Menu Plan Monday, February 28-March 6

Wow!  I cannot believe that March starts this week!  Unbelievable!  I know February is a short month and all, but it seems to have flown by this year!

I am not going to have any recipes with whole chickens this week because I don't have much time to roast one this week, BUT I wanted to post this great sale on whole roasting chickens.  Right now at Michael's Meats and Seafood (Lacey and Aberdeen), you can get a "huge" Roasting Chicken for $1.39 EACH (only through tomorrow-March 1)!  I am definitely going to go get a couple and stick them in my freezer for later!  You can visit their website here for other weekly deals.

Another note (again) about my produce.  I do get it from Full Circle Farms every two weeks (I could get it weekly, but that would be way too much produce).  They are a CSA that provides (and delivers in some areas!) organic, locally grown produce at VERY affordable prices.  Through March 1, you can get $15 off of your first order.  For more details, check out my post here!

Here is my weekly meal plan for the week:

Monday-Honey and Orange Chicken, Risotto, Steamed Broccoli

Tuesday-Dilly Whoppers, Classic Macaroni Salad, Cooked Beets

Wednesday-Wowie Maui Meatballs, Green Salad, Rolls

Thursday-Whistle While You Wok, Rolls

Friday-Pizza

Saturday-Friend's house for dinner :)

Sunday-Jamaican Me Hungry, Tropical Fruit Salsa, Rice Mix, Hawaiian Rolls

For MANY more meal plan ideas, visit I'm An Organizing Junkie's Menu Plan Monday linky here!

Jamaican Me Hungry!

Makes 6 Servings

Marinade
1/3 cup chopped green onions (with white parts)
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp liquid honey
1 tbsp grated gingerroot
2 tsp minced garlic
2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced (wear gloves!)
2 tsp ground allspice
1 tsp each dried thyme, salt and ground black pepper
1/2 tsp each ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg

12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 1/4 pounds)

1.  Whisk together all marinade ingredients in a medium bowl.  Place chicken thighs in a large, heavy-duty, resealable plastic bag.  Add marinade and seal bag.  Turn bag several times to coat chicken with marinade.  Marinate in the refrigerator overnight.

2.  Preheat grill to medium setting.  Remove chicken from marinade (discard marinade) and place on a grill rack that has been coated with cooking spray or lightly brushed with oil.  Grill for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is no longer pink in the center.  Be careful not to burn the chicken.

3.  Serve hot chicken with Tropical Fruit Salsa.

Recipe taken from

Whistle While You Wok

Makes 6 Servings

8 oz uncooked whole wheat rotini pasta (about 3 cups) (can substitute spaghetti)

Sauce
1/2 cup orange juice
1/3 cup hoisin suace
2 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 1/2 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp each grated gingerroot and toasted sesame oil
1 tsp minced garlic
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds), cut into thin strips or cubes
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups halved medium-sized mushrooms
1 large red bell pepper, cut into strips
1/2 cup frozen green peas
1/3 cup coarsely chopped green onions
10 fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped

1.  Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain.  Rinse with cold water and drain again.  Set aside.

2.  Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a small medium bowl.  Set aside.

3.  Spray a large, non-stick wok with cooking spray and place over high heat.  Add chicken and cook, stirring often, until chicken is lightly browned on the outside but still pink in the center.  Add broccoli, mushrooms, and red pepper.  Cook and stir until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 6 minutes.  Add 1/4 cup water to prevent sticking, if necessary.  Add peas and onions.  Cook 1 minute more.  Add sauce and basil.  Continue cooking until sauce is bubbly and has thickened, about 1 minute.  Add rotini and cook 1 minute more, just until rotini is heated through.  Serve hot.

Recipe taken from

Tropical Fruit Salsa

1 cup diced fresh pineapple
1 cup diced fresh mango
1/4 cup each minced red onion, minced red bell pepper, and mince green bell pepper
1 tbsp minced fresh cilantro
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
1 tsp granulated sugar
1/4 tsp salt

Combine all ingredients in a bowl.  Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Recipe taken from

Classic Macaroni Salad

Makes about 4 servings

·         2 cups cooked macaroni, drained, rinsed, cooled

·         2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped

·         1/4 cup chopped celery

·         1/4 cup chopped onion

·         1/3 to 1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing

·         2 teaspoons sugar

·         2 teaspoons vinegar

·         1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

·         1/2 teaspoon prepared mustard

·         pepper, to taste

Preparation:

Combine all macaroni salad recipe ingredients, using about 1/3 cup of mayonnaise and stir well. Add a little more mayonnaise, if necessary. Taste and adjust seasonings. Cover and chill for several hours before serving. 

Recipe taken from About.com

Dilly Whoppers

Makes 6 Servings

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless salmon fillets, cut into chunks
1 cup fresh whole wheat bread crumbs
1/2 cup crumbled light feta cheese (2 oz)
1/4 cup minced shallots
1 tbsp honey mustard
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 egg
1 tbsp minced fresh dill
1 tsp grated lemon zest
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper

1.  Place salmon chunks in a food processor.  Pulse on and off until salmon is chopped into very small pieces.  (If you don't have a food processor, use a very sharp knife and mince salmon by hand.)  Transfer salmon to a large bowl.  Add remaining ingredients.  Mix will using your hands.

