Avery's Back Handspring

Avery has been working with her Aunt Jaime for a while now and a back handspring. She has had the ability for a long time and just lacked the courage. Well, yesterday she found it. She decided to put some pillows on the floor in her room and try it on her own without telling anyone. Guess what?! She nailed it! Now, she is doing them completely on her own anywhere and everywhere. She has even learned how to go from a round-off to a back handspring. She is such a flexible little thing and I am so proud of her! Thanks Jaime for all your help!

Publix Weekly Deals and Coupons for 2/26-3/4

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


Don't forget, the $5 off 20 items coupon and $10 Publix gift card rebate are still good. For more details on those deals, check here. There are not nearly as many items on sale that match these deals, but they are still available.

Mueller's Pasta (bogo @ $1.39/2)
Use $.55/2 from SS 1/4 (not in Florida)
Makes them $.42 a box

Classico Pasta Sauce (bogo @ $2.67/2)
Use $1/2 printable
Makes them $.82 a jar

Kraft Mac & Cheese Deluxe (bogo @ $2.67/2)
Use $1/2 printable
Makes them $.82 a box

Kellogg's Cereal (bogo @ $4.29/2 - includes Smart Start, Raisin Bran, Raisin Bran Crunch, Corn Flakes)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.40 a box

Quaker Cereal (bogo @ $4.63/2 - includes Cap'N Crunch, Life, Squares)
Use $.50/1 Cap'N Crunch or $1/2 Life from RP 1/4 or $1/1 Life printable or $3/5 printable
Makes them $1.31 - $1.81 a box

Betty Crocker Brownie Mix (bogo @ $2.63/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from GM 2/8
Makes them $.81 a box

Del Monte Tomatoes (bogo @ $1.53/2)
Use $1/12 or 2 $.40/1 from RP 2/8 or sign up to receive $.75/1 printable
Makes them $.01 - $.92 a can

Kellogg's Pop Tarts (bogo @ $2.45/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 1/18 or 2/22
Makes them $.72 a box

Ground Chuck ($1.99/lb.)

Red Seedless Grapes ($.99/lb.)

Tropicana OJ (2/$6)
Use $1/2 from RP 1/4
Makes them $2.50 each

Lipton Tea Bags (bogo @ $3.91/2)
Use 2 $.60/1 or 1 $.75/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.35 - $1.58 each

Pam Cooking Spray (bogo @ $3.49/2)
Use 2 $.35/1 from SS 1/18
Makes them $1.40 each

Keebler Right Bite Cookies or Sunshine Cheez-It Right Bites, Kellogg's Special K Snack Crackers or Kashi TLC Crackers (bogo @ $3.19/2)
Use $1/2 from recent tearpad
Makes them $1.10 a box

Hershey's Bliss (bogo @ $4.49/2)
Use $1/1 from SS 11/9 or 1/25
Makes them $1.25 each

Planters Peanuts (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use $1/2 from recent booklets or tearpads from various grocery stores
Makes them $1 a can

Keebler Town House or Club Crackers (bogo @ $4.09/2)
Use $1/2 from recent tearpad
Makes them $1.54 a box

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use 2 $.40/1 or $.60/2 or $1/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1 - $1.20 each

Green Giant Frozen Veggies 14 to 24 oz (bogo @ $3.49/2) -included in $5 off 20 items coupon
Use 2 $.50/1 from GM 1/4
Makes them $1 - $1.25 a bag

Gorton's Shrimp or Fish (bogo @ $7.73/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from All You Mag or SS 12/7 or $1/3 printable or buy coupons for FREE Gorton product on ebay
Makes them both FREE or $2.86 a box

Dove Ice Cream (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use $2/1 from inside package
Makes them more than FREE!!

Yoplait Yogurt 6 pk (bogo @ $2.87/2)
Use $.75/2 from GM 2/8
Makes them $1.06 each

Bird's Eye Voila Meals (bogo @ $5.15/2)
Use $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.57 a bag

Kraft Cheese (3/$5)
Use $.75/1 from recent peelies
Makes them $.92 each

Nestle Good Start Formula (not sure on original price)
Use $3/1 Publix in-ad coupon
Use $3/1 Food Lion coupon
Use $5/1 printable
Save $11 total!!

