My Favorite Valentine's Ideas!

Valentine's Day is right around the corner. Are you looking for some fun crafts to do with the kids?! I love Valentine's Day and have fun making it special for my kids. Not being as crafty as I might like to be, I usually go all out for Valentine's. Here are some of my favorite crafts I found at Family Fun's website. Keep in mind, my children range from 4 years to 8 years old, so I'm keeping it fairly simple here.
This is a Valentine craft I've been waiting all year to try! It's so cute and I know my kids will have fun helping to put these together for their friends. You can check out the full instructions HERE at Family Fun's website.


This one seems simple enough. Create a heart template or print this one HERE. Have your kids trace the heart onto sturdy card stock. You can probably find Valentine's pencils in the $1 aisle at Target, making this a fairly inexpensive craft for you and your kids to do together. Check out the full details and instructions HERE.


I thought this was a cute one for girls to enjoy! Click HERE for instructions. You can use the heart templates found HERE.


Okay, being a homeschooler, I just adore these! How cute, right?! My only concern is the cost factor. You might have to do a little searching for inexpensive rulers. If you have a suggestion on where to find them, please leave me a comment and I'll be sure to post it. Click HERE on the instructions for these cuter than cute Valentine's cards.

Family Fun Magazine is one of my favorite kid's craft resources. Click HERE to check out how you can get a 1-year subscription for only $1.00 per issue.

Family Fun Magazine on the Cheap!

I absolutely adore this magazine! Yes, it's all about family fun and crafts and super creative ideas to do with your children and family. I especially love their birthday party ideas!! You can see my post HERE where I made a sand castle birthday cake for my daughters using the exact recipe and instructions from Family Fun. They LOVED it!!

Now you can get a 1-year subscription (10 issues) for only $6.95 through Amazon! That's a fabulous deal that I just cannot pass up.



The price says $9.95, but a $3 credit will appear at checkout (no coupon code required) reducing the price down to $6.95. Plus, this item ships free and helps you qualify for free shipping if you're looking to get anything else from Amazon.

Most items, if shipped by Amazon themselves, qualify for free shipping once you reach a total of $25 or more. This magazine would put you $6.95 closer to reaching $25!

Family Fun for only $9.95!!

Amazon has Family Fun magazine on sale for only $9.95 for a 1-year subscription! This is a great magazine full of inexpensive ideas for crafts, birthday parties, and recipes.
Click HERE to order your subscription!

Here's just one of the ideas I've used from Family Fun's magazine:

My daughters absolutely loved this sandcastle cake for their birthday and the kids at the party gave rave reviews as well!

Family Fun Magazine for only $5.95/1-year!!

I am not really a magazine kinda girl! I just don't seem to find the time to read articles while homeschooling, blogging, cooking meals, cleaning house, coupon clipping, and running errands. BUT, this is one magazine that helps me with all of that. My kids benefit from the fun crafts, birthday cakes and party ideas, and other helpful information and I actually find it fun to read.

Really people, this and All You are my ONLY magazine subscriptions!

At only $5.95/1-year, you can't beat this price! Order Family Fun today! (The listing price states $9.95, however at checkout this price will change - thru the month of September only - to $5.95.)

If you are a magazine kinda girl (or guy), check out more magazine deals on Amazon HERE.

Fall Recipes! Let's Swap!!

I'm not a big fan of Halloween, but I absolutely LOVE the Fall season! As soon as the leaves start falling off the trees, I'm struck with Fall-fever. My husband laughs at me because it could be 90 degrees outside, and I'm decorating our house in Fall colors already. I can't help it!

Growing up in Michigan, we had the most beautiful colors on the trees every Fall. I miss it at this time of the year... So, I try to compensate by creating that feeling I used to have in my house here in Florida. I love hot apple cider, apple orchards, hay rides, bonfires, and the smell of pumpkin pie in the oven! So, with my memories of crisp, cool Fall mornings, I'm bringing to you some fun Fall recipes to help you get Fall-fever!

Emeril Lagasse has great reviews on this Hot Apple Cider with Rum! You can choose to not use the rum as well. In just 15 minutes, you can make this delicious drink. Once it does indeed get cooler, I can totally see putting the kids to bed, starting a fire in the fireplace, and cozying up with my husband on the couch while we sip our hot apple cider...

Our family has a favorite recipe that's a special treat for the Fall season! This Quick and Easy Pumpkin Pudding will get you in the mood for harvest time! Need a quick dessert for dinner? Add this one to your go-to recipes this season.

