Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Free $10 at Lettering Delights

I love new fonts-- for newsletters, for cards... and here's a chance to pick up $10 in free ones from Lettering Delights.

Go to their facebook page here:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lettering-Delights/148064725254?v=wall

and become a fan. They will reward you with a coupon code for $10 free!

Better hurry, won't last.

Free Honey Bunches of Oats

FREE CEREAL.

Honey Bunches of Oats cereal is on rollback at Walmart for $2 until September 30th.
Use this $2/1 Honey Bunches of Oats printable coupon to score some free cereal! Isn’t that the best kind?
Honey Bunches of Oats Cereal, $2$2/1 Honey Bunches of Oats printableFREE after coupon!
Find lots more current Walmart deals here!

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Mmmmm... Free Pop Tarts



My children didn't really discover pop-tarts until recently. Seems like there's been a lot of really good coupons for them as of late.
Today is no exception.
Right now at Target, there's a printable for Kellogg’s Whole Grain Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tarts,which sell for $1.52.
$2/2 Kellogg’s Select Fiber-Added Products, exp. 10-11-09 (RP 8/30/09)
2 FREE after 1 Target and 2 manufacturer coupons
Now, if you are unfamiliar with the Target coupon policy it is PERFECTLY legal to use a target coupon and a manufacturer coupon together.
That means you can buy 2 boxes of these, use the 3 coupons (Target, printable and RP) and get the 2 boxes free. Enjoy!

Nature Valley Nut Clusters - Nearly Free


From the unassuming bag and color, one would never guess that these are the BEST THING EVER! Two words for you.... "Fiddle Faddle". Sweet little granola goodness balls.
I was sent a sample by mail recently, and there was not a person in my household between 5 and 43 who didn't love these. Seriously.

So there's a printable coupon for 'em right now at Hot coupon alert — print this $1.60/1 Nature Valley Nut Clusters printable (IE) or printable (FF) . Then go to Cellfire.com and shortcuts.com and get another $1/1 loaded to your shopping card.

$2.60 off 1! These babies will be near free with the sales they are on recently.

Just a warning, if your kids catch you hiding them... you're gonna be in trouble. :-)

Monday, September 14, 2009

Free Coke!

You can say it-- I'm a coke addict. True, sad. But true. Only the kind in the red can though.

So how to afford it when you are DOUBLE CHEAP? Well, My coke rewards (coke's loyalty program) helps. This week you can get a free coke!

Here's how:
Sign onto Mycokerewards.com (If you aren't a member yet-- sign up.)
Find the TGIFriday's "pick up more stripes" program.
You'll get 25 points which is enough to redeem for one of the following prizes:
FREE 20 oz. Coke (Sprite, Diet Coke, etc.)
FREE 18.5 oz. Dasani Essense
FREE 32 oz. Powerade
FREE 20 oz. Minute Maid

Cool!

Target Deals for the Cheap at Heart

A friend told me she took her daughter shopping-- they each took 1/2 the list and met at the checkout counter. Her bill was over $200 from adding stuff to the cart! (wow....)

So in honor of my dear sweet friend-- here's a list of things you can get on the DOUBLE CHEAP at Target this week.

Kashi Trail Mix Bars (6-ct.), $2.88Get a $5 Target Gift Card wyb 5

$1/2 Kashi TLC Chewy Granola Bars printable Kashi TLC Chewy Granola Bars printable (IE) or printable (FF)

As low as $0.38 ea. wyb 5 after coupons and $5 gift card!


Eggo Waffles - $1.50
$1/2 Eggo Frozen Products Target printable
$1/2 Eggo Frozen Products, exp. 9-27-09 (Kellogg’s/Keebler Insert 8/2/09)
$0.50 ea. wyb 2 after coupons!
Now that's cheap breakfast!

$1/1 Kellogg’s Whole Grain Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tarts (8-ct.)
– $0.55/1 Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts, exp. 11-8-09 (RP 9/13/09)
– $1/2 Pop-Tarts, exp. 9-27-09 (Kellogg’s/Keebler Insert 8/2/09)

$1/2 Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts (12-ct.)
– $0.55/1 Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts, exp. 11-8-09 (RP 9/13/09)
– $1/2 Pop-Tarts, exp. 9-27-09 (Kellogg’s/Keebler Insert 8/2/09)

$1/2 Kellogg’s Special K Bars (6-ct.)
$1/2 Special K Bars printable

$1/2 Kellogg’s Special K Crackers
$1/1 Special K Crackers printable

$1/2 Kellogg’s Special K Nutritional Products
$1/2 Special K Bars printable
$1/1 Special K Blueberry Cereal printable
$0.75/1 Special K Chocolatey Pretzel Bars printable
$1/1 Special K Crackers printable
$1/1 Special K Protein Shakes printable
– $1/2 Special K Protein Products, exp. 9-27-09 (Kellogg’s/Keebler Insert 8/2/09)

$1/2 Kellogg’s Special K Cereals (10-oz.+)
$1/1 Special K Blueberry Cereal printable

$1/1 Kashi Frozen Pizza

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Walmart Roundup

Happy Sunday! Nothing I like better than a cart full of free (or nearly free) stuff from Wallyworld!

This week there's good deals to be had at Walmart- here's a few of my favs.

Healthy Choice dinners - $2.50 There's a printable coupon here: $2/1 Healthy Choice printable
Making dinner a mere $0.50 after coupon!

You'll need some dessert, of course- so how about some
Jello Pudding or Gelatin, $0.50$0.50/2 Jello printable (IE) or printable (FF)
$0.25 ea. after coupon!

Or (one of my personal favs... a CHOCO TACO) honestly, if you haven't had one-- they are awesome!
Klondike Choco Tacos, $1$1/1 Klondike printable
FREE after coupon!

Pillsbury Grands Biscuits (5-ct.), are $0.74
Here's a $1/2 Pillsbury Grands printable making them
$0.24 ea. after coupon!

Reese’s Candy Bars, $0.50$0.55/1
Reese’s Candy Product, exp. 10-31-09 (SS 8/23/09)
FREE after coupon!

Sun Chips (sm. bags), $0.99
$1/1 Sun Chips, exp. 10-31-09 (ALL YOU September ‘09)
FREE after coupon!

YoBaby 3-in-1 Meals (6-oz.), $1
$1/1 YoBaby printable
FREE after coupon!(Thanks, Couponing 101!)

Bengay Patches, $1.50
$2/1 Bengay, exp. 11-30-09 (SS 8/2/09)
FREE after coupon!

Reach Dental Floss, $0.97
$1/1 Reach Dental Floss, exp. 5-31-10 (SS 6/14/09)
FREE after coupon!

