How I saved $64 at the grocery store

With the price of groceries going up and expected to rise more it's important for me to maximize my grocery shopping budget. I have a system that I find is useful and helps to keep me focused on the items I need.
Each week I look over the ads for the stores, making my list and matching coupons to sale items.
One of the grocery stores doubles 5 coupons up to $1.00 twice a week, when you spend $25.00 which isn't hard to do these days! Doubling the coupons helps to bring the grocery total way down! After reviewing the ads I then go to my pantry and cupboards to see what I need based on what's on sale that week and add those items to my list.
On one of my better grocery shopping trips I was able to get 38 items for $19.73 for  a total  savings of $64!
One of the featured items that week was a new pasta that had come out on sale for $1.00, there were also $1.00/1 coupons in the paper before that so I knew I would be getting some FREE pasta!
Some might think this system takes too much time, but it really doesn't and the organization  helps.
I think I spend an hr. or so each week and that includes clipping and organizing my coupons.
I will be talking more about how to save with coupons in a future post. Save your receipts and give this method a try. You will be shocked when you compare previous receipts to this new method of shopping, the nice surprise will be the extra money you have to put towards other things you need.
Until next time, happy shopping! L.

Free meals on your Birthday!

Who says there's no such thing as  a free lunch or dinner?
Did you know many places offer free meals on your Birthday? All you have to do is register on the websites and bring along your ID.
Here are some that I know of: IHOP free meal
Denny's: Free Grand Slam
Arby's : Free item with purchase
Noodles and Company: Free noodlebowl
Dairy Queen: buy 1 get 1 free Blizzard
Famous Dave's: bring in the coupon to see what your mystery gift is, appetizer etc.
Schlotzky's: not sure since we don't have them where I live but I know they have a free item on your Birthday.
Benihana: $30 gift certificate for Birthday person
Auntie Anne's pretzels: coupon for buy 1 get 1 free pretzel
Cold Stone Cremery : free scoop

clothing stores: Old Navy $10/$50 purchase
I know there are many more that are regional. It's a good idea to check with restaurants in your region.
Have fun celebrating with your Birthday freebies!
Until next time. L.