2.  Form mixture into 6 patties, about 3/4 inch thick.  Place patties on a large plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour. (Chilling will help the patties hold their shape while cooking)

3.  Spray a large, non-stick skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat.  Add patties and cook for about 4 minutes per side, until salmon is cooked through.  Be careful not to overcook the patties, and be gentle when flipping them so that they don't fall apart.  If you don't have a high-quality (unscratched!) non-stick pan, you might want to cook the patties in a tablespoon or two of olive oil.

4.  If desired, serve patties on small, whole wheat hamburger buns with sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and honey mustard, or top them with a spoon of low-fat tarter sauce (below) and serve with salad.

Low-Fat Tarter Sauce
1/2 cup low-fat mayonnaise
1 tbsp minced fresh dill
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
2 tsp each prepared horseradish and freshly squeezed lemon juice

Mix together and refrigerate until ready to use.

Recipe taken from

Wowie Maui Meatballs

Makes 2-40 Batch Meatballs

Meatballs

3 lbs extra-lean ground beef

1/2 cup hoisin sauce

1/2 cup dry unseasoned bread crumbs

6 tbsp finely minced green onions

2 tbsp minced fresh cilantro

2 eggs

4 tsp minced garlic

2 tsp grated gingerroot

2 tsp toasted sesame oil

1/2 tsp each salt and pepper

Sauce
2/3 cup barbecue sauce
10 tsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp grated gingerroot
4 tsp liquid honey
2 tsp toasted sesame oil

For Recipe Now
40 1-inch chunks of fresh pineapple
20 1-inch chunks of red bell pepper
20 1-inch chunks of green bell pepper
10 12-inch metal skewers

1.  Preheat oven to 400°F.  Spray a rimmed cookie sheet or large baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.

2.  To make meatballs, combine all meatball ingredients in a large bowl (using your hands works best).  Form meat mixture into 80 1-to 1 1/2-inch meatballs.  Place on prepared pan.

3.  Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.  Remove and set aside 40.  Cook other 40 and put into labeled freezer bags for freezing.

4.  To make sauce, whisk together barbecue sauce, soy sauce, gingerroot, honey and sesame oil in a small bowl.  Divide into two portions.  Set one aside.  Put the other into a freezer safe container, label and freeze.

5.  Preheat grill to high setting (or broil on oven).  For each skewer, thread meatballs, pineapple, red pepper, and green pepper in this order:  1 meatball, 1 piece pineapple, 1 piece red pepper, 1 meatball, 1 piece pineapple, 1 piece green pepper, then repeat, so that each skewer contains 4 meatballs, 4 pieces of pineapple, 2 pieces of red pepper and 2 pieces of green pepper.

6.  Spray grill rack or broiling pan with cooking spray or brush lightly with oil.  Grill skewers for 12 to 15 minutes, turning and basting generously with half of the sauce every 2 minutes.

Recipe taken and modified from

LAST DAY FOR FULL CIRCLE FARMS PROMOTION!

Today is the LAST DAY to save $15 off of your first order from Full Circle Farms.  If you want to take advantage of these savings (almost 50% off a couple's size box!), go here to register.  When you are registering make sure you put my name (Sandra Shaw) in the "How did you hear about us field" and the promotional code EATHEALTHY in the promo box in order to get your $15 discount.  Full Circle Farms is a great way to save some money on organic produce while making sure you are eating healthy and supporting local business!  Go here to read my post explaining what kind of business they are and how you get your produce!  :)

GROUPON: $89 for 1-night Hilton hotel stay + Zoo Tickets or Golf Credit!

Groupon (Salem, OR) is offering a one night stay at the Hilton Garden Inn plus either Oregon Zoo Tickets (a FAMILY pass!) or 2 nine hole rounds of golf at Charbonneau Golf Club for only $89!  The Golf package comes with breakfast for two in the morning as well!  AND this price covers the hotel tax!   This is a smokin' hot deal if you are planning on going to the Portland area in the near future!  The zoo package is worth up to $170 and the golf package is worth up to $206!

You are allowed to buy up to 5 and 2 more additional as gifts.  You can only use one voucher per visit.  The stay has to be between Thursday and Sunday (weekend!).  Expires March 3, 2012.

To get this deal for yourself, go here.  If you have not signed up, you can do so for free.

3 Redbox Rentals for $1!!

Today through Groupon you can get 3 Redbox rentals for only $1!!  In order to get this deal, you will have to click on THIS unique code because it is not part of a specific city's daily deal, it is a national deal.  If you have not yet registered for Groupon, it is okay.  Just click here and register and then buy your deal!  :)

Planning a vacation? Use EBATES and earn some cash back!!