Schick Slim Twin Disposable Razors, $1.97
$3/1 Schick Disposable Razor, exp. 9-27-09 (SS 8/16/09)
FREE after coupon!

Zantac 150 (8-ct.), $4.23
$5/1 Zantac printable
FREE after coupon!

Chinet Plates, $2.36
$2/1 Chinet Lunch, exp. 9-30-09 (SS 8/9/09)
$0.36 after coupon!.

Hungry Hippos Travel Size Game, $4.79
$4/1 Hasbro printable
$0.79 after coupon!

Rubbermaid Bottle (1-pt.), $1.46
$1/1 Rubbermaid Beverage Pitcher or Bottle, exp. 9-27-09 (V 6/28/09)
$0.46 after coupon!

Monday, September 7, 2009

Free Chik-Fil-A TODAY!

Okay, Labor Day goers --break away from crafting and head on over to Chik-fil-a for a free Chicken sandwich!
Some reports form Alanta said it must be a Jersey... but here in Flower Mound, Texas - a hat or anything would do. I'm pretty sure they were even allowing this at the drive through!


Head on over-- it's good all day!

When we got there at 11:15 there was almost no line, but by 11:40.. it was a biggun. Might want to try the late afternoon time, rather than dinner.


Sunday, September 6, 2009

FREE Chik-fil-A tomorrow!

Don't forget- tomorrow on Labor Day you can get a free original chiken sandwich at Chik-fil-a. Just wear any sports logo in.

It'll be busy!

Knock me over with a feather... $5 Frito Pie


Knock me over with a feather-- turns out someone has been reading the blog. In fact, two people! They reminded me I've been lax on updates, which reminded me about tonight's FLASHBACK DINNER.

Flashback dinner tonight is Frito Pie. It's close to a $5 for a family of four, provided two of the four are not teenage boys.

I have some picky eaters, so I made this in two batches.

Brown 1 lb ground beef and drain. (On sale- $1.98/ lb.)
Place back into skillet with 1 can chopped tomatoes (7 ounces or close - $.95)
Now, place 1/2 of this mixture aside.
To the rest add 1/2 packet of taco seasoning (.99 cents/2 = .50)
Let the water from the tomatoes cook down.

Serve with grated cheddar over fritos (in a bowl, or Middle School style from a small bag with the side cut open.) If this doesn't bring back visions of insecurty and homeroom, nothing will.

Friday, September 4, 2009

Chicken Tacos - $5 Dinner

I am always in search of a $5 dinner. If you are new to this blog, I probably need to mention that this means $5 for a family of four. Tonight fit the bill.

The other day Kroger had a meal deal (I won't get on my soapbox about how I don't always think these are a good deal...) anyway, it included free taco shells. I actually needed 2 of the other things, so I went ahead and took the deal.

1 box of 12 taco shells-- FREE.

Ground beef?? Too rich for my blood. Chicken.

I had Pilgrim's pride cheicken tenders that I got on the buy 1 get 1 free sale at Kroger (about every month, it seems) plus a $1.00 off any Pilgrims pride fresh chicken product from a May (?) circular. Total chicken cost $2.59.

Cheese- Bag cheese from Kroger on sale $1.50 (I bought quite a few!)

Total cost for tacos for 4? $4.09. And there are shells, chicken and cheese left over, so my actual cost was even lower.

Side note-- sometimes old favorites were favorites because our parents were thrifty. My chicken nugget girls LOVED the chicken tacos and even asked for more. They never had tacos in hard shells before :/.


Cooking:
Thaw chicken if frozen. Cut into small pieces (take out bones if there are any.)
Nuke (microwave) for 3 minutes on high. Remove, cut up more and cook again for 1 minute. Check again, if not cooked repeat 1 minute increments.
Separate chicken into small people and big people piles in bowls.

In the small people bowl-- shread chicken using two forks (ugh!) or PC whacker chopper. Same for big people bowl.
To big people bowl o' chicken, add taco seasoning mix (99 cents) and broth from cooking the chicken.

Serve with shredded lettuce or not. Tomatoes? only if garden grown for this price!

Enjoy and happy thrifting!

Mary Kay

Friday, August 21, 2009

Psst...printable fiber one yogurt coupon

Fiber, yucky right?

The new fiber products are everywhere...some good and some bad. This one is definitely a good one! Yummy creamy goodness without even a hint that it might be good for you.

Print a Yoplait Fiber One yogurt electronic coupon.

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Kroger SUPER DOUBLES TODAY

Yes, I know, all capitals is the same as shouting.

but hey... aren't super doubles worth shouting about?

Today only, Kroger has SUPER doubles (doubling up to and including $1.) I was a little worried that getting there at 8:00 the shelves might already be cleaned out... but they weren't and they did have people stocking while I was there.

It takes a little patience to get through the aisles, but it was worth it-- over $100 in coupon savings! And I left a lot of my coupons on the shelf by products I thought were still "too rich for my blood." (one well meaning lady told me, you do realize that would only be 99 cents?-- I told her I haven't paid for toothpaste, shampoo or bodywash PERIOD in over a year.)

Get over there. Seriously. It's worth it.

Today's coupon savings: $119.40 plus an additional $10 rebate check coming from Kelloggs. % (not as good) 51%. Still I was happy because that included a lot of things we just needed, like fruit and milk as well.

Happy shopping~!

Friday, August 14, 2009

Kroger Super DOUBLES!


Krogers in TX and LA are having SUPER double coupon days tomorrow.
Coupons UP TO $1.00 will be doubled.
GET THERE EARLY!
Bring those high dollar coupons, print any extras out tonight and get moving!

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

It's time for... Tally it up Tuesday!

It's time for another money saving Tally.
Secret shopping since 7/1/09 : Free stuff aquired while secret shopping: $74.50
Cash earned secret shopping since 07/01/09: $96
Dryer loads dryed outside : 0 (I've fallen off the wagon here...)

This week was busy doing Deli work-- I'm becoming addicted to Muffalettas :)

Monday, August 10, 2009

Meal Plan Monday

Well. Menu plan monday. I didn't add mine to the "official" list this week, because I wasn't sure "Whatever I can scrounge from the pantry" would cut it!

I did however, come up with a plan. We're still eating what we can down from the pantry. I looked through some magazines this week for quick recipes that won't get too many groans, and I can make from stuff on hand.

Monday: Campbells Taco Skillet

Brown 1 lb. ground beef, drain.
Add to skillet: 1 can tomato soup, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup salsa, 4 flour tortillas (6-8") cut into 1" pieces. Boil, then turn down heat and continue to cook for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and serve.

6 year old: thumbs up! 4 year old: thumbs down. Hubby: thumbs up! Mommy: okay- ease makes it worth it.