More BOGO Deals w/ NO coupons:
Green Giant Canned Veggies ($1.33/2)
Near East Rice Products ($2.19/2)
Hormel Canned Chicken ($3.39)
Publix Microwave Popcorn ($3.79/2)
Doritos ($3.99/2)
Thomas Bagels ($3.99/2)

Winn-Dixie Deals and Coupons 2/25-3/3

Fresh Strawberries ($3.99 for 32 oz)

Bumble Bee Solid White Tuna 4 pk. (bogo @ $7.49/2)
Use 2 $.55/1 from SS 2/22
Makes them $3.20 a 4 pk or $.80 a can

Classico Pasta Sauce (bogo @ $3.59/2)
Use $1/2 printable
Makes them $1.30 a jar

FREE Milk wyb 3 participating cereals (includes - *Frosted Flakes, Cocoa Krispies, *Froot Loops, Corn Flakes, *Smacks, *Raisin Bran, *Raisin Bran Crunch, *Chocolate/Peanut Butter Corn Pops)
Cereals with * are on sale 3/$9
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $2.25 a box plus FREE milk

Green Giant Steamers (10/$10)
Use $.50/1 from GM 1/4
Makes them $.50 a bag

Mrs. Paul's Battered Fillets or Breaded Fish Sticks ($6.99/2)

Gorton Fish portions or sticks (bogo @ $8.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 12/7 or buy a FREE Gorton product coupon from ebay
Makes both FREE or $3.50 each

Sea Pak Shrimp (bogo @ $8.99/2)
Use $1/1 or $1/2 from inside packages or recent magazines
Makes them $3.50-$4 a box

New England Coffee (bogo @ $5.99/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 printable (sign up to receive)
Makes them $2.50 a bag

Duncan Hines Brownie Mix (10/$10)
Use $.35/1 from SS 2/1
Makes them $.65 each

Cheez-It Crackers (bogo @ $4.19/2)
Use $1/2 from Winning Recipes and Super Savings booklet
Makes them $1.60 a box

Mueller's Lasagna (bogo @ $1.99/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 12/7
Makes them $.50 a box

Del Monte Canned Tomatoes (10/$10)
Use $1/12 or 2 $.40/1 from RP 2/8
Makes them $.60 - $.92 a can

More BOGO items w/ NO Coupons:
Arnold Bread (bogo - price not listed)
Stouffer's Lean Cousine Entree ($3.79/2)
Breyers Ice Cream ($5.99/2)
Dole Salad ($4.79/2)
Ronzoni Pasta ($1.59/2)
Crystal Light or Kool-Aid ($4.99/2)
Honey-Maid Grahams ($4.19/2)

10/$10 with NO coupons:
Martha White Muffin Mix
Kraft Mac n Cheese
Jell-O

The $5/20 General Mills Items Coupon

Here is a picture of the $5 off 20 participating GM products coupon (expires 3/4) and $10 Publix gift card rebate on participating GM products (expires 3/14).
As I wrote before, the 2 items that match both are the Green Giant Veggies and the Pillsbury Crescent Rolls.

***Update*** There were 4 Publix coupons in the Sunday insert yesterday that coincide with the deals listed below to make for an even sweeter deal!

All items listed on the coupon are: (all prices listed are after using coupons - to find coupon match-ups, click here.
Progresso Soup ($.15-$.75)
Progresso Tomatoes ($.75)
Progresso 100% Broth ($.80)
Progresso Beans & Artichokes
Progresso Bread Crumbs ($.47)
Progresso Vinegar and Seafood Sauce
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and Bread ($1.17-$1.42)
Pillsbury Frozen Baked Goods
Totino's Party Pizza and Pizza Rolls
Muir Glen Soups
Muir Glen Tomatoes ($1 off printable - makes them FREE - almost free)
Muir Glen Pasta Sauce
Green Giant Mushrooms and Asparagus
Green Giant Frozen Veggies ($.45-$.75)
Green Giant Canned Veggies

ALL Products included in rebate:
Pillsbury Grands Biscuits
Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls w/ Icing
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
Pillsbury Pizza Crust
Pillsbury Breadsticks
Pillsbury Crusty French Loaf
Pillsbury Cookie Dough
Pillsbury Ready to Bake Cookies
Pillsbury Pie Crust
Pillsbury Golden Layers Biscuits
Pillsbury Sweet Rolls
Green Giant Boil-in-a-bag
Pillsbury Oven Baked Biscuits
Pillsbury Toaster Strudel
Pillsbury Pastries
Pillsbury Pancakes
Pillsbury Oven Baked Dinner Rolls
Pillsbury Toaster Scrambles Pastries
Pillsbury County Italian Bread

Deal Idea:
15 GG Veggies ($6.75)
5 Progresso Soups ($.75)
Use $5 Coupon
Total = $2.50
Send in rebate for $10 gift card and make $7.50 PROFIT!!

Deal Idea 2:
10 GG Veggies ($4.50)
5 Crescent Rolls ($5.85)
5 Muir Glen Tomatoes (FREE)
Use $5 Coupon
Total = $5.35
Send in rebate for $10 gift card and make $4.65 PROFIT!!

There are more ways to work this deal into getting free groceries that you want. If you have already done this or are planning to, I would love to hear what you do.