Are you starting to plan your summer vacations?  How about Spring break vacation?  I have a way that you can get a percentage of your costs BACK in the form of a CHECK!  Yes, cash in your pocket for doing what you would have done anyways!!!

You can earn a percentage of your purchase back on almost anything you buy online through Ebates.  How can this be, you ask?  Ebates gets a "cut" of your purchase for "referring" you to the online store you are purchasing from.  Ebates then gives YOU part of this cut!!  It is awesome!

You can earn 5% back on your Southwest Airlines purchase, up to 4% back on Travelocity, 5% back on Budget and Avis car rentals, 4.5% on Hotels.com, 10.5% on VRBO(!), up to 3% on Orbitz, and MANY more.  These are just some examples of the TRAVEL percentages back.  They have TONS of online stores you can buy from and earn even more!  Places like Diapers.com, Barnes and Noble, Kodak Gallery, Snapfish, Ebay, Best Buy, Staples, Groupon, etc.  The only place I have found they don't have (besides smaller independent businesses) is Amazon.  I REALLY hope they contract with them SOON!  I buy A LOT on Amazon!

How to get started with Ebates:

Go here to sign up.  It is totally FREE and you will get $5 automatically just for signing up!!  This isn't CREDIT, it is actual CASH that they will send you in the form of a check!  These checks are mailed out about once a quarter.  I have already received two checks.  I LOVE IT!

Search for the online store you are making a purchase from.  When you find it, Ebates will tell you what the percentage of cash back you will get PLUS it will list all the promo codes that store is currently running (another perk!).

Click on the orange "Shop Now" button and you will be redirected to the online store you are buying from.  Everything after that is just as it would have been if you would not have used Ebates, but now you are earning a percentage back!!!  :)

Only 3 More Days to Save on Your Produce!

From now until March 1 (only 3 days away!  Crazy, huh!?), you can save $15 off of your first order from Full Circle Farms through their referral promotion.  Full Circle Farms is part of a CSA and delivers fresh, organic produce.  I get it twice a week and can tell you the quality and variety is phenomenal.  They deliver to your door or they have pickup locations all over Washington and some in Alaska.

All you need to do to get your own produce is:

1.  Go to Full Circle Farms here.

2.  Register with them and chose what size order, how often you want your order and where you will pick it up.  There are two options for sizes.  One is a two person size and it is $32 a week.  The other is a family size and it is $41 a week.  You can get it once a week or every other week.  They do not currently deliver to your door in all areas, but the places they don't deliver to, they have many pick up locations around town.

3.  Check out.  In order to get the $15 off your first order, you need to enter Sandra Shaw in the "how did you hear about us" field and you need to enter EATHEALTHY in the promo field.

4.  Enjoy your yummy, fresh, organic produce!!

Remember, this offer is only until March 1st, so hurry and order yours today.

LAST DAY TO ORDER CHICKEN!!!

Today is the LAST day to put in your order for the Zaycon chicken sale.  There are many drop off locations around Washington, so check and see if you have one in your town.  Zaycon Foods is selling fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for only $1.59 a pound!!!  I got 60 pounds the last time they were having a sale locally (in November), and we have almost used it all up!  

To see if there is a sale near you, go here and register.  If you want in on the current sale, go here and register and place an order.  Remember, orders must be placed by TODAY!

$10 for $50 in Vistaprint Credit!

Wow!  What a sweet deal!  Living Social is offering $50 worth of credit to Vistaprint for only $10!  You can spend this on calendars, business cards, photo gifts, etc.  If you are starting a new business or even just looking for a great way to show off your favorite photos, you should definitely snag this deal!!  You can only get one per person and the voucher expires in May.

If you are new to Living Social, you can sign up for free here.  If you already have a Living Social account, click here to see the deal!  :)

Thanks, Become Shoppertunistic!

$2 for 5 Movie Rentals from Blockbuster Express

Groupon is offering 5 movie rentals from Blockbuster Express for only $2!  This is only being offered for the next three and a half hours, so grab it while you can!!  Also, if you do it through Swagbucks, you can get 85 bucks just for doing so!!

Menu Plan Monday, February 21-27

Sorry I never got a meal plan out last week!  I had such a busy weekend last weekend!  Here is the menu plan for this week, though.  Once again, recipes from Eat, Shrink and Be Merry.  I ordered a new cookbook (by the same authors of course) and it should be here soon!  I am sooooo excited!!!

Just on a side note, I get my vegetables from Full Circle Farms.  They are currently running a promotion from now until March 1 and you could get $15 off your first order!  Go here to find out how!

Also, all my chicken came from Zaycon foods.  They are also going to be in the area (WA areas) at the end of the month.  Go here to find out how you can get boneless, skinless chicken breasts for only $1.59 a pound!!