Tuesday: My hubby and I are hitting the Religious Appreciation dinner in Fort Worth. (Actually it's held in Arlington.) Big KUDOS to my familia babysitters.

Wednesday: Spinach and bacon with raviolis
Thursday: Chicken - pat dry, coat with flour, pan fry. Serve with mashed potatoes and peas.
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Mom has a meeting.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Tally it Tuesday!

It's time for another money saving Tally.

Secret shopping since 7/1/09 :
Free stuff aquired while secret shopping: $47.50
Cash earned secret shopping since 07/01/09: $78

Dryer loads dryed outside : 0 (I've fallen off the wagon here...)

Pantry Stretching - Black Bean Pizza

Out of meat and out of cash? Been there!

Here's a simple recipe that uses very few ingredients, is filling, and suprizingly kids love it!

You'll need pizza dough- but never dispair, you can also use english muffins, tortillas, or bisquick pizza dough.

Spread out pizza dough (or English muffin) and brush lightly with olive oil.
On top, spread the following which have been blended in a food processor:
  • canned black beans
  • pepper
  • salt
  • (if available, but not necessary) adobo or italian seasonings

Top with parmesean (from can is fine) or shredded cheese.

Bake at 350 (or according to dough manufacturer's recommendations) for 20 minutes or until crust is crispy.

Kroger Deals Week of 8/5




Meal Deal - (Cracks me up that they are calling this a meal deal!) Buy Breyers, get whipped topping, hot fudge and cherries free.

Grapes (red, white or black) 87 cents / pound -I must tell you though I hope they get some better looking ones out for tomorrow!


Possible Money Maker: Pillsbury cinnamon or crescent rolls $1/ex when you buy 4.
  • Use these coupons-Printable at this link.
  • Save 50 cents (doubles to $1) on 2 crescent rolls
  • Save $1 on 2 Grands! biscuits
  • Save 40 cents (souble to 80 cents) on 2 sweet rolls or grands.
If you hit the back button, you should be able to print 2 coupons, meaning 4 rolls of Grands! for 50 cents each.

  • If you have your Smart Source 7/12 coupons, you can get Grands FREE using the 35 cent coupon which triples to $1.05

Manwich $1


Kroger brand canned chicken meat (tuna like can) $1


Kroger brand tortilla chips $1


Speed Stick 88 cents - there is a coupon in the 7/26 Smart Source for 75 cents off 2 (except trial) - making these less than 51 cents each!


Ground beef (chubs) $1.59 / pound


Eggos 2/$3 coupon for $1/2 Kellogg's Fuel for School Booklet (this came in the paper along with other coupons and also has a cereal rebate deal) Final Price: 2/$2 or $1 each.


Oscar Mayer Lunchmeat B1G1


Oscar Mayer hot dogs (beef) B1G1 There are $1 printables available here. (rolling.) or Smart Source 6/21 $1 off 2.
-if you got the Food & Family Summer issue there is a $1/1 coupon for any hot dogs also.


The P&G davings (buy 4 get $4 off other stuff instantly) is still going through this week.


Here's your $5 Day idea (Feed a family of four three meals for $5):
Breakfast: Grand biscuits (Free) with Tennessee Pride Gravy (biscuits and Gravy-yum!) -$1
Lunch - Bologna sandwiches (Bar S on sale for $1) on bread
Dinner - Boneless Chicken tenders (1 pound) $1.99 toss these in a baggies with some flour, then egg dip, then bread crumbs with salt, pepper and italian seasonings - fry 'em up.
Serve with carrots ($1) and tea

Friday, July 31, 2009

Some Great Kroger Deals This Week

Here they are- some freebies from Korger this week:

P&G Promo: When you buy 4 participating P&G products, you save $4 at checkout. This $4 savings is on other non-P&G products in your cart.

Olay bodywash (thank gooness! My Walgreens free bodywashes are running out...)
$3.50 - $1 P&G Sale - $.50 eSaver - $2 MQ = FREE

Herbal Essences / Aussie $1.99
- $2/2 Aussie Q (7/26 RP)
- $1/1 Herbal Essences Q (7/5 P&G)
OR- Buy any Herbal Essence, Get Free Styler (7/26 RP)
= Free – 99¢

Oral B Toothbrush $1.00 - $1 MQ = FREE

Here's a scenario for you from Baby Center Community
Buy 1 Iams dog food - $16.99
Buy 1 Aussie shampoo - $2.99
Buy 1 Herbal Essence shampoo - $2.99
Buy 1 Herbal Essence styler - $2.99
Buy 1 DiGiorno Flatbread melts - $3.19
Buy 1 lb peaches - $.87
Buy 4 Kraft shells & cheese - $1.79/each
Use $1 Iams eSaver coupon
Use $2.50/1 Iams coupon (from Kroger mailer)
Use $2 Aussie eSaver coupon
Use $1 Herbal Essence eSaver coupon
Use $1/1 Herbal Essence coupon
Use free Herbal Essence styler when you buy shampoo/conditioner coupon
Use Free DiGiorno coupon
Use 2 $1.50/2 Kraft Shells & cheese printables
Use $3 Kraft OYNO catalina
Use $1 Kleenex OYNO catalinaInstant $4 off (P&G promotion)
Total before coupons = $37.18
Total after coupons = $12.50 - that's less than I would normally pay for 1 bag of dog food!
You will also get back a $3 OYNO catalina for the Kraft

Monday, July 20, 2009

Win $1000 Grocery card / learn to grocery shop on $25 a week.

All You! (I don't pay for many magazines, but this one tends to pay me back, as it is loaded with coupons!) has a grocery challenge happening right now.

The challenege is to spend less than $25 a week on groceries for a family of four. I LOVE this, because it's my personal challenge each week! Sound impossible? Stockpiling and coupons can make this possible. You just have to think outside the box.

Along with inspiration and ideas, there are tips on saving money. Check out allyou.com/grocerychallenge.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Simply Cookies Coupon Link


Yum!

I arrived home tonight to find my hubby had baked up chocolate chip cookies (did I mention I love this man?) MMMMMMmmm.... chocolatey goodness.
These cookies are all natural and new from Pillsbury! Although I can't promise you a plate of the yumminess waiting for you when you get home, I can get you a coupon .

Happy eating!
Print a Pillsbury simply…™ cookies electronic coupon.

Stretching the pennies till they yelp,

Rubber Dollar

Monday, July 13, 2009

Staples School Supply Deals this Week 7/12 - 7/15

Alrighty, now we're talkin'!

Get over there quick before they are all gone.

Pencils 1 cent for an 8 pack. limit 2

Copy paper 1 cent after Easy Rebate (mail that rebate right away so you won't forget!)