Disney for FREE!!

Before the birthday girl and boy headed off to Disney, they were treated to breakfast in bed. This one Sydney's big request the night before and she was very specific about what she wanted. So, pancakes, sausage, egss and muffins. It was a spread!
After they got ready for the day, the headed off to Magic Kingdom. Here they are in front of Cinderella's castle.The race cars was one of Sydney's favorite rides. She made daddy go on it 3 times!!They stayed the whole day and closed down the park with fireworks.

Happy Birthday Daddy and Sydney!!

Today is Cory and Sydney's birthday. This year, they had the great opportunity to do something extra special!! Disney is offering a free visit to anyone ON their birthday. Well, that usually would end up costing money because who wants to go alone. But, because they share a birthday, they both are able to go for FREE!

So, that is where they are all day today. I've talked to them a couple of times and Cory said he is taking lots of pictures. I'll post those later. He also said that when you go for free on your birthday, they put a big pin on you that says, "Happy Birthday" and then they write your name underneath. So, all day, people have been wishing them a Happy Birthday. I'm sure they are going to have a great day!!

Cory,

Thanks for being such a great husband and daddy to your family! Thank you for being so patient and thorough. You are definitely the steadiness I need to balance myself out. Thank you for being the kind of dad who has no problem "babysitting" his own kids all by himself. I often forget what a rarity that is. Thank you for being so teachable and open to what God has for our family. You work very hard for our family... even when the going gets tough. You look for the benefit of all of us and not just yourself. You have a servant's heart and I often take that for granted. Thank you for being an example of Jesus with skin on. I pray that this year will be a year of tremendous growth for you and your Lord. I love you.

Sydney,

You are one of a kind!! That is something I hear often about you. You stand out in the crowd and you aren't afraid to do it. You have a strong will and you do not easily bow to peer pressure. You have little to no boundaries and can make a room fill with laughter. But, the thing I love the most about you is that your heart is SOLD OUT to Jesus!! You love to learn and love your God and you absolutely love to share that knowledge with anyone around you. I am so thankful that God gave us you only 7 years ago. I look forward to seeing your relationship with Him flourish this year and the years to come. I love you.

Publix Weekly Deals and Coupons for 2/19-2/25

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


There are a couple of deals I want to highlight this week. There are some stores that have a display in the front with a tear-off pad with a $5 off 20 participating general mills products. I have not had a chance to grab one for myself, but I will post all the participating products when I get one. Look in your store for some. When I go, I will grab a stack and will be glad to mail to anyone who would like them.

This coupon will overlap with the "get a $10 gift card when you purchase 15 participating general mills products" rebate from the SS insert on 2/8. There a 2 things this week on sale that will fit both rebates. They are:
Green Giant Frozen Veggies ($10/10)
Use $.50/2 from GM 1/4 or $.55/1 printable
Makes them $.45 - $.75 each

Pillsbury Crescent Dinner Rolls (3/$5)
Use $.25/1 from or $1/2 from SS 12/14 or 12/7
Makes them $1.17 - $1.42 each

So, you could buy 15 veggies and 5 crescent rolls for a total of $12.60. Then you would use the $5/20 products coupon. This would make your total $7.60. Then you would send off for the $10 Publix gift card. I just the LOVE the sound of FREE groceries!!
This is just one scenario that would work. Once I get my coupon, I will update with other possibilities.

O.k., on to the regular sales...
New York Style Bagel Chips (bogo @ $2.69/2)
Use $1/2 from recent peelies
Makes them $.84 a bag

Progresso Soup (4/$5) - This is also good toward the $5/15 products I believe
Use $1.10/1 printable or $1/2 printable or $2/4 printable
Makes them $.15 - $.75 a can

Progresso Broth (bogo @ $2.59/2) - This is also good toward the $5/15
Use 2 $.50/1 printable
Makes them $.80 each

Progresso Tomatoes (4/$5) - May also be included in $5/15
Use $1/2 printable
Makes them $.75 a can

Juicy Juice (bogo @ $3.59/2)
Use $1/2 printable or $.50/2 from SS 1/4
Makes them $1.30 - $1.55 each

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

Kellogg's Cereal (bogo @ $4.09/2 - includes Special K or Raisin Bran)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.29 a box

Zatarain's (bogo @ $2.05/2)
Use $1.25/3 or $.75/2 from RP 2/8
Makes them $.61 - $.65 each

Progresso Bread Crumbs (bogo @ $1.95/2)
Use $1/2 printable
Makes them $.47 each

Lawry's Garlic or Seasoned Salt (bogo @ $3.69/2)
Use $1/4 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.60 each (when you buy 4)

Crisco Olive Oil (bogo @ $6.49/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from RP 2/8
Makes them $2.25 a bottle