Monday-Salsa, Chicken and Rice Casserole (two meals), Green Salad

Tuesday-Life in the Fast Loin, Sauteed Swiss Chard, Dinner Rolls

Wednesday-Pie Caramba!, Green Salad

Thursday-Green Bean Chicken Casserole (out of the freezer), Dinner Rolls

Friday-Date Night!  Eating out!  :)

Saturday-Chicken Pandemoniyum, Steamed Broccolette, Dinner Rolls

Sunday-Just Stew It, Green Salad, Dinner Rolls

Check out I'm An Oragnizing Junkie's linky for HUNDREDS of other weekly meal plans!

Zaycon Foods Chicken

Zaycon Foods will officially be delivering to Olympia on February 25th!  Go here to order your chicken at only $1.59 a pound!!  There are other places they will be delivering to as well.  Go here to sign up and check to see if you are in one of those areas.  Hurry before they sell out!!!

Chicken Pandemoniyum

Makes 4 Servings

3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/4 pounds)
2 tsp olive oil
3 cups sliced mushrooms
3/4 cup chopped onions
1 tsp minced garlic
1 pkg (6 oz) Uncle Ben's Long Grain and Wild Rice original recipe
1 1/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1.  Cut chicken breasts into large chunks (about 6 pieces per breast).  Heat oil in a 10-inch, non-stick skillet with a tight-fitting lid.  Add chicken pieces and cook over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes, stirring often, until chicken in lightly browned all over.  Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

2.  Add mushrooms, onions and garlic to the same skillet.  Cook and stir until vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes.  If vegetables start to stick, add a little water or broth.

3.  Add rice and seasoning pouch.  Mix well and cook for 30 seconds.  Stir in broth and wine.  Return chicken to skillet.  Bring mixture to a boil.  Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.  Remove from heat.  Let stand, covered, for 10 minutes.  Stir Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Recipe taken from

Just Stew It!

Makes 6 Servings

2 lbs stewing beef, but into 1 1/2 inch cubes
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tsp olive oil, divided
1 1/2 cups chopped onions
1 cup chopped celery
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tsp Herbs de Provence (found with spices at the store)
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp each salt and pepper
2 cups chopped carrots
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tbsp each cornstarch and chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup frozen green peas
1 1/2 cups Bisquick baking mix
1/3 cup milk
1/2 tsp dried rosemary, or 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

1.  Trim beef of fat and sprinkle with flour.  Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large, non-stick pot over medium-high heat.  Add half the beef cubes and cook until lightly browned.  Remove from pot and set aside.  Repeat process with remaining 1 tsp olive oil and beef cubes.

2.  Return all beef cubes to pot.  Add onions, celery, and garlic.  Cook and stir until onions begin to soften, about 5 minutes.  Stir in herbs.  Cook 1 minute more.  Add broth, vinegar, tomato paste, sugar, salt, and pepper.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 1 hour.  Add carrots and simmer 20 minutes more.

3.  Combine sour cream, cornstarch and parsley in a small bowl.  Add to stew along with green peas.  Mix well.  To make dumplings, combine baking mix with milk and rosemary in a medium bowl.  Stir with a fork until smooth.  Drop dough by teaspoonfuls over hot stew.  Cover with a tight fitting lid.  Simmer 20 more minutes without lifting lid.  Dumplings should be puffed up and dry to touch.  Serve hot.

Recipe taken from

Sauteed Swiss Chard

4 Servings

1 1/2 tbsp butter
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
4 tsp minced garlic
1 pinch crushed red pepper
2 bunches swiss chard, stems trimmed, leaves cut into half inch wide pieces
Juice of half a lemon
Salt

1.  Melt butter and oil in large non-stick skillet over medium heat.  Add garlic and crushed red pepper.  Saute until fragrant, about 1 minute.

2.  Add swiss chard and stir to coat.  Cover and cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes.

3.  Squeeze juice from half of lemon onto chard and season to taste with salt.

Recipe taken from Food.com

Life in the Fast Lion

Makes 4 Servings

Sauce
2/3 cup water
1/2 cup no-sugar-added apricot preserves
2 tbsp each balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard
3/4 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp each salt and ground pepper

4 boneless pork loin chops (about 5 oz each)
Salt and pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

1.  Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside.

2.  Sprinkle both sides of pork chops with salt and pepper and let stand for a few minutes.  Heat olive oil in a 10-inch, non-stick skillet over medium heat.  Add pork chops and cook for about 6 minutes per side, until nicely browned on the outside and just slightly pink in the center.  Cover skillet with lid if they are splattering.

3.  Remove pork chops from skillet, cover with foil, and keep warm.  Pour sauce into same skillet.  Using a whisk, cook and stir sauce for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens.  Make sure you scrape up any brown bits on the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.  Serve pork chops drizzled with hot apricot-mustard sauce.

Recipe taken from

Pie Caramba!