$1 kid scissors 2-pack, limit 2. (scissors are the most disappearing item at my house, much more than socks. Someday we'll move out and they will find 40 pairs of scissors and think we were senile...)

Pencil boxes $1 limit 2

Staplers (those cute mini kind) $1 limit 2

Photo plus paper (easy rebate) $1 limit 2 rebates

Highlighters $1

Velocity stick fashion pens $1 (limit 2)

Scott's magic tape (limit 2 ) $1

There's a coupon for $5 off of $20 in the ad. Buy 2 of each and get all these for $9 after rebates. Not too shabby!

CVS Great School Supply Deals This week!

Okey dokey... ya'll got those #2's sharpened yet?

School supply sales (the good ones) come but once a year, and now's the time.

CVS - First of all, all the ones in my area are out- so go in requesting a rain check, and get 'em later when they are fully stocked. (btw- kudos and shout out to my all time favorite manager at the 3040/Morriss CVS... you rock by welcoming couponers!)

Here's the deals:

Scissors - 5" $2.99 through Tuesday, 7/13 only. Get $2.99 ECB's back = FREE.
Ruler - (be careful here, more than one kind is 99 cents... ) 99 cents get 99 cents ECB back = FREE
Glue - 99 cents, get 99 cents back = FREE
Pens (8 count) =99 cents get 99 cents ECB back = FREE

I love the sign of the free...

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Tally it Up Tuesday!

Greetings!



As promised here's the tally (these started with July)


  • Secret shopping since 7/1/09 : $29.88
  • Free stuff aquired while secret shopping: $10
  • Cash earned secret shopping since 07/01/09: $43
  • Dryer loads dryed outside : 0 (it's raining!)

On the stretching it till payday tally :

0 $ on groceries from checking or savings since we started. And not on plastic either. Go team!

How'd your week turn out? Leave me your tally and play along!

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Wanna Free Ipod?

Deal Seeking Mom is hosting a give-away for a new site called XtraXtra! - it's all about hometown events... cool!

To win the ipod, check out DealSeekingMom.com and check this post
http://www.dealseekingmom.com/ipod-touch-giveaway-xtraxtra-check-it-out/comment-page-19/#comment-69945 .

Tallys


When I started this blog, I used to tally some of my "cheap ways" as a way to keep score on how I was doing. If you'd like to play along, I'm going to start "Tally it up Tuesdays" where you can list how you've saved money for your family this week. If you are trying to get out of debt, set this money aside and use it to pay down some bills.
If you've been reading, you know I'm on a spend nothing from checking, credit, or savings until payday challenge. This is tricky... but it's been working okay. Today we had two secret shops GREAT budget stretchers, but they do require out of pocket cash up front.
Well-- as luck would have it, a customer of mine (I have a small shop, Keeps Me In Stitches) paid me in cash today! Hooray! Just enough to cover the two shops I needed to do.
One shop required eating at a burger joint after church, and it didn't have any problems with a guest or children. Perfect! so the family split two very large meals-- stretching the food budget a bit further.Then, we were paid $8 plus the cost of a pizza to have a pizza delivered. (Yes, I realise this is not the healthiest eating style...) Score two free meals plus $8 for the family.
Secret shopping since 7/1/09 : $29.88
Cash earned secret shopping since 07/01/09: $8
Dryer loads dryed outside : 0 (it's raining!)
fyi.. took two extra walks today- to work off some of those extra calories!

Getting Started in Secret Shopping

I've been secret shopping for about 5 years now. Every once in a while (but particularly when the economy deals a new blow) I'll get questions about secret shopping. I thought I'd take a minute to answer the most frequent ones from my perspective. If you're interested, it's a great way to stretch your pennies even further!

Q: How do you know the company is "for real" not a scam?

This is probably the question I get asked most. Reputable shopping companies do require some personal information because, like other reputatble companies they pay taxes. They require a social security number, your address, date of birth, etc. Sometimes giving out that information (particularly over the internet) can make you a bit leery.

One great place to start is with the MSPA - the Mystery Shopping Providers Association. This is not a secret shopping company itself, but rather a professional organization for mystery shoppers. They have certification tests and conventions, and allow secret shoppers to present themselves professionally to reputable companies.

Through their site, there are links to reputable companies to contact, as well as lists of current scams. It's a great place to start.


Q: Can I make a living mystery shopping? Can it replace my income?


The true answer here, in my opinion is no. Mystery shopping can be a great way to stretch a household budget or make a few extra dollatrs, but except for a very few people, it's not a full time salary. There are exceptions of course. You might build this into a full time income- kudos to you! But for most of us, it's like coupons. It won't pay for everything, but it can help!


Q: Do I get to keep the merchandise I buy while shopping?

If you looked at some of the ads, you'd think mystery shoppers were getting to keep Louis Vuitton purses and the like. This isn't really the case. In most cases, if you are asked to buy something expensive you are also asked to return it. I actually like these shops because they pay real money. Which leads me to...

Q: Will I get paid to eat out?

Most restaurants will buy your meal, but most do not pay in addition. Some will pay a small additional fee ($4 - $15) UNLESS they are in a bind- and that's when it can get really fun. I was once paid $30 to have a pizza delivered to my house, in addition to being paid back for the pizza! They do usually pay for your food (and sometimes your alcohol) bill. My husband and I have had many $100 + dinners and countless $35 dinners paid for by secret shopping companies.

Some of this might also depend on the area you live. In a big metropolitan area with many secret shoppers, the pay will be less. If you travel quite a bit and go through airports, there is big potential.

Although report writing can be time consuming at first, once you have a few under your belt and begin to see the kind of reports and details companies are looking for, it gets easier and quicker.

If this sounds like something you might be interested in, stay tuned. Tomorrow I'll deliver Part Two: What do I need to get started?

Stetching it Sunday

Sunday is the day we CELEBRATE BEING CHEAP!

So c'mon-- share your cheap tips! (This is particularly in line with our two week challenge.)
Got a cheap recipe? A make it yourself cleaner? Share your tips on Sunday for how to stretch those pennies!

Here's how it works:
Add your link using the handy dandy widget below. Please link only to your specific post, not to your blog in general. Also be sure to link back to Stretching it Sunday post on your blog (or rish deletion.) Thanks!


Friday, July 3, 2009

Update on Stretching the Food until Payday




Morning went well. We're up to the challenge! (For those of you just joinging in... to make it 2 weeks without spending money for groceries. ) We added a few additions to this, to keep us sane:
  1. Secret shopping doesn't count. I had a few assignments that I needed to finish.

  2. Milk or bread paid for with cash on hand is okay. (Nothing may be withdrawn from checking or savings.) -- I used CVS bucks and a bread store card to accomplish these two.


