Saving for a Rainy Day

Yes, I know - we're all well aware that the economy is bad right now. So, we have been doing everything we can to stretch a buck around here. I've always been an avid user of coupons. I am one of those people that will not buy something at a store if I didn't bring my coupon with me or if I know a coupon will be coming out shortly for it. I try to never pay full price for anything, but with groceries, that is kind of a challenge. I mean, ground beef never really goes on sale. Well, actually - I did get a pack of ground beef at Sam's last week for 25% off, so I guess that's not really true. Anyways, like my two dear friends in Midlo (you know who you are!), I am in love with coupons!!! Dylan has actually started to get into it, too. Last night, he asked me if I have been keeping track of how much money I have been saving. Uh... no. I just know that when it comes time to pay, I love that I am saving $20-30 on average because of coupons.

Here's a picture of my latest haul. It's not a standard grocery trip by any means. These were just items that we always keep on hand in the house and they were on sale.



5 packs of applesauce cups
4 packs of orange cups
4 cans of soup
8 boxes of Mac & Cheese
Frozen Lasagna
Frozen potato skins
Cheez-it Crackers
Soft Scrub

Now, the retail price of all of these items is $45. You know how much I paid??? $16!!! That's right. I saved $29 because of sale prices and coupons. I know, you're jealous of my mad couponing skills. It's OK. :)

And if that didn't do it for you, here's a picture of what we paid for gas last weekend:



No, your eyes are not failing you. It really does say $0.79/gallon!!! Thanks to Dylan's Mom (Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!) and her Ukrop's points, we were able to fill up for less than I have ever in my entire life! All I know is that I am going to be very sad when my tank is empty and I have to fill up for almost $2/gallon. :(