Apple Crisp a-la-mode! YUM!! Family Fun offers this delicious recipe. I think I have to make it tonight. It looks so delicious and I have all the ingredients. Let your kids help with this simple recipe and you might just start a Fall family tradition...


Frugal Girls has a fun recipe for Red Velvet Apple Cupcakes! Aren't these so adorable?! I think it would make for a fun treat for a Fall playday or bring dessert to your next get-together with friends or family.

Do you have a favorite Fall recipe?! Please share a link or a recipe in the comments. I love recipe swaps - especially this time of year!

Family Fun Magazine only $4.95 for 1-year!!

Today only Amazon has Family Fun Magazine for only $4.95 for 1-year! I love the ideas in this magazine. My children love their crafts and fun activities as well.

Interested in finding out more? Click HERE!

Handmade Christmas Gifts & Crafts

I am always looking for an inexpensive way to decorate, create unique and thoughtful gifts, or simply spend crafting time with my kids. So, in preparation of Christmas, I thought I'd highlight a few ideas I've come across that appeal to me - and maybe to you too!

I came across this Christmas candy cane ornament over at Family Fun's website (a great source for the crafters out there). It's a simple craft, pretty inexpensive with just a few supplies needed, and it's a fun craft to do with your kids (or grandkids). Wouldn't these look great on your Christmas tree this year?! Or, you could attach them to gifts for that added touch. Click HERE for full details on how to make these adorable candy canes.


Of course, my very favorite homemade gift to give away at Christmas is cookies! I find such joy in baking and secretly I think I get more fun out of the gift than those who receive it... Find an assortment of cookies you enjoy baking (some difficult, some super easy). Remember, it's Christmas and you only do this once a year, so make it special. Just don't make the cookies too difficult or you'll never want to do it again. One of our family's favorites is Nutella Biscotti. My husband is Italian and this is by far his favorite "cookie".


Now, I know many of you may not enjoy baking. So, if you're looking to give a "baking" gift, but don't have the gift of baking, check out Organized Christmas' website. They have printable tags to go on all sorts of gifts in a jar. Click HERE to browse their large selection.


If you enjoy sewing, here's a fun tote bag to try from my other website, Sew What Steph. This is a great gift for kids. Or simplify the pattern by omitting the patchwork aspect, use Christmas-themed fabric, and create totes for packaging your gifts. Click HERE for a full tutorial.

*HOT* Family Fun & Taste of Home Magazine Deals!

Best Deal Magazines is running a couple of specials that I'm excited about! These are two of my favorite magazines.

Right now you can get a 1-year subscription to Taste of Home magazine for only $5.40! Use the code TASTE at checkout. Click HERE. Then click on "Cooking" on the left side of the screen.


Get a 1-year subscription to Family Fun magazine for only $3.76. Simply use the code WKLYSPEC at checkout. Click HERE. Scroll down and click on "Family" on the left side.

Kiwi Magazine only $3.99/yr + more!

UPDATE:
Make this deal even better with 20% off Family Fun using the code WKLYSPEC at checkout! This makes it only $3.73/yr.

For an additional 15% off most magazines, use the code PXCJ829 at checkout!

Best Deal Magazines is a fabulous site to find discounted magazine subscriptions. For today only, they are offering Kiwi Magazine at only $3.99/1-year subscription! Don't miss out on Family Fun for only $3.73/yr as well.

CLICK HERE FOR MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS AS LOW AS $4.69

"Best Of" Publix Deals (11/27-12/2)

Prices vary slightly by regions, so be sure to check your weekly ad HERE before you head out to shop!

Don't forget about the Yellow Advantage Buy Deals for even more great deals!!

Need any of the coupons listed below?? Order them super cheap through Manufacturer's Coupons!

Look for this HOT In-Ad Coupon!!
$10 off the purchase of a $50 BP Gas Card with a Grocery purchase of $25 or more.
(Coupon states "Limit one deal per coupon per person.")

BOGO DEALS:

Alexia Natural Crunchy Snacks, Assorted Varieties, 4.5 or 5 oz bag *HOT DEAL*
BOGO $2.89
Use 2 $1/1 from November All You ($.89/2)
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE and HERE ($.89/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from 10/4 SS (exp. 11/30) (Pay $1.89/2)

Bantry Bay Mussels, Assorted Varieties, 16 oz pkg
BOGO $4.99

Bic Disposable Razors: Comfort3 Advance or Bic 3 Triple Blade Sensitive Skin for Men or Soleil: Bella 4 Blades or Triple Blade Sensitive Skin for Women, 3-8 ct pk
BOGO $5.49
Use 2 $2/1 from 10/18 SS (exp. 11/29) (Pay $1.49/2)

Birds Eye Voila! Meal, Assorted Varieties, 21-23 oz bag
BOGO $4.99
Use $1/2 from 11/8 SS (Pay $3.99/2)
Use $1/2 Printable HERE (Pay $3.99/2)
*Purchase UP! Bluray or DVD and 2 bags Voila! meals, Get $5 Rebate HERE!