  3. No eating out. Exception, see #1.


  • So, for breakfast- the end of yesterdays waffles. Hmm.. where's that pancake recipie again? I'm going to need it.

  • Snacks - pears.

  • Lunch - The girls had popcorn shrimp leftovers and pizza rolls. (Hey! No one ever said this was the totally healthy challenge!) Also cottage cheese and a cookie.

  • Dinner- homemade pizza. I only have Parmesean chesse... so it might get interesting.

If you want to see what I started with, you can read this post. I think we're going to do just fine. It's Fourth of July, but wouldn't you know it-- we got an invite. I think I'll make a pot of beans to bring over, and some biscuits. Hooray!

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Chicken Dump Alfredo Recipie


This morning went well. I used up the last of the pancake mix (thankfully doesn't call for milk) and managed to squeeze 2 1/2 (big) waffles out of it. One the girls split for breakfast and I had a 1/2. I saved the other one for tomorrow's breakfast for the girls. No need to be in the dumps about this.

Apple juice. Waffles. Oatmeal.

Snack- I packed big girl some of the grapes and some craisins. Also one of the chip bags. It's a lot, but she has a big day. She will bring home left-overs, likely.

Lunch- hot dogs, most likely.

Dinner- This is crock pot Chicken Dump Alfredo:

Chicken strips (these were on top) went in this morning. At noon, I'll add
At noon:
Chopped sauted celery
onion
broccoli leftovers from fridge
broth (I'm going to have to use bullion and water as I'm out of actual broth)
At three:
Ragu Alfredo sauce (this was a freebie)

You can dump this all at once, but just leave out the spaghetti and microwave and mix just before serving. Otherwise the noodles will disappear from overcooking and break down.

Forget to put it in? Throw the whole mess in your pressure cooker for 20 - 25 minutes.




We followed these up with these for a little "eat your dinner" motivation. Honest, the chicken is very good-- it just deosn't pass the no foods touching test.


Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Taking Stock of Freezer and Pantry

I'm feeling like the little boy with the fishes-- suddenly what I have on hand doesn't seem so bad. ..

This is Part 2 of the making it stretch post. The goal being to keep from going grocery shopping or spending any money until July 15th.

Here's the contents of useable food:

Freezer:
pizza rolls (6 or so)
1 pound frozen shrimp
green beans
chicken (lots)
2 pie shells
chicken nuggets
meatballs
sausage (Polish Keilbasa)
ground beef (2 pounds)
broccoli
peas
mini tacos (about 5)

Fridge:
Spaghetti (precooked)
jelly
cottage cheese
broccoli serving
mac n cheese leftovers
2 eggs
strawberries
apple juice
grapes
hot dogs
watermelon
bacon bits (real bacon)
corn (looks a little past its prime)
celery (might be partially frozen)
ham lunchmeat
pepperroni
popcorn shrimp (1 serving)
pears
apples
baby carrots
parmesean cheese
cinnamon rolls
crescent rolls
pizza dough
butter

pantry:
bread crumbs
pasta salad
Alfredo sauce
Gingerbread mix
rotini
penne
spaghetti
mac n cheese
beans
hominey
rice
cornbread
squeezy cheese
oatmeal
evaporated milk
condensed milk
dry milk
sugar
tea bags
single serving chip bags
Gatorade
Peanut butter

Sorry about the long list.... so that's it. No cheating. I have big plans. I didn't list things like chocolate chips or pudding and soup mix, or spices... although I have some of these things as well.

Tomorrow- oatmeal and cinnamon rolls for breakfast. We have some apple juice for the girls.. I plan on having coffee, even though I am (gasp!) out of creamer and milk. Yikes...

Kroger Deals for 7/1 - 7/6

Kroger is having their Daytona week again- you buy 10 items from the list, you get $3 off instantly. (Has to be in multiples of 10 to get the savings...)
  • Coke 12 packs 5/$12 (requires an additional $10 purchase) use your cokerewards.com coupons from points to make these 5/$7 or $1.40 a twelve pack. Now, if you read the Tom Thumb section for this week, there is potentially a better deal, but it's not as sure...
  • Beef Brisket 99 cents a pound. (Perfect for $5 dinner night!)
  • Strawberries 99 cents for 16 ounces

Happy Shopping!


Albertsons Deals Texas 7/1-7/6/09


Here's the deal-i-o's for Albertson's for this week:
  • Corn! 10 for $3 or 30 cents each. This is perfect for $5 dinner this week.
  • Bluebell half gallons, 3/$10 - (Don't forget to print your coupon at Bluebell.com. You can print 2.
  • Oscar Mayer all meat franks B1G1 free. Use your $1/2 coupon from Smart Source 6/7 or 6/21 for even better savings.
  • Chinet Dinner Napkin 40 ct., 10/$10 use your $1/1 from 6/28 SS insert for-- FREE napkins! Also check here for another coupon...print Your Coupon
  • Hefty plates or bowls 10/$10 use coupon $0.50/1 Hefty plates / bowls 05/17 RP insert for FREE plates!

Might have to stop by for my FREEbies, even though I'm not shopping. Free doesn't count, right?

Tom Thumb Deals 7/1/09 - 7/6/09


Just because I'm on a grocery buying freeze out, doesn't mean I can't share the great deals with you guys!

Fourth of July is always an excellent time to save on certain items-- here's what I found this week for Tom Thumb. I'm in Flower Mound (Dallas area), so be sure to check your circular and make sure your sales match.

Blue Bell ice cream $3.49 (mmmmm.... I love Bluebell!)
now ya'll do know to go to Bluebell.com and get your $1 coupon first, right?? So that makes Bluebell a very sensible $2.49 for a half gallon. Yummy! If you find any of that Southern Blackberry cobbler- post where! I might have to break my shopping fast.... This is the first month for Banana Pudding, which will be here through September, or until they run out.

Cherries - $1.88 pound

Coke - $1.99 / 12 pack with tear out coupon. (limit of 5) Now normally I would post to use your coupons from Cokerewards.com to make this 99 cents a 12 pack! but your mileage might vary based on the wording... one coupon per transaction. Even though I cleared it with my MGR last time, I still had trouble.

Kraft singles 12 ounce - 99 cents with coupon from flyer. (limit of 2)

Happy shopping!

Living from your pantry- Cheap Meals



Whether you are needing to stretch until your next payday, or just needing to clean out your freezer- every once in a while it's a great idea to "eat from your stash".



The challenge comes in stepping away from old faithfuls (in my house, the girls would eat a PB sandwich everyday if you let 'em) and trying something new. This is also the great part. By refusing to go to the grocery store for a period of time (a week or two weeks) you force yourself to "think outside of the box". Sometimes this isn't really by choice....

