Stretch Those Pennies

Usually I hate going to the mail box. I don't need the lastest Land's End or Victoria's Secret catalogue. I don't care to switch insurance companies and I just bought a new car --Larry Miller stop sending me fake keys with a "chance to win a new Dodge Caravan." I had a Dodge Caravan for 7 years. Hated it!!! And let's not forget all those bills that keep coming that I don't want to pay.

Anyway, this week was a little different. I went to my mailbox and there was Kohls cash and JC Penny cash!! I love these $10 off $10 coupons. I know it's a marketing ploy to get you in there to spend more than $10, but so far I have staved off spending too much over the $10. These are like little free shopping sprees for me. The "money" they send me isn't like other money I get--intended to be spent on something specific. I can use this any way I choose. Some of you may just be throwing these out with other 'junk' mail. Don't do that.

Here's what I've been able to do with my "free money" from these two fine establishments. These purchases have been made over the last 6 months, using the coupons from the mail

One full set of Sage Green Towels retail $13 I paid .63 cents
2 packages underwear (6 pr. each) retail $20 I paid $1.61 (for both)
Dangling Chandelier earrings retail $15 I paid .53 cents (love these earrings!!)
Fisher price learning toy retail $25-30 I paid $2.13
Dora Birthday doll retail $15 I paid $2.12
Tan toiletseat cover retail $16 I paid $2.13
3 boys t-shirts retail $21 I paid .68 cents
Two scarves retail $40 I paid $2.12
Disney Princess I Spy book -FREE
Disney Princess back pack FREE
Girls Pj's retail $18 I paid $4

I 've said to many of you in the past that math was never my strong suit. Hence five kids in 8 1/2 years--I am way outnumbered. But clearance math, sales math and money math I can do. These coupons are awesome because you can use them on sale and clearance items. JC Penny does have some retrictions--listed on the coupons, but Kohls is awesome. So next time you go to throw out your coupons think about this: "What basics can I stock up on?" Keep a list of who needs socks,t-shirts, underwear. towels, etc. in your head or wallet. Yes you will probably spend a dollar to two, but chances are these are items you would be buying anyway, so why not save a bit. Also if you don't have a current need you can always pass it on to someone else or you can buy basics and donate them to local charities. When I worked at the homeless shelter we were always looking for socks, towels, blankets and other necessities for our clients.

Happy shopping!