Makes 1 Pizza, 8 Slices

8 oz extra-lean ground beef
1/3 cup minced onions
1 tsp minced garlic
1/2 cup diced grape tomatoes
1/4 each grated carrots and diced green bell peppers
1/4 cup frozen or canned corn
1/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 tbsp minced fresh cilantro
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp each salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 12-inch, prebaked, thin-crust pizza shell
1 cup packed shredded light sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp minced green onions
Light sour cream, salsa and guacamole (optional)

1.  Preheat oven to 425°F.

2.  Spray a large, non-stick skillet with cooking spray.  Add beef, onions, and garlic.  Cook and stir over medium-high heat until beef is no longer pink.  Add tomatoes, carrots, green pepper, corn and beans.  Cook and stir for 2 more minutes.  Add cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper.  Cook 1 minute more.  Remove from heat.

3.  Spread pizza sauce evenly over crust.  Top with half the cheese.  Spoon beef mixture evenly over pizza.  Top with remaining cheese, followed by green onions.

4.  Place pizza directly on middle oven rack and bake form 10 to 12 minutes, or until cheese is completely melted and crust is lightly browned.

5.  Tastes great with fajita-like accompaniments, such as sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Recipe taken from
 

$10 for $25 for LetsGoGreen.biz

Daily Dealster is offering $25 in credit for LetsGoGreen.biz for only $10!  This was offered through Deal Pulp a while back and I totally snagged one!  This website sells things like CFL light bulbs, composting accessories, Camelbak waterbottles, green cleaners and other environmentally friendly items!  It is a great way to save some money on everyday items AND help out the environment!!  LetsGoGreen.biz offers free shipping on orders over $49, so it might be worth it to buy TWO so you get the free shipping!  To snag one for yourself, go to Daily Dealster here and sign up for FREE.  Then just purchase the deal.  I don't remember if this site offers a credit to new customers when they sign up, but if they do, that makes for an even sweeter deal!!

80 Swagbucks for New Users

If you have been debating about whether or not to join Swagbucks, today is the day to do so!  This week, to celebrate their third birthday, not only do you get the normal 30 Swagbucks just for joining, you can get 50 more using the code BirthdaySavers!!  That is 80 Swagbucks just for joining!  All you need to go is sign up here for FREE!  Make sure you enter the code for the extra bucks!

Swagbucks is a search engine similar to Google, but you earn Swagbucks randomly as you search (there are also a few other ways to earn them like daily deals, polls, and surveys).  You then trade these pretend "bucks" in for prizes.  They have a huge "store" of stuff to choose from including gift cards to Starbucks, Amazon, and I-Tunes.  I earn $5 Amazon gift cards ALL the time!  I then cash them in for FREE diapers on Amazon Mom!

$15 for a family pack of ticket to the Seattle Children's Museum

Groupon's daily deal today is $15 for a family pack of tickets to the Seattle Children's Museum (a $30 value).  I went there once when my oldest was small (so quite a while ago) and it was pretty fun.  Every time we go to Seattle Center, my middle son always wants to go to the Museum.  Now, we have tickets and won't have to splurge on full price tickets!  How fun!!  :)  To get in on this deal go here.  The deal expires in one year.  You can buy multiples as gifts.  Of course, I purchased mine through Swagbucks, so not only am I getting the deal, I am also getting 315 Swagbucks (an Amazon gift card is only 450!)!!

$5 Credit To Eversave-ONLY UNTIL 3PM!!!

If you have not signed up for Eversave, now would be the time to do so!!  If you sign up before 3pm, you will get $5 credit just for signing up!!  This could go a long way in making a deal REALLY good!  Go here to sign up.  It is totally free and they have some great daily deals!

Movie Tickets for $7.50 each!

Goldstar (an entertainment daily deal site) is offering 4 tickets to ANY Regal Cinema for only $30!  That is $7.50 a ticket!  The tickets are good for any showtime on any date (IMAX and 3-D have surcharges that will be paid at the box office) and they do not expire.  If you have not joined Goldstar, you can do so for free here.  Then look up the deals under Seattle.

Diapers.com: 15% Off Any One Item

Diapers.com has a 15% off one item code good now through February 21st.  It DOES NOT work on diapers, wipes, formula, food, and some other big name brand items (but not all of them), but you might be able to find a toy or maybe a car seat or stroller or other baby gear.  Just enter the code FEB15 when you checkout to get the discount.  Diapers.com always has free shipping on orders over $49.

Shepherds Pie

Makes 2 Casseroles (about 8 servings each)

3 pounds ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bag (16 oz) frozen mixed vegetables (or 2-3 cans of your favorite)
1 bottle (regular size, or to taste) barbecue sauce
3 pounds potatoes
1/2 cup butter
2 cups milk
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1.  Peel and cut up potatoes and boil until soft.  Make mashed potatoes with the milk and butter (or however you normally make mashed potatoes).

2.  Brown the ground beef with the onion.  Drain fat.  Mix in barbecue sauce and vegetables.

3.  Divide ground beef mixture between two 9 x 13 casserole dishes.  Top each casserole with half the mashed potatoes.  Sprinkle half the cheddar cheese on each of the casseroles.

4.  Cover both with foil and bake one at 350°F for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted.  Label and freeze the other casserole for up to 3 months.

TO USE FROZEN CASSEROLE:  Defrost the casserole in the refrigerator overnight.  Bake, covered, at 350°F for about 45 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.