Wish-bone Salad Dressing (bogo @ $2.87/2)
Use 2 $.60/1 from RP 1/4
Makes them $.83 a bottle

Orville Popcorn (bogo @ $5.07/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/18
Makes them $2.03 a box

Hershey's 6 pk candy bars (bogo @ $3.85/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 11/9 or 1/25
Makes them $.92 a bag

4 grain eggs (2/$4)

Dannon Yogurt (20/$10)
Use b6g1 free coupon from SS 2/1 and $1/10 from SS 1/4
Makes them $.35 each

Sargento Cheese (2/$4)
Use $.40/1 or $.40/2 from SS 1/25
Makes them $1.60 - $1.80 each

Luigi's Italian Ice (bogo @ $3.19/2)
Sign up here for coupons

Totino Pizza Rolls (bogo @ $4.13/2)
Use 2 $.35/1 from SS 1/11, 1/18 or 1/25 or GM 2/8
Makes them $1.70 a bag

Contessa Frozen Cooked Shrimp (bogo @ $6.79/2)
Use $1.50/2 printable
Makes them $2.65 a bag

Kashi Instant Oatmeal (bogo @ $3.69/2)
2 $2/1 printable
Makes them more than FREE

Earth's Best Baby Food (bogo @ $1.09/2)
Use $1/10 printable AND $1/6 printable Food Lion coupon
Makes them $.30 a jar

Huggies Bath Wash (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 1/11 AND $.50/1 printable Food Loin coupon
Makes them $.15 a bottle

More BOGO deals w/ NO Coupons:
Banquet Sausage ($1.89/2)
Florida's Natural OJ ($3.69/2)
Green Giant Canned Veggies ($1.33/2)
Ronzoni Pasta ($1.49/2)
Coke 2-Liter ($1.85/2)
Hostess Donuts ($2.99/2)
Lay's Chips ($3.99/2)
Hungry-Man Dinner ($3.59/2)
Lender's Bagels ($2.07/2)

Winn-Dixie Deals and Coupons for 2/18-2/24

***Coupon for FREE $10 Gift Card when you transfer prescription in ad*** (you can use this coupon at Publix and CVS as well)

Fresh Ground Beef ($1.99/lb.)

Whole Chickens ($.79/lb.)

Kellogg's Froot Loops or Corn Flakes ($1.77)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.02 a box

Nabisco Crackers (2/$5)
Use $1/2 from recent in-store peelie
Makes them $2 a box

Bird's Eye Frozen Veggies (10/$10)
Use $1/3 printable
Makes them $.66 a bag

Kraft Cheese 16 oz (2/$7)
Use $.75/1 from recent in-store dispensers
Makes them $2.75 each

Mueller's Pasta (bogo @ $1.49/2)
Use $.55/2 from SS 1/4
Makes them $.48 a box

Mueller's Noodles (bogo @ $2.39/2)
Use $.55/2 from SS 1/4
Makes them $.93 a box

Prego Pasta Sauce (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use $.40/2 from SS 2/8
Makes them $1.30 a bottle

Hunt's Canned Tomatoes (bogo @ $1.69/2)
Use $.40/2 from SS 1/18
Makes them $.65 a can

Welch's Juice (bogo @ $4.79/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11 or $1/1 from Publix Mag
Makes them $1.40 - $1.90 a bottle

Kellogg's Cereal (bogo @ $4.99/2)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.75 a box

More BOGO deals w/NO coupons:
Lay's Potato Chips ($3.99/2)
Famous Amos Cookies ($3.99/2)
Entenmann's Pound Cake ($4.29/2)
Kraft BBQ ($1.69/2)
Bertolli Pasta Sauce ($3.99/2)
Lender's Bagels ($2.29/2)
Hungry-Man Dinners ($5.79/2)
Celentano Ravioli ($3.49/2)
Bonelli Olive Oil ($5.99/2)

10/$10
Starkist Chunk Light Tuna

Valentine's Day Pictures

Let me start by saying, Cory and I have never been really big celebrators of Valentine's. We usually give each other a card and call it a day. I even tell him NOT to buy me flowers. I just can't appreciate something that costs twice as much as usual and will die in a week. I also am not a big sweets fan and I certainly don't need anything else that will add to my waist line. So, instead of making it a big deal between the 2 of us, we have chosen to do more celebrating with our kids.

Still, we have not done a whole lot in the past. But, this year I think we just may have started a new tradition. After breakfast, we passed out a small paper bag to each kid and let them decorate. This was going to be their very own collection bag. Then, we hung up each bag on the wall and gave them the opportunity to make Valentine's for each other and put in the bags. They loved the freedom for creativity and I loved the lack of hit to our budget.