I hope some of you will join me in this challenge-- and let us know your creative meals. This week we had some unexpected issues which are going to make it a tough month. So, I'm trying to stretch not going to the grocery store until after July 15th. (Two paydays from now.) Join me! (Misery loves company?? Nah... .I love a good challenge!)

Issue Number one- We are OUT of milk. Am I allowed to buy any? I have some CVS ECB bucks-- does it count if I don't pay money??? Maybe we need some rules...

Day 1: Dinner - Spaghetti and Meatballs (from freezer). I usually add meat in the sauce, but not tonight. That meat can be a whole other meal. We served tea and green beans.

Day 2:
  • Breakfast - the end of the milk with cereal (hmmmm... this might be an issue)
  • Snack - Fresh fruit (leftover grapes from our trip and some strawberries)
  • Dinner - Frozen popcorn shrimp, cottage cheese (no milk, so this is the kiddos dairy), edamame from the freezer. Water to drink.

Since it's going to be meals that might not excite the kids- I tried to make this one a good one. All things they like. Now I'll try to ration the likes with the dislikes... see if we can make mealtime more pleasant while we stretch.

Tomorrow I have no waffles, and I have cereal- but no milk. I have some evaporated milk and some condensed milk, so maybe I can make one of those work for waffles. I'm off to make a freezer / pantry inventory and see what I can dig up to keep us happy the next few weeks. This will likely be most difficult for my dear hubby, who loves his morning Cheerios.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Coke Deal of the Week - Albertsons

$1.37 Twelve packs!
Okay Rubber Dollar followers. Ya'll know how cheap I am on sodas...

Albertsons, LLC (sorry regular Albertson's folks... this one is for the Texas girls.) has 12 packs
4/ $10.88 and get one free. That makes them 5 / $10.88

If you've been saving your coke points, like a good little shopper.... use 4 $1/1 coupons printed from coke rewards.com and they are ....(drumroll please....)

$1.37 a 12 -pack
That's a price I can live with.

While you are in there, pick up a brisket for July 4 (99 cents a pound will make several $5 meals!) You need an additional $10 purchase. The cokes make this, because they count it before coupons. Hooray! Cheap coke and cheap brisket. I can hear the fireworks already.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Planet Hollywood Cap'n Crunch Chicken



Planet Hollywood Cap'n Crunch Chicken Fingers with Mustard Dipping Sauce

Here 's the recipie for that Cap'n crunch chicken. Check out Jen's recipie (click logo) for a great Asian Citrus Salad (yum!)

Both of these could easily be $5 meals (HELLO!) if you buy your chicken on sale, and if you have a stock of some spices. If you don't have Cap'n crunch.... you can substitute. Pick something with a little bit of sweetness.

The original recipie for this is a family favorite-- but it calls for so many spices that it's not very frugal! I've changed it a bit, to make it budget friendly too.



You need:
2 cups crushed Cap'n crunch. I've also tried other puffy cereals with good results.
1.5 cups flour (i like to mix in some onion, garlic powder and pepper)
1 cup milk
1 egg (beaten, and added to milk)
1-2 pounds of chicken tenders or strips
hot oil, about 1/2" deep in fryer (or deep fryer.)




Dip the chicken in the milk, then dredge in the flour.
Then Re-dip the chicken in the milk, then dredge in crushed Cap'n crunch.
Set chicken aside on plate and prepare a plate with towels.
Fry chicken in oil for a few minutes, until coating is golden.
Yummy!



For mustard dip- mix
honey dijon mustard (1/4 cup)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
dash of worcestershire sauce
Mix these together and serve with strips for dipping.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Menu Plan Monday chicken dump recipes!


When chicken is cheap, I stock up! Well, apparently I've been finding a lot of chicken deals, because my freezer is overrun by frozen chicken!



So this week I'm doing a lot of "chicken dump" recipes. That means you dump all the ingredients in your Crockpot and forget about them... a favorite of mine. Dinner's already cooking for tonight.


Monday - Dump Chicken Parmesan (recipe to follow)

Tuesday - Planet Hollywood Cap'n Crunch Chicken fingers with mustard dipping sauce. (recipe follows)

Wednesday - Fundraiser night for swim team

Thursday - Sloppy Joe Leftovers

Friday - King ranch casserole

Saturday- Leftover Chicken Parmesan from Monday

Sunday - Chicken enchiladas (recipe)


Dump Chicken Paremesean - This makes a chicken and dumpling tasting meal...
In crockpot on low until dinner time (start before work) - 1- 1.5 pounds of chicken cut up. I'm using tenders because they were on top. Pieces (including those with bones) or breasts would work equally as well.
Add one package of noodle roni paremesan. (I got ours free with double coupons!) Hold the noodles for now. Add the water and milk called for on the package. Omit the oil, if any.
Add one package of chopped veggies that have been "extra" chopped using a hand chopper. (This helps them blend with the noodles.) Tonight I'm using broccoli, but other great choices are three veggies mixes and (yum!) Italian mix.
Two hours before serving, add the noodles.
That's it!

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Target Deals Week of 6/21-6/27


Here's the great Target Deals YES/NO for this week:

YES -SPEEDO goggles are $9. Kat is on swim team this year, and googles have a way of disappearing. This is a good find.

NO - Coke 3/$11. Even with the printable $1/1 coupons this brings them to $2.67 a 12 pack. I just refuse to go above $2.25 for soda.

YES -Eggo Frozen Waffles $1.50 each. These include the "bake shop" variety which has $1/1 Bake Shop
here and redplum (print 2 in each place) Your final price $0.50 each.

YES - Lipton Tea Bags (100 ct), Iced Tea Mix (10 qt) and others - $2.50 each. Buy 4. Use $0.60/1 in 5/17 Red Plum insert, and use $1/2
here and here.
Makes your final price = $1.90-2.00 each.
It's like getting 4 of these for $2.60 ($0.65/ea) with gift card (using 4 $0.60 coupons)

YES -Ziploc Evolve Sandwich & Snack Bags - $1.77/each . Use $1/1 Target coupon in the
Afullcup.com Target Coupon Generator PLUS use $0.40/1 in 5/10 Smart Source insert. Final Price = $0.37/each when you buy 2 (Thanks, My Frugal Adventures!)

MAYBE- There is another Fusion razor deal where if you buy the $7.99 razor and one other product (body wash for example) you get a $5 gc. There is a $4 Fusion coupon and coupons for the body wash. So it would be pretty low cost...


YES - GRAPES! $0.99/lb. I love when grapes go on sale!