Cheez-It Baked Snack Crackers or Party Mix, Assorted Varieties, 11.5 to 14-oz box
BOGO $3.99
Use 2 $.75/1 Printable HERE (Pay $2.49/2)
Use $1.50/2 from 10/4 RP (exp. 11/29) (Pay $2.49/2)

Crisco 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 16.9 oz bottle
BOGO $6.49
Use 2 $.75/1 from 11/8 RP or 9/13 RP (Pay $4.99/2)

Dixie Plates or Bowls, Assorted Varieties, 20-48 oz pkg
BOGO $2.93

Electrasol Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Gel: Lemon or Fresh Scent with Jet-Dry 2-in-1 power, 75 oz bottle
BOGO $4.39
Use 2 $.25/1 from 11/15 SS (Pay $3.89/2)
Use $.50/1 Printable HERE (Pay $3.39/2)

Entenmann’s Little Bites, Assorted Varieties, 6.6-11 oz box
BOGO $3.99

Fisher Fusions Snack Mix, Assorted Varieties, 4.75-5.25 oz bag *HOT DEAL*
BOGO $1.79
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (FREE/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from 11/22 SS or 11/15 SS (FREE/2)

Fresh Express Spinach, 9 oz bag (Regional Sale!)
BOGO $2.49
Use 2 $.55/1 Printable HERE (Pay $1.39/2)

Immaculate Baking Co. Cookie Dough, Better Bakes: Chocolate Chunk, Triple Chocolate Chunk or Vanilla Sugar, 14 oz bag *HOT DEAL*
BOGO $3.09
Use 2 $1/1 from Publix GreenWise magazine (Pay $1.09/2)

Kodak Power Flash Camera, one-time-use, 27 exposure
BOGO $8.29

Kotex Maxi Pads 14-24 ct pkg, or Lightdays Pantiliners, 40-64 ct pkg, Assorted Varieties
BOGO $3.39
Use $2/2 from 11/8 SS or 10/4 SS (exp. 11/29) Pads (Pay $1.39/2)
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) (Pay $1.39/2)
Use $1.50/2 from 11/8 SS or 10/4 SS (exp. 11/29) Lightdays Pantiliners (Pay $1.89/2)

Kraft Barbecue Sauce, Assorted Varieties, 16.25 or 18 oz bottle
BOGO $1.69

Land O Lakes Cheese, Selected Varieties, 8 oz pkg, located in the pre-packaged Deli Section
BOGO $3.59
Use $1/2 from 11/15 SS (Pay $2.59/2)

McCormick Pure Ground Black Pepper, 4 oz can
BOGO $2.79
Use 2 $.55/1 from All the Trimmings booklet (Pay $1.69/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from 11/1 RP (Pay $1.79/2)

Mrs. Paul’s Fish, Assorted Varieties, 8-11.4 oz pkg, or Clams, 8 oz pkg
BOGO $4.49

Musselman’s Apple Sauce, Assorted Varieties, 6-pk, 4 oz cups *HOT DEAL*
BOGO $2.33
Use 2 $.75/1 from Winter Family Savings booklet (Pay $.83/2)

Nestle Fun Size Bars or Miniatures, Assorted Varieties, 11-12.5 oz bag
BOGO $3.21
Use $1/2 Printable HERE Jingles, if included (Pay $2.21/2)

Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popping Corn, Assorted Varieties, 6 or 10-pk, 12-19.8 oz box, or 30 oz jar
BOGO $4.89
Use 2 $1/1 from December All You (Pay $2.89/2)
Use 2 $.40/1 from 11/15 SS (Pay $4.09/2)

Pepperidge Farm Three Layer Cake, Assorted Varieties, 19 or 19.6 oz box
BOGO $3.99

Pomegranates
BOGO $2.99
Use $1/2 from Publix GreenWise magazine (Pay $1.99/2)
Use $3/$8 Produce Harvey's Printable HERE

Post Honey Bunches of Oats Cereal, Assorted Varieties, 13-17 oz, Vanilla Clusters, 18 oz or Just Bunches!, 17 oz box, (Excluding Family Size)
BOGO $3.99