We spent a good part of the afternoon at the park and ate heart-shaped sandwiches (not nearly as crafty as my cousin's cupcakes).When we got home, we started making Valentine's for grandpa that we took to the hospital (update... he is now recovering at home. He still has tests and treatments ahead).

While we were gone, daddy got flowers for his girls, picked out matching dresses for them and wrote them each a note about getting ready for a date with him.We decided to let all the kids (and grown-ups) get all dressed up for our very own, homemade candlelight dinner. the girls LOVE to dress up...especially when I let them wear my makeup!

Jordan was my date. He picked me up at my door with flowers...
and all 3 girls got to be daddy's. He picked them up at their door with flowers.We used our best dishes and cloth napkins.We had a great dinner where we learned how to use our best manners... you know, no burping, no farting and chew with your mouth closed. That's fancy for us :)
The girls were all giddy over the evening and Jordan really enjoyed being a gentleman. He even told me a line from one of his favorite movies (Ice Age). He looked straight at me and said, "Mommy, you have beautiful eyes!" Oh my, have I got a heart breaker on my hands!

The History of Valentine's Day

So, I don't know about anyone else, but I have always been pretty clueless about the history of Valentine's Day. That is, until Friday when I taught my little kids at class. I found the whole story very interesting. It also helped me have a whole new appreciation for the holiday. I have always been one of those "the card makers made up this holiday" kinda person. Now, I still believe that Valentine's Day (like almost every holiday in America) has been extremely commercialized. But, I don't think I should throw the baby out with the bath water. So, "what is the story?", you ask. I'll tell you the short version:
There was a priest named Valentine who lived in ancient Rome. The Emperor decided that he needed more soldiers for his army so he passed a law that no one was allowed to get married anymore. Valentine secretly married couples and was caught. On Feb. 14th, he was beheaded for breaking the law. The Catholic church proclaimed this a holiday in 498 A.D. (about 200 years after Valentine's death)
So, what we are really honoring is the right we have to marry "under God". This gives me a good perspective about something I often take for granted. I live in a country and culture where I have the right to marry freely. I am not arranged to marry anyone and I did not disgrace my family by being born a girl. How often am I truly thankful for that?

As far as our Valentine festivities go, we had a great day! I will be posting pictures and what not tomorrow (if I can get all those pictures :)

Surgery

It has been a crazy week around here. 8 days ago my dad decided to finally go into the doctor after being sick (flu like symptoms) for over a couple of months. He got to the doctor and was sent immediately to the ER. After running a couple of tests and determining that nothing was extremely imminent, they waited another 4 hours for a room to be admitted.

By the next day, they were running lots of tests, doing a CT and MRI and what not. It didn't take long before they discovered a large mass in my dad's abdomen. They decided that surgery was necessary and scheduled him for Tuesday (3 days ago). As the doctor's talked throughout the next couple days, my parents realized that even though no one had said so, they were pretty sure they were going to find cancer.

All of sudden, the mood changed. We started to see that we were up against a large tumor and a dangerous surgery. The surgeon shared the different complications and difficulties they were anticipating. He said the surgery should last about 4 hours.

So, I had some great friends and family offer to stay with my kids so that I could spend the day at the hospital. I was prepared for a long and anxious day. I brought some cards, a book and my journal.

I got there around 12:30 and he was just being taken back to the OR. Around 1:30, we got a call from the surgeon that the anesthesia had taken effect and they were ready to begin. We all settled in for a long afternoon.

At 2:30 (only 1 hour into the surgery), our name was called and the surgeon was standing in the doorway. Everyone's heart skipped a beat until we heard the words we were not expecting, "We're done." What? Yep, all done and headed to recovery. Now we are all in a state of shock. So, my mom and brother and I head into a room with the surgeon to hear how everything went.

He said that things went way better than expected and that none of the complications they expected came about. He said that the tumor came out easily and they think they got it all. He said that he is almost sure that we are looking at is lymphoma.  They believe it is the type that is slow moving and non-aggressive.  It was such a roller coaster of emotions and I'm sure there will be more coming.

Right now, my dad is recovering in the hospital and waiting to hear the pathology report (to know for sure what kind of cancer) and to talk to the oncologist to determine what the future treatment will be.

We know the Lord is in complete control of everything and has already shown His hand through this process.  Thank you Lord for your protection over my dad during the surgery and for preparing this tumor to be removed so easily.  

Park Day with Mimi and Papa

Mimi and Papa came to Orlando last weekend to celebrate Sydney, Cory and Allison's birthdays (all in February). We spent a couple hours on Saturday at the park. It was a beautiful day and Papa took some great pictures of the kiddos.

Here is the almost birthday girl

My little man

Sweet Avery girl

Morgan and Annalise couldn't be separated

All the kids together (not including Allison who was taking a nap at the time)Only 1 week from today and Sydney will officially be 7 years old.