Recipe by ME :)

Cheap Chicken ($1.59/lb for Breasts) Coming Soon!

I just got an email letting me know that Zaycon foods will be doing another chicken event in this area on February 25, 26, 28 and March 1!  They have fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for $1.59 a pound!  here are the places they will be having events:

• Kelso
• Rochester
• Tacoma
• Puyallup
• Kent (we hope – still searching for delivery location)
• Olympia (we hope – still searching for delivery location)
• Issaquah (we hope – still searching for delivery location)
• Lynnwood
• Everett
• Monroe (we hope – still searching for delivery location)
• Arlington (we hope – still searching for delivery location)
• Ellensburg (we hope – still searching for delivery location)
• Yakima

If you are interested in participating in this sale, go here to register at Zaycon Foods.  They will then send you an email with the exact dates and times of the delivery and when you can order your chicken.  The chicken does have to be purchased in 40 pound boxes.

I got 60 pounds back in November and have almost used it all up!!  So this is just in time!  It was really a great thing.  You place your order, then on the day of delivery, you just show up.  They put it in your car for you.  You don't even have to get out!  Last time, they were still searching for a place up until the week of, so don't let that deter you.  They will find a place to deliver.  :)

Ebates-Get Some Money Back From Everyday Purchases

Here is a copy of my most recent check from Ebates.  I know it isn't a ton of money, but if you are a strategic shopper like I am, you know how far I can make $9.27 stretch!  I got this check from shopping online for things I buy online anyway.  Over the holiday season, I purchased many my gifts for people online.  I also buy a lot of other gifts (like all my Valentine's gifts) online as well.  I use Ebates when I purchase daily deals, magazines, photos and photo books, etc.  You can earn anywhere from 2%-51% back on your purchase!  And it comes to you in the form of a check!

How does it work? All you have to do is go to the Ebates site here and shop from their site.  If you have not signed up, you can do so for free AND you automatically get $5 just for signing up!  Then, when you are planning on purchasing something, you look up the retailer you are going to buy from.  A list of retailers with that name or similar names will come up and it will tell you how much you can get back from your purchase.  There is also an option to see if they have any discounts or current sales and it will list the discount codes for you!  So, if the retailer you are looking for is offering free shipping with a certain code, it will list that for you.  

Once you have found the retailer you are looking for, you click on the "Shop Now" tab.  This will re-direct you to the site you want to go to.  Then all you do is buy what you were normally going to buy!  Ebates keeps track of all the times you went from their site to another site and it will post your credit within 2 months.  Sometimes it is posted within a couple of days.  

Basically this works because Ebates gets a cut of the sale just for "referring" you to the selling site.  Ebates just gives a little bit of that cut back to you, the customer.  :)  I have researched Ebates to make sure they aren't a scam and don't sell your information and they are a reputable site.  

Parenting the Early Years or Parenting School Years as low as $5!

Mamapedia is offering two year subscriptions to Parenting the Early Years or Parenting School Years for only $8!  If you are new to Mamapedia, you will automatically get a $2 when you sign up (it is free to do so) so the final price will only be $5 for a two year subscription!!  I know that Parenting the Early Years normally has Amazon codes for either diapers or baby stuff.  You will more than likely make more than $5 just using one of the codes in one of the magazines!  I don't know anything about Parenting School Years, but might be kind of fun for parents with older children.  I might subscribe just to see what it is and if there are any goodies in that version as well!  :)

To make this deal even sweeter is that if you do it through Ebates, you get an additional 4% back!  Ebates is also free and you even get $5 FREE just for signing up.  All you click from the Ebates site to the place you are going to be making a purchase (such as Mamapedia) and you will get a percentage (up to 51% sometimes!) back in the form of a CHECK!  It is not a scam, I promise.  I have gotten a couple checks from them already!!  

To get in on this deal, you can either go to Mamapedia through Ebates by searching for it or go to Mamapedia here.

Sign up if you have not done so (for free) and purchase the deal.  :)

The magazine will be sent to the address provided at check out and you will get your magazine in 6-8 weeks.  :)

GROUPON: $35 for $100 at Picaboo for Photo Books, Cards and Calendars

Groupon is offering $100 in credit to Picaboo for photo books, cards and calendars for only $35 again!!!  I got this deal a few weeks ago and am SO excited to use it this Christmas for photo books for the family.  This is SUCH a fantastic deal!!  To see the deal go here.  If it does not come up right away, look to the right and it should be an "online deal" in the side margin.  :)

ANOTHER FREE P&G Coupon Book!

There is another way to get FREE P&G coupons in the mail!  Go here and request up to $39 worth of coupons that you would like mailed to you.  I would suggest getting all of them because you never know when you might need one to make something FREE-you can always donate the item and write it off!

Thanks Coupon Connections NW!

WINNER-2 Year Subscription to Parenting the Early Years

Congratulations to Jenn, over at Coolest Family On The Block, won the two year subscription to Parenting the Early Years!

She said:

coolestfamilyontheblock said...