Cheap on Cars

New Car Smell?
We had a tornado come through Flower Mound recently. The second one in five years. Although we didn't sustain any damage ourselves this time-- the neighbors lost their fence.
He came over to tell us how he was going to rebuild it, as Kev was washing the car. The neighbor was telling Kevin how he should use (some product) to wash the car. (Kev was using Palmolive, I believe.) Kev laughed.
Our van is approaching 15 years old and has over 150,000 miles on it. It doesn't look to bad, but it doesn't really need special soap at this point. In fact, it's a compilation of two different vans that were both gifted to us when we were going through a rough financial period. The repairs on this one, at this point probably cost more than the van is worth.
but...... who cares? It runs! It gets from place A to place B and isn't even that bad on mileage. (Maybe 20ish...)Now mind you, our next car will be more efficient, but that may still be several years away. Because we have learned one very important thing being frugal. NO CAR PAYMENTS.
Do I miss new car smell? Sure! Warranties? You betcha! But there is no way we're going back to having a car payment/lease payment. Our goal is to have no "payments" at all-- and that includes the house. As long as these things keep running, we'll keep driving them.
The old Dodge Grand Caravan shines a little more, just thinking about it.

Friday, June 19, 2009

Kroger Deals and the $5 Meal

The Five Dollar Meal Deal this week from...


What's the $5 meal deal? Its a meal for a family of 4, using the current specials and coupons from the previous circulars.
For clarification-- my Kroger is in Flower Mound, and your mileage may vary, based on location. They triple up to 35 cents, and double up to 50 cents on coupons.
Shopping list:
Nectarines (1 lb.) 87 cents
Lettuce 87 cents - all types are on sale, buy 1 head
Sunny Delight $1.25 - 25¢/1 coupon from SmartSource 6/14 = 50¢
Eckrich Smoked Sausage, buy 1 - $2.50
Serve sausage (pan fried) with salad and Sunny Delight, serve sliced nectarines for dessert.
If you have a few fresh veggies for that salad-- even better!

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Target Deals for the week of June 14th

Degree men's deodorant (Artic Edge and Intense Sport)--$2.49
Use the $1.50/1 Target printable coupon here
and use the $1/1 manufacturer's coupon from the 5/17 RedPlum insert

it will be FREE after coupons (Thanks to Heather at nwadeals!)

Kraft Mayo--$1.99
Use the $1/1 $1/1 printables at coupons.com and from Kraft Foods (you have to register)
Use together with $1/1 Target printable here
FREE with coupons from the 4/26

Aaahhh... coupon shopping.

We all have our reasons for cheapness.

This week I needed to buy groceries (milk, bread, a few others) and I only had about $21 to spend. These are the days when I'm glad to be a couponer!

By working the sales and the triple coupons... I was able to make it another week. My total was under $20. It wasn't my best load ever, but it was 3 or 4 bags of groceries.

The lady in front of me had about 4 - 6 items.... her total was almost the same.

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Monday Morning Plan

If you've ever fallen off the couponing band wagon, you know it takes abuot 4 months of saving circulars to catch back up. They are still quoting great deals from the January inserts, which I don't have... (drag!)

I'm starting to get back to the place (finally) where I am making a bigger impact. I have a few items planned for tomorrow...

Here are my scenarios for the day, hope they help someone!

CVS:

1.Crest Pro Health Enamel care - this is free after ECB's (extra care bucks). I have a few ECBs to roll from last week, so this one is a no-brainer. $3.49



2. Schick Quatro razor - It bothers the recycler in me that it's cheaper to get razors then cartridges, but what's a money saving gal to do? 3.00 ecbs $8.99- $4.00 coupon in the Smart Source insert from 3-22-09. $4.99 - 3.00 ecbs= $2.00
This was scratched in favor of a Target deal, outlined below. I'm leaving it in case I have any die-hard CVS'ers out there.

3. I'll also be rolling my small amount of ECBs on Vitamin D in the monthly booklet. It's not on sale, but FREE after ECBs. This is good way to continue ECBs that are expiring.

4. I got a new coupon that is $5 off of $15 Easter coupon-- so I'll probably look through the candy deals for something there.

Target

1. I had one extra Motts printable ($.55 cents off juice or sauce) and a Target $1 off Motts applesauce-- making the $1.89 sauce $.34 . Roughly 6 cents each.. which is pretty good for lunch boxes.

2. Schick Quatro and Intuition Razors from the 3-22-09 SmartSource inserts. These are $4.00 off each. Target has both kind on sale for $6.99 and if you buy 2, you get a $5 gift card. (I have a $5 gift card in hand from last week's similar Quaker deal.) So here's the plan... Purchase 2 razors ($13.98) use 1 $4 coupon on each ($8) and use $5 gift card, making my total $.98 for two razors. Then, repeat. (Using the gift card from the first transaction on the second one.) side note-- I'm not good at asking for multiple transactions, so I'll bring hubby and we'll each do one transaction.

3. Also have 2 coupons from Target for $1 off cheetos. (any) so I'll have a bag of cheetos (The small, $1.29 bag, in each transaction.

Target coupon savings: $1, $1,$1, $.55, $4, $4, $4, $4, $5, $5 (counting the free gcs as coupons here, but onl the ones redeemed as such). Total: $29.55



Target Saturday Savings

If you haven't already, there is one more day to take advantage of Target Super savings on Quaker products, Gilette wash, applesauce and cheetos.

They are on sale 2/$5 and there are coupons for $1 off each here and here. Then, if you buy 5 in the same transaction, they give you a $5 gift card. Sweet deal.

Here's the combination deal I did today:
Gilette body wash ($2.00 coupon from 3/1 insert) the small body wash (not trial size) was on an end cap and was $2.00-- so this was free.

Quaker deal- 3 boxes of True delight granola bars and 2 boxes of Life cereal = $12.50 - 5 ($1 coupons) - $5 gift card (you can't actually use it on this transaction...) = $2.50 for 5 products or 50 cents each.

Cheetos - bought the small but not lunch sized bag near the front ($1.29) used Target printable here for $1.00 off, total .29 .

Motts applesauce - use the printable which is good for juice or sauce (-$.55) available here and the target coupon -$1 (here) at my store, this made the applesauce $1.69-$1.55=$.14 - a super deal!

Total out of pocket for all groceries : $7.93 get a $5 gift card. I love Target. Might try to repeat later.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Huh? Oh well it's spring break...



Just realized I posted Meal Plan Monday on Sunday! (this is waht happens on Spring Break, I guess!)

We ended up having pot roast from the crockpot today (Monday) because I was unsure what time my better half would be home.

Purge Alert!!! - 2 bags to paper recycling, 3 bags to CCA (Christian Charity), and a car load to a buddy who is becoming a new GM! One of my Lenten commitments is to bless my family by purging at least 10 things a day. It is going well.