BeCentsable Aired on GMA Today!

Here is the link to check out the story on Good Morning America.

Publix Weekly Deals and Coupons for 2/12-2/18

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


Hershey's Bag Candy (bogo @ $5.49/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 11/9
Makes them $1.75 a bag

Fast Classics Flame Roasted Chicken Breast ($7.99/2)
Use $1/1 printable
Makes them $3 a bag

Honey Bunches of Oats (bogo @ $4.09/2)
Use $1/2 SS 1/25
Makes them $1.54 a box

Post Cereal (bogo @ $4.17/2 - includes Fruity or Cocoa Pebbles, Honey-Comb or Alpha-bits)
Use $1/2 SS 1/25
Makes them $1.57 a box

Betty Crocker Cookie Mix (bogo @ $2.19/2)
Use 2 $.40/1 or 2 $.50/1 printable from GM 2/8
Makes them $.70 each

Quaker Baked Bars (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use 2 $.55/1 from RP 1/4
Makes them $1.10 each

Chef Boyardee (5/$5)
Use $.35/3 from SS 1/4
makes them $.89 a can

Juicy Juice 8 pk (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use $1/1 printable
Makes them $.65 a box

Lipton Tea Bags (bogo @ $2.53/2)
Use 2 $.60/1 or 1 $.75/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $.66 - $.82 a box

Kraft Salad Dressing (bogo @ $4.09/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/18
Makes them $1.54 a bottle

Ken's Steak House Marinade (bogo @ $2.79/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 1/11
Makes them $.40 a bottle

Sara Lee Bread (2/$4)
Use $1 off milk wyb Sara Lee bread taped on outside of bread

M&M's Bags (bogo @ $4.69/2)
Use 2 $1/1 AND $1/3 (Target coupon) from RP 2/1
Makes them $1 a bag (when you buy 6)

International Delight Creamer (bogo @ $2.10/2)
Use $1/1 printable
Makes them $.05 each!!

Shedd's Spread ($2.37/2)
Use $.25/1 or $.50/1 from RP 1/18
Makes the $.67 - $.92 each

Green Giant Fresh Steamers (50%)
Use $.50/1 from GM 1/4 or 2/8

Farm Rich Cheese Sticks (bogo @ $7.69/2)
Use 2 $.75/1 printable
Makes them $3.10 a box

Milk-bone Dog Biscuits (bogo @ $3.79/2)
Use bogo coupon from RP 2/1
Makes them both FREE!!

South Beach Living Bars (bogo @ $8.49/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 2/8 or $2/1 printable
Makes them $2.25 - $3.25 a box

Breathe Right Nasal Strips (bogo @ $5.29/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from SS 2/8
Makes them $1.65 a box

More BOGO Deals with NO Coupons:
Betty Crocker ($1.95/2)
Shedd's Country Crock Mashed Potatoes ($3.59/2)
Bantry Bay Mussels ($4.99/2)
Flatout Bread ($2.69/2)
Barilla Pasta Sauce ($2.75/2)
Pillsbury Brownie Mix ($1.99/2)
Nabisco Cookies ($3.79/2)
Thomas English Muffins ($2.99/2)
Simply Potatoes ($2.57/2)
Swiss Miss Pudding ($2.50/2)
Stouffer's French Bread Pizza ($3.19/2)
Pepperidge Farm 3 Layer Cake ($3.99/2)
Publix Premium O.J. (2/$5)

Winn-Dixie Deals and Coupons for 2/11-2/17

M&M's Valentine (bogo @ $3.79/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from RP 2/1
Makes them $.90 a bag

Winn-Dixie Milk ($2.99/gallon)

Progresso Soups (bogo @ $2.50/2)
Use $1/2 printable or $.50/2 from GM 1/4 or $2/4 printable or $1/3 printable
Makes them $.75 - $1 a can

Post Cereal (bogo @ $3.99/2 - includes Fruity or Cocoa Pebbles, Alpha-bits or Chocolate Honeycomb, Honey Bunches of Oats, Honeycomb or Cinna-Graham Honeycomb, Big Biscuit Shredded Wheat, Bran Flakes, Spoon Size Shredded Wheat, Raisin Bran or Grape Nuts)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/25
Makes them $1.50 a box

Kellogg's Corn Flakes or Froot Loops ($1.77)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.02 a box

Knorr Sides ($10/10)
Use $.60/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $.70 a bag

Campbell's Cream Soups ($10/10)
Use $.40/2 or $.25/3 from SS 1/4
Makes them $.80 - $.92 a can

Del Monte Fruit ($10/10)
Use $1/12 from RP 2/8
Makes them $.92 a can

Pop Secret Popcorn (bogo @ $4.79/2)
Use $.50/2 from SS 1/4, 1/25 or 2/8
Makes them $2.15 a box