Shared on both:

http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=190603927625653&id=100001523588122

http://twitter.com/coolfamilyblog/status/33677754171916288

February 4, 2011 4:07 PM 

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:5Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Weekly Diaper Deals February 13-19

Sorry this is so late!  I have been pretty busy the last couple of days.  There are not any really great deals on diapers this week around town.  Amazon always can be a source of affordable diapers (if you happen to have the 20% off codes or $10 off coupons).  You can see how I get FREE or super cheap diapers on Amazon here and here.  In fact, I will probably grab some more FREE diapers this week from Amazon (because of Swagbucks and discount codes found in magazines)!

Here are a couple of okay deals around town:

Walgreens


If you aren't picky about brand, Walgreens has a decent deal on their diapers and wipes this week-

Buy one, Get one free

Buy 2 Walgreens Jumbo Pack Diapers @ $7.99 each = $15.98
    -$7.99 B1G1 = $7.99
    -$2/1 coupon found in new Infant Coupon book in store (will deduct $4-one for each pack)-also, ask the cashier if you can keep the coupon since it is good through the end of the year
    Final Price $3.99 for two packs of diapers, or $1.99 each!!

Buy 2 Walgreens tubs of wipes (64-72 ct) @ $2.49 = $4.98
    -$2.49 B1G1 = $2.49
    Final Price is $2.49 for 2 tubs of wipes or $1.24 each!

Walmart


Buy Pampers Jumbo Pack ($8.97) and Tub of Wipes ($1.97) = $10.94
    -$2 off both Pampers diapers and wipes from 1/30 P&G
    Final Price $8.94 for both diapers and wipes

Huggies Little Snugglers or Little Movers on sale for $8.97
    -$2/1 coupon here
    Final Price $6.97

TO VIEW THE COMPLETE LIST (as well as a list of coupon sources) GO TO The Thrifty Couple  :)

Rite Aid is going to be having a Huggies sale starting on the 20th, so if you don't NEED diapers this week, I would wait until then to buy :)

Parenting the Early Years Giveaway ending SOON

The giveaway for the two year subscription to Parenting the Early Years is ending TONIGHT (February 15) at 11pm!  There have only been NINE entries, so if you enter there is an extremely high chance of you winning!  Even if you don't want this for yourself, it would be a great gift to a new mom/dad!!  Go here to enter.  GOOD LUCK!

Kelty Child Carrier Giveaway at Mommy Katie

Our family loves to go hiking and backpacking.  We haven't gone much in the last year or so since I was pregnant and then we had a bitty baby.  This summer, though, we are totally going to go and are already gearing up.  We own a baby "backpack" that does the job, but it isn't totally fantastic.  I have always wanted something nicer to carry our little ones in.  Mommy Katie is giving away a Kelty Child Carrier backpack.  I have seen these at the store and they look AWESOME!  If you are in the market for a new carrier, you should head over to her blog here and check out her review.  And while you are there enter her giveaway!  :)

Rite Aid-Other Week 3 Transactions

Here is the one other transaction I did at Rite Aid last week:

2 Halls Cough Drops
    Reg. $1.99, On sale $1
    -$0.50/1 from 2/6 SS x 2
    -$0.50/1 Video Values here
    $1 UP+ REWARD wyb 2
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $0.50

Mini Drops Eye Therapy

    Reg. $9.99, On sale for $4.99

    -$1/1 printable here

    SINGLE CHECK REBATE for $4.00

    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $3.99

TOTAL DUE  $4.49

-$4 UP+ REWARDS
Subtotal  $0.49

TAX  $0.61

TOTAL OOP  $1.10

SAVED  $13.48

GOT $1 UP+ REWARD

SUBMITTING FOR $4.00 SINGLE CHECK REBATE

:)

Rite Aid Challenge-Week 4

So, I guess this would officially be my last week in this challenge.  I am kind of bummed because I really enjoy sharing my savings with you!  In fact, I will probably continue to do so just because!  :) Actually, I have one more week!!  :)  I just looked and I started the challenge on the 22nd of January!  Yeah because next week will be a fun diaper week!  This week was okay at Rite Aid.  Definitely not as good as last week, but not too bad.  A couple of good learning lessons (i.e. make sure to read the small print on the ad, make sure to grab the coupon for the right item, etc.).  Every time I go out to do this, it seems like there is something I learn.  This is a good thing.  It will help me teach others and help me so that I can be better prepared when I go, making life easier for all involved.  :)

Anyway....Here is the "loot" I scored this week:

Transaction #1

2 Colgate Sensitive
    Reg. $4.49, On sale $3.50
    -$1/1 coupon from 2/6 SS x 2
    $3.50 UP+ REWARDS each
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $5.00

4 Dove Deodorants
    Reg. $3.49, On sale $2
    -$2/1 coupon from 1/30 RP
    $2 UP+ REWARDS wyb 2
    4 FREE

2 Hormel Chili
    Reg. $1.99, On sale $1.50
    -$1/2 January Video Values NLA
    -$0.50/1 February Video Values here
    -$0.55/2 coupon from here
    $1 UP+ REWARD each
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $0.95