Publix Deli Pre-Sliced Sweet Ham, 12 oz pkg (Regional Sale!)
BOGO $4.99

Publix Deluxe American Cheese sliced, 12 oz pkg
BOGO $3.49

Quaker Cereal Life, Assorted Varieties, 21 oz, Squares, 16 oz, or Cap’n Crunch, 20.7-22 oz box
BOGO $4.49

Quick ‘N Eat Charbroiled Burgers Angus, Cheddar, or Cheddar Bacon, 18 oz pkg
BOGO $6.79

Red Baron Pizza, Assorted Varieties, 14.76-25.35 oz box
BOGO $5.79
Use 2 $1/1 from 10/18 SS or 9/20 SS (Pay $3.79/2)

Scotch Gift Wrap Tape *HOT DEAL*
BOGO $2.49
Use 2 $1/1 from Winter Family Savings booklet (Pay $.49/2)

Shedd’s Spread Country Crock Regular or Churn Style, 15 oz tub, or Twin pack, 2-pk, 7.5 oz tub *HOT DEAL*
BOGO $1.99
Use 2 $.50/1 Printable HERE (Pay $.99/2)
Use 2 $.30/1 from 9/20 RP (Pay $1.39/2)

Shout Laundry Stain Remover with Trigger, 22 oz bottle
BOGO $2.99

Taco Bell Home Originals Dinner!, Assorted Varieties, 10.75-16.35 oz box
BOGO $2.69

Thomas’ Bagels, Assorted Varieties, 18 or 20 oz bag
BOGO $3.99

Whitman’s Sampler, Assorted Chocolates, 12 oz box

BOGO $9.99

Willow Lane Premium Scented Candle, 19 oz jar
BOGO $9.99

Yoplait Fiber One Yogurt, Assorted Varieties, 4-pk, 4 oz cups *HOT DEAL*
BOGO $2.50
Use 2 $1.25/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) (FREE/2)
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (Pay $.50/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from 10/4 GM (Pay $.50/2)

SALES:

Blue Bell Ice Cream, assorted varieties, 1/2 gallon
$3.99/1
Use $1/1 Printable HERE (Pay $2.99/1)

Boston Market Homestyle Meals, assorted varieties, 9.7-16 oz box
$2/1
Use $1/3 Printable HERE (Pay $5/6)

Breakstone's Cottage Cheese, assorted varieties, 24 oz tub
$2.50/1

Eggland's Best Eggs, 18-ct pkg
$2.50/1
Use $.35/1 from 11/1 SS or 9/13 SS (Pay $2.15/1)

General Mills Fiber One Cereal, assorted varieties, 14.25-17.25 oz box or Granola Bars, 7 oz box
$2.50/1
Use $1/2 from 11/15 GM or 10/25 SS Cereal (Pay $4/2)
Use $.40/1 from 10/4 GM Bars (Pay $1.10/1)
Use $4/4 GM Fiber One Cereal In-Ad Q (Publix Q) (Pay $6/4)
Stack both MFR & Publix Q's and Pay $4/4!

Glad Bags, Selected Varieties, 8, 13, or 30-gal, 14-28 ct pkg
$3.69/1
Use $1/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) Forceflex, if included (Pay $2.69/1)

Kleenex Cottonelle Toilet Paper Double Roll: Ultra or With Ripples or Aloe & E Giant Roll, 12-roll pkg
$6.49/1
Use $.50/1 Printable HERE (Pay $5.99/1 or $.50/roll)

Kleenex Tissues, Selected Varieties, 75-200 ct box *HOT DEAL*
$1.33/1
Use $.75/1 Printable HERE (Pay $.58/1)

Kleenex Viva Paper Towels Premium or Choose-A-Size, 8-roll pkg
$5.99/1
Use $2/1 Printable HERE (Pay $3.99/1 or $.50/roll)

Lipton Tea, assorted varieties, 12-pk, 16.9 oz bottles
$5.99/1
Use $1/1 Target Printable HERE (Pay $4.99/1)

Soft Scrub Cleanser or Stain Fighting Formula Gel, Assorted Varieties, 24 to 28.6-oz bot, or Disposable Scrubby Pads, 12-ct box
$2.50/1
Use $.50/1 from 10/4 SS (exp. 11/30) 17 oz or larger (Pay $2/1)
Use $1/1 Printable HERE Scrubby Pads (Pay $1.50/1)

V8 V-Fusion 100% Juice or Vegetable & Fruit or V8 100% Vegetable Juice, assorted varieties, 46 oz bottle
$2.50/1
Use $1/1 Printable HERE and HERE (Pay $1.50/1)