Ocean Spray Drinks (bogo @ $4.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from RP 1/11
Makes them $1.50 each

More BOGO items w/NO Coupons:
Doritos ($3.99/2)
Kellogg's Eggo Syrup ($3.39/2)
Pepperidge Farm 3-layer cake ($4.49/2)
Kahiki Asian Entress ($3.99/2)
Zesta or Krispy Saltine Crackers ($3.19/2)
Arnold Soft and Natural Bread ($2.79/2)
Nestle Hot Chocolate Mix ($1.99/2)

10/$10 items (you don't have to buy 10 items to get the product at that price)
Chef Boyardee (save up to $.39 on each)
Bisquick Shake 'n Pour (save up to $.49 on each)
Hunt's pasta sauce/Del Monte Sloppy Joe Mix (save up to $.69 on each)
Powerade, Fuze, Smartwater, Glaceau, Vitamin Water (save up to $.99 on each)
Martha White Muffin Mix, Jell-O Pudding or Gelatin (save up to $.50 on each)

Publix Rebate Gift Card

I hope you have seen these in your Publix. If not, you should look around or ask and find them. They have a full page of Publix store coupons for the products on the front of the page. You can combine these with manufacturer coupons and make for a sweet deal and then fill out the rebate form to get either a $5 or $10 Publix gift card. For a great post on this deal, click here.I finally went today and bought enough Kimberly-Clark products to qualify for the $10 gift card rebate. I bought 20 individual rolls of Viva paper towels and used 20 $1/1 from inside this folder. My totarl was $16 and I will get a $10 gift card in the mail. So, really it was $6 for 20 rolls of paper towels. My friend used this rebate for the Huggies diapers which works out to be about $13 for 2 packs of diapers and 2 packs of wipes (after the rebate).

Free Breakfast at Denny's

For those of who didn't hear about the free Grand Slam breakfast at every Denny's in America for every person in America, you missed out. On Tuesday, Denny's was doing this promotion from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. There were no stipulations and you didn't even have to order a drink.

We knew the lines would be long but we didn't realize how cold it would be waiting outside. So, here is the crazy part... My sister-in-law, my husband and I went together with a total of 9 kids! I was watching my friend's 3 kids for the day, plus my 4 and Jaime's 2. So, we had a 9, 8, 6, 5, 4, 4, 2, and 2 year old plus a 6 month old baby.
Even though the line was wrapped around the building, we only had to wait 30 minutes to be seated. Unfortunately, that entire 30 minutes was outside in the cold and wind. We made it through and sat our 12-top party down and ordered 11 FREE Grand Slams. The kids loved it and we loved seeing the check at the end.

Did anyone else brave the crowds and the cold for some free food? It just goes to show how cheap I really am :)

Publix Deals and Coupons for 2/5-2/11

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 Ice Cream (2/$6)

Idahoan Mashed Potatoes ($.50)
Use $.75/3 printable
Makes them $.25 a bag

Boneless Pork Loin ($1.99/lb.)

Publix Eggs ($1.39/dozen)

Publix Milk ($3.29/gallon)

French Bread ($1.29/loaf)

Angel Soft TP ($1.89/4 rolls)
Use $.50/1 from RP 12/14
Makes them $1.39 a package

Campbell's Select Harvest Soup (bogo @ $2.45/2)
Use $.50/2 from SS 12/14 or 1/4
Makes them $.92 a can

Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks (bogo @ $2.81/2)
Use $.50/2 from GM 1/4 or $.75/2 printable
Makes them $1.03 - $1.15 a box

GM Cereal (bogo @ $3.99/2 - includes Lucky Charms, Cookie Crisp, Reese's Puffs, Kix, Golden Grahams, Cinnamon Toast Crunch)
Use $.55/1 printable or $1/3 from GM 1/4
Makes them $1.45 - $1.66 a box

Kellogg's Frosted Mini-Wheats (bogo @ $4.31/2)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18 or $1/1 printable
Makes them $1.15 - $1.40

Knorr Sides (bogo @ $1.65/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from RP 1/18
Makes them $.32 a bag

Uncle Ben's Rice (bogo @ $1.49/2)
Use $1/2 from RP 1/11 or $1/2 printable
Makes them $.25 a box

Pillsbury Cake Mix (bogo @ $1.69/2)
Use $1/2 or 2 $.40/1 from RP 1/11
Makes them $.35 - $.40 a box

Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing (bogo @ $3.71/2)
Use 2 $2 wyb 2 Publix bag salad from Publix adv. mag.
Makes both free! (with overage)

WISE Cheez Doodles (bogo @ $2.99/2)
Use 2 $.50 printable
Makes them $1 a bag

Ppp-Secret Popcorn (bogo @ $4.83/2)
Use $.50/2 from SS 1/4 or 1/25
Makes them $2.16 a box