2 Chex Mix
    Reg. $2.99, On sale $1.10
    -$1/1 coupon from Safeway Joy of Football Book x 2
    -$0.50/1 Video Values here
    $1 UP+ REWARD each
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $0.50

GE CFL Light Bulb
    Reg. $5.49, On sale $2.99
    -$0.50/1 Video Values here
    $2 UP+ REWARD
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $2.49

2 Ziplock Containers (kind of a little splurge-needed them for homemade baby food)
    Reg. $3.79, on sale $2.50
    $2 UP REWARD wyb 2
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $5.00

Baby Aquaphor (something I just needed for my son-best to get it free right?!)
    Reg. $5.99, NOT ON SALE :(
    -$1/1 coupon from the doctor's office
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $4.99

2 Candy Bars (had to bring my total up, the UP+ Reward I wanted to use was in the form of $20-not broken down)
    2/$1
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $1

Easter Candy (see above explanation)
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $0.33

TOTAL DUE  $20.26
-$20 UP+ REWARDS
Subtotal  $0.26
TAX  $1.13
TOTAL OOP  $1.39
SAVED  $53.03
GOT $19 UP + REWARDS

Transaction #2

3 Gain Dish Washing Soap
    Reg. $1.49, On sale $0.87
    -$1/1 coupon from P&G coupon book x 2 (I accidentally grabbed the wrong 3rd one:( )
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $0.61

GE CFL Bulb
    This rang up as $0.99 (as the regular price)
    -$0.50/1 Video Values here
    TOTAL "PAID" TODAY  $0.49

TOTAL DUE  $1.10
-$1 UP+ REWARD
Subtotal  $0.10
TAX  $0.31
TOTAL OOP  $0.41
SAVED  $5.36 (the actual price of the bulb was not included in this total)

CHALLENGE TOTALS (this includes one other trip this last week-will post after this):

Shelf price of EVERYTHING:  $519.20

Amt. paid OOP on EVERYTHING (before tax):  $3.98

Amt. paid OOP on TAX:  $24.27

Total paid OOP on EVERTHING:  $28.25

Total amt SAVED:  $494.22!! 

TOTAL UP+ REWARDS left:  $24 UP+ REWARDS

TOTAL SINGLE CHECK REBATE AMT:  $70.96 (getting paid to me via CHECK!)

TOTAL OTHER REBATES:  $2.50

Not too bad for starting out with $20 credit!  :)

 

Albertsons Doubler Run 2/13

There were Albertson's "Twice the Value" (doubler) coupons in todays paper!!  YIPEEE!!  I had heard there was going to be, so I was completely prepared this morning for my run to Albertsons.  Here is what I was able to get:

Transaction #1

9 Hunts Snack Pack Puddings  reg. $1.99, on sale $1

    -$0.60/3 from 1/2 SS x 3

    =$7.20

12 Healthy Choice Soup  reg. $2.99, on sale for $1

    -$1/2 from 1/2 SS x 6

    + 3 Doublers

    =$3.00

Case of Snapple Tea  reg. $7.49, on sale for $5

    -$1/1 coupon 1/30 SS

    =$4.00

TOTAL OOP  $14.20, Got back a $10 OYNO Catalina from $25 spent on ConAgra products

Transaction #2

5 Cases of Snapple  reg. $7.49, on sale for $5

    -$1/1 coupon from 1/30 SS x 5

    + 3 Doublers

    =$17.00

Total  $17.00

-$10.00 Catalina from previous transaction

TOTAL OOP  $7.00, Got back another $10 catalina 

Transaction #3

Albertsons Star Wars Fruit Snacks (I had to get them for my son, he LOVES Star Wars!!!) 

    =$2.00

2 Oreos  reg. $2.79

    -$1/1 when you buy a gallon of milk NLA x 2

    + 2 Doublers

    =$1.58

2 Gallons of Milk  

    =$5.18

Darigold Sour Cream  reg. $2.29, on sale for $2

    -$0.40/1 from here

    + Doubler (he actually took off $1 instead of the $0.40)

Bananas

    =$2.21

TOTAL $11.57

-$10 Catalina from previous purchase

TOTAL OOP  $1.57

I am also going to submit for rebates on the Snapple!  This is a explanation from Coupon Connections NW.

A rebate can be sent for each member of your household. Put each persons Name, Address on their own 3X5 card. Include original receipt and UPC from each box. Rebate up to $6.99. Can be sent in same envelope. Rebate center phone number is 1 866 309 6256.

Mail to:
Snapple 6Pack Rebate offer
p.o. box 40896
Houston, TX 
77240 

I don't know how much I will be getting back from that, but she listed $4 per Snapple bought.  :)  SO here are my totals for this trip:

TOTAL OOP  $22.27

TOTAL REBATES  $24.00

DIFFERENCE:  I MADE $1.73!!!!

TOTAL SAVED  $93.82