you don't have to buy 3 to get the sale price.

Remember, you can use 2 coupons on BOGO items!!
Sunday Paper Insert Code:
SS - Smart Source
RP - Red Plum
GM - General Mills
P&G - Proctor & Gamble
KL - Kellogg's
V - Vlassis

If you want multiple coupons of bogo items for this week, be sure to order your coupons today from


Publix Milk ($3.49/gallon)

GM Cereal ($1.99 - includes Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios, Trix, Cocoa Puffs, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Golden Grahams, Lucky Charms, Reese's Puffs or Cookie Crisp)
Use $1/2 printable
Makes them $1.50 a box (when you buy 2)

Nature Valley Granola Bars (bogo @ $5.49/2)
Use 2 $.60/1 printable or $1/2 printable
Makes them $2.15 - $2.25 a box

Publix White Bread ($.89/loaf)

Chicken Leg Quarters ($.59/lb.)

Publix Salad Mix ($.99/bag)

Rotisserie Chicken ($4.99)

Post Cereal (bogo @ $4.31/2)
Use 2 $2/1 printable
Makes them $.15 a box!!

Kellogg's Pop Tarts (bogo @ $2.25/2)
Use 2 $.55/1 from RP 11/9
Makes them $.57 a box

Betty Crocker Supreme Brownie Mix (bogo @ $2.63/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 12/14
Makes them $.81 a box

Betty Crocker Potatoes (bogo @ $1.79/2)
Use 2 $.25/1 or $.35/1 from SS 11/16, 12/7, 12/14 or $.40/1 printable
Makes them $.50 - $.65 a box

Wish-Bone Dressing ($2.87/2)
Use $.75/2 from RP 1/4 (this Sunday)
Makes $1.06 a bottle

Orville Popcorn (bogo @ $3.23/2)
Use $1/1 printable
Makes them $.61 a box

Totino's Pizza Rolls (bogo)
Use 2 $1/1 printable or $1/2 printable AND $1/1 store printable (Target)
Price not listed but should be good deal

4 Grain Eggs (2/$4)

Curly's Chicken or Pork ($5.69/2)
Jennie-O Turkey Burgers ($8.19/2)
Barilla Pasta ($1.55/2)
Northland Juice ($3.89/2)
Green Giant Canned Veggies ($1.33/2)
Bumble Bee Tuna 4 pk ($7.49/2)
Taco Bell Dinner Kits ($2.69/2)
Freschetta PizzAmore Pizza ($5.99/2)
Stouffer's Lean Cousine Entree (50 % off)
Tam-X-ico's Tortilla ($3.19/2)
Kraft Mayo ($5.15/2)

Winn-Dixie Deals and Coupons for 1/1-1/6

To see some great deals this week, head on over to Thrifty Florida Mama.

Univeral Studios

One of the benefits of living in Central Florida is having friends that work at theme parks. This

is why I don't believe I have EVER paid to go Disney or Universal (we did have annual passes to Sea World for a couple of years). Some friends gave us 2 free passes to Universal that expired on the 31st.
We've had the passes for about 3 months. But, of course, we hadn't used them yet. So, Cory

suggested that Morgan and I take a day and go just the 2 of us (what a sweet hubby!).
We quickly took him up on his idea. I passed out my other kids and Morgan I and were off!

We started off at Islands of Adventure because I was determined to get my girl to ride some good roller coasters.

Here we are on our way in

She thinks she's pretty funny :)She decided she wanted to go on Dr. Doom's Fearfall. It's like a free fall, only it shoots you up as fast as it can to 150 ft. in the air and then pulls you down faster than gravity. She has been on a kiddie free fall ride at Sea World and didn't think this would be much different.
As you can see, she is ready to go with no fear :)This is taken after the ride. I know she is still smiling, but it's the teary eyed look of fear that I see. She decided she really DIDN'T like that ride and DIDN'T want to ride it again!
Yes, she is about to get very wet... (the sign she is standing next to says "splash zone")Getting a picture with some "whos"End of the day and exhausted!!We went to both parks and rode lots of rides...
I never did get her on those roller coasters. Oh well, maybe next time.