Farm Rich French Toast Sticks (bogo @ $3.29/2)
Use 2 $.75/1 printable
Makes them $.90 a box

Land O Lakes Spread (bogo @ $2.09/2)
Use $.55/1 printable or $.50/1 SS 1/25
Makes it $.49 - $.54 each

Kozy Shack Pudding (bogo @ $3.19/2)
Use 2 $.55/1 from SS 11/2 or 2/1
Makes them $1.09 each


Toufayan Pita Bread ($1.29/2)
Swiss Miss Mix ($1.99/2)
Cheez-It Crackers ($4.09/2)
Nabisco Honey-Maid Grahams ($4.09/2)
Entenmann's Donuts ($4.29/2)
Snickers Minis ($10.99/2)
Sara Lee (50% off)

Winn-Dixie Deals and Coupons for 2/4-2/10

Kellogg's Froot Loops or Corn Flakes ($1.77)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.02 a box

Kellogg's Cereal (bogo @ $4.99/2 - includes Special K, Froot Loops, Corn Pops, Frosted Flakes, Rice Krispies)
Use $1.50/2 from RP 1/18
Makes them $1.75 a box

Fiber One Toaster Pastries (bogo @ $3.49/2)
Use 2 $1/1 printable
Makes them $.75 a box

Chex Mix Bars (bogo @ $3.49/2)
Use 2 $.60/1 printable
Makes them $1.15 a box

Welch's Juice (bogo @ $4.79/2)
Use $1/2 from SS 1/11
Makes them $1.90 a bottle

Progresso Soup (bogo @ $2.50/2)
Use $.50/2 from GM 1/4 or $1/2 printable or $1.10/1 printable or $2/4 printable
Makes them $.15 - $1 a can

Nabisco Honey Maid Grahams (bogo @ $3.99/2)
Use $2/2 from SS 1/25
Makes them $1 a box

More BOGO deals with NO Coupons:
OM Lunch Meats ($4.59/2)
Italian or French Bread ($2.49/2)
Thomas Bagels ($3.99/2)
Chuck Full O' Nuts Coffee ($3.99/2)
Oreo Cakesters ($3.99/2)
WISE Chips ($3.09/2)

Spent $79 and Saved $311!!

That's right, folks! This last week was one of my favorites in a long time. The picture below is not great because my camera is broken and I have to use my phone to take pictures right now.
This trip included groceries for my family, my sis-in-law's family and a mom and 3 kids staying with us. It's hard to see everything in the picture, but I will highlight just a few things.

14 boxes of rice krispies (and 14 free bags of marshmallows from the coupon on the boxes)
18 boxes of granola bars
12 boxes of velveeta
8 bags of Voila meals
6 Kraft mayo
16 cans of Rotel (raincheck from last week)

I used 3 $10/40 (from Whole Foods), 1 $10/50 (from Winn-Dixie), 1 $5/50 (from Albertson's).
I also had $98 in coupons!!

It was such a fun trip and I always to go at this time and location in the future. The store was very slow because it was an hour before they close. The manager rang me up so I didn't have to worry about calling over a manager to override all those coupons. Also, she closed down her lane to take care of me because they were so slow so there wasn't anyone waiting behind me. It was a great, relaxing trip to Publix.
I totally agree with their slogan that "shopping IS my pleasure!".

"Mommy, are bad people REAL?"

Jordan has been fascinated lately by Superhero's and good vs. evil. All day long he fights the bad guys and thoroughly enjoys dressing up as Spiderman, Batman, Luke Skywalker or a Power Ranger.
Today, however, he asked me a very good question...
"Mommy, are bad people REAL?"
Me: "Yes, they are."
Jordan: "Well, what planet do they live on?"
Me: (trying not to laugh) "Earth". Now, I am starting to realize that "bad people" in his head are super villains. So, I clarify.. "The bad people in the movies are not real."
Jordan: (with his most matter-of-fact voice) "Well, there ARE bad people on Saturn in the volcanoes"
Me: (now really trying not to laugh) "o.k."
Jordan: "Are superheros real?" OH MY!

Madagascar II

Madagascar II finally made it to the dollar theater around here.  My kids have been so excited to see this and so have Cory and I.  So, we went to the matinee showing yesterday with some friends and family.

I was actually very disappointed.  We enjoyed the first movie so much and we can watch it over and over and still find it funny.  However, this sequel had tons of sexual innuendos, crude language, a story line that was lacking and what seemed to be... a hidden agenda.  

I am glad we only paid $1 for this movie.  What a bummer.

Tale of Despereaux is also playing there now.  I have heard mixed things about this movie.  We might try and check this out on Tuesday (all day it's only $.75/person).