Secret Shopping Update - Paid $46.37 today for having a pizza delivered last week. By far one of the best deals out there.

Coupon Deal ALERT - Here's two deals you can take advantage of right away.
Walgreens has a 3/$9 deal on Reach floss, toothbrushes and Listerine mouthwash.
There is a coupon in the 3/15 paper for $3/3 of the same, making the 3/$6 deal.

Then... the deal prints a $6 Register reward to be used on your next shopping trip.
Now, turn this around... if your Walgreens carries the single Dove bars- buy $6, use your Register reward to pay for them (I think it works out to about $.72 cents out of pocket) and the deal prints yet another Register Reward for $6.



CVS has a deal this week for Dry idea roll on. Buy one at $2.99, get Extra Care bucks for $2 on your next order. There is a $2 coupon available at www.couponbug.com or www.coupons.com . That makes it 99 Cents out of pockets, but you get $2 back in ECBs.




May your coupons all be doubles, your freezer full, and your children loud and happy!

Mary Kay


Sunday, March 15, 2009

Meal Plan Monday

Do you guys know about the Yahoo group called Moms Menu Plan? Awesome! Everyone posts their weekly menus, along with some recipes. It's a great place to get new ideas.

I find right now I need to have at least one night be a "fridge cleaning" night. With two toddlers, we often have leftovers, so this is sort of a neccessity. I like to plan a simple meal for one night (spaghetti, for example) and then if there are no leftovers, we'll have that.

Here's my plan for the week:

Sunday – Pizza (Kaylee’s ½ birthday choice) -not free, unfortunately. It was her choice and she wanted plain cheese, which can't be used for secret shopping.

Monday – Salami and Provolone Sandwiches with chex mix and carrot sticks
These are pretty simple, but I will grill them in the foreman. Stack the ingredients and slather the bread with thousand island dressing. The Salami and Provolone are left over from a cooking class I do with little bitties, so it's paid for!
$ - Costs me just 1000 island dressing and bread. Probably will serve up with Chex Mix- got a great deal on this at Kroger today ($.19 for two packages. How? Loadable coupons on Cellfire, Clipped coupon from inserts and the 10 mega deal at Kroger. These combined for a whopping $.19 for two packages.

Tuesday – Crock Pot Corned Beef, cabbage, potatoes, green milk

Corned beed is on sale this week at TOM THUMB (Safeway) for $1.79 a pund! Use all those Super coupons for this week that require a $10 additional purchase. The coupon items plus the corned beed will put you over $10.
Here's an easy way to cook it- thanks to About.com If you forget to start it, use the pressure cooker instead.
It will cook this in about 25 minutes.

Ingredients:
· 6 to 8 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into thick (about 1/2-inch) slices
· 3 medium carrots, thinly sliced
· 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
· 1 corned beef brisket, about 3 pounds
· 1 cabbage, about 2 pounds
· 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
· 1 1/2 cups water
Preparation:
Lightly butter or spray a 5 to 6-quart crockpot; layer potato slices over bottom of pot with carrots. Place corned beef on vegetables. Slice cabbage into 8 wedges and arrange around meat. Sprinkle with the pepper and add water. Cover and cook on LOW setting for 7 to 8 hours, until meat and vegetables are tender.
Remove meat to a platter; cover with foil and rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.Corned beef and cabbage recipe serves 8.

Wednesday –Spaghetti, garlic bread, salad

Thursday- Family day trip- evening birthday dinner out
Friday – Shrimp with Rice, Broccoli cuts

Nothing fancy here. I have some frozen shrimp (cooked) that I will serve over plain rice. I will spice up DH's and mine with a little Cajun Spice to make it interesting. The broccoli cuts are just steamed in the microwave.


Saturday – Chicken Enchiladas, black beans, rice

This recipe is from Simply recipes. You can use any cooked chicken, or substitute turkey if you have it in your Freezer. I have chicken left from the B1G1 at Kroger 2 weeks ago.

Ingredients
· 1 small onion, chopped (about a cup)
· Vegetable oil - grapeseed or olive
· 2 small cloves garlic, minced
· 1 14.5-ounce can tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted if you can get it
· 2 Tbsp red chili powder
· 1 teaspoon sugar
· 1/2 cup to a cup of water
· 12 corn tortillas
· Grapeseed oil, peanut oil or canola oil - a high smoke point vegetable oil
· 2-3 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
· Salt
· 2 cups grated cheese (about 1/3 lb)
Method
1 Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2 Prepare the sauce. Coat a large skillet with oil and sauté the onions on medium heat until translucent, a few minutes. Add the garlic for a minute more. While the onions are cooking, purée the canned tomatoes in a blender. Add the tomatoes to the onions and garlic. Bring to a low simmer. Start adding the chili powder, one teaspoon at a time, tasting after each addition, until you get to the desired level of heat and chili flavor. For us that's around 2 Tablespoons. But it depends on your taste and how strong the chili powder is that you are using. Note that the tortillas and chicken will absorb some of the heat, so allow for that and let it be a little bit spicier than what you want in the finished dish. Add a teaspoon of sugar if necessary to cut down on the acid from the tomatoes. You want more of the taste of the chili and less of the tomatoes for this sauce. As the sauce simmers, dilute it with water to keep it from getting to thick as it simmers. Remove from heat.
Alternatively, use a prepared canned enchilada sauce, which can be perfectly fine.
3 Mix in 1/4 cup of the sauce with the cooked chicken, and a 1/4 cup of the cheese. Sprinkle with a little salt. Set aside.
4 Prepare the tortillas. There are 2 basic ways to prepare the tortillas - the traditional way of dipping them in the sauce and heating them individually, and my mom's way when she is trying to cut down on the fat.


Sunday, February 8, 2009

Whoah! Talk about falling off the wagon..!

Weekly Menu for 2/8 - 2/14

Sunday: Meatballs (from freezer) with spaghetti sauce
Monday: Pizza delivered, FREE. (Paid for with a nice bonus!
$16.50 + the cost of the pizza:)
Tuesday: Pork Potstickers, spinach and fruit
Wednesday: Spaghetti and Meatballs, rolls, green peas
Thursday: Pot roast with potatoes, onions and carrots
Friday: Shrimp etoufee over brown rice
Saturday: (Valentine's Day) Steaks with baked potatoes, asparagus, and chocolate strawberry shortcakes (baked in heart shaped muffin tins)
I realize this menu seems a bit extravagant. However all of this is freezer cleanout except Saturday-- which is a compromise to going out. For new readers, we don't usually eat this high on the hog. I am needing to clean out some items which have been there a while.