MEAT / SEAFOOD:

Use $2/$6 Meat Department Harvey's Printable HERE

Beef Cubed Steaks
$3.79/lb

Beef For Stew
$3.99/lb

Boneless Chuck Pot Roast
$2.99/lb

Crown Flat Cut Corned Beef
$2.99/lb

Fresh Tilapia Fillets, Farm-Raised, Never Frozen
$4.99/lb

Ground Sirloin
$3.49/lb
(Patties, $3.79/lb)
Use $2/$6 Ground Beef Harvey's Printable HERE (exp. 12/1)

Large Florida Pink Shrimp, Wild Harvested, Previously Frozen, 31-40 per pound
$6.99/lb

Oscar Mayer Beef Franks Regular, Light, Bun Length, XXL Deli Style or Jumbo, 16 oz pkg
$2.50/1

Publix Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast *HOT DEAL* Stock Up Price!
$1.79/lb

Publix Mild or Hot Italian Sausage
$2.99/lb

Publix New York Strip Steaks
$6.99/lb

Publix Thin-Sliced Meats Ham: Cooked or Honey; or Turkey Breast: Roasted or Honey Smoked, 16 oz pkg
$3.49/1
Use $1/$4 Harvey's Printable HERE

Small Lobster Tails, Wild Harvested, Previously Frozen, 3 oz minimum
$4.99/1

Sunnyland Hotel Brand Bacon Original or Lower Sodium, 12 oz pkg
$2/1

Whole Pork Tenderloin
$4.99/lb

PRODUCE:

Bartlett Pears
$.99/lb

Broccoli or Cauliflower
$1.98/1

Brussels Sprouts
$1.99/lb

Chiquita Bananas
$.39/lb

Fuyu Persimmons
$.89/1

Navel Oranges, 4 or 5 lb bag
$2.50/1

Red Seedless Grapes
$1.49/lb

Red Delicious Apples
$.99/lb

Red Grapefruit, 4 or 5 lb bag
$2.50/1

Sunkist Lemons
$.50/1

Tomatoes on the Vine
$1.99/lb

ORGANIC / GREENWISE:

Publix GreenWise Market Organic Salad, assorted varieties, 4-10 oz bag
$2.50/1

Publix GreenWise Market Top Round London Broil
$4.49/lb

Christmas / Holiday Items:

Assorted Holiday Bags and Boxes
Starting at $.39

Assorted Holiday Bows
Starting at $1.59
Use $1/2 from Winter Family Savings booklet (Pay $2.18/2)

Assorted Holiday Lights
Starting at $1.99
Use $1/2 from Winter Family Savings booklet (Pay $2.98/2)

Assorted Holiday Plush
Starting at $2.99
Use $1/1 from Winter Family Savings booklet (Pay $1.99/1)

Assorted Holiday Toys
Starting at $1.99
Use $1/1 from Winter Family Savings booklet (Pay $.99/1)

Assorted Holiday Wrap
Starting at $1.99
Use $1/2 from Winter Family Savings booklet (Pay $2.98/2)

Black Canyon Express Train Set, 40-piece
$49.99
Use $3/1 from Winter Family Savings booklet (Pay $46.99/1)

Holiday Reusable Bags
$.99/1

In-Ad COUPONS:

• Buy 1 Expressions from Hallmark Gift Wrap Item, Get 1 Expressions from Hallmark Gift Wrap Item Free (up to 2.49)
• $10 off the purchase of a $50 BP Gas Card with a Grocery purchase of $25 or more
• $4 off the purchase of Four General Mills Fiber One Cereal, Assorted Varieties, 14.25-17.25 oz box, or Granola Bars, 7 oz box
• $7 off the purchase of Two Enfamil Infant Powder Formula or Enfagrow, 23.4-25.7 oz can
  

FREE Summer Movies!

Starting in June 2009, Regal Cinemas will be offering free admission to selected G & PG movies starting at 10AM each Tuesday and Wednesday during the Family Film Festival. First-come, first-served seating is limited to theatre capacity. The Free Family Film Festival is safe, lots of fun and a great way for kids to spend a weekday morning in the summer.

You cannot order tickets online to these movies, so be sure to get there early for good seating!
Find a Regal Cinemas near you by clicking HERE!


Regal isn't the only theatre to offer Family Summer Movies! For only $1.00 - which goes to charity - AMC is offering a Summer MovieCamp. On top of that, they are offering a $3 Summer MovieCamp Kid's Pack Snack for movie watching!

Shows start at 10:00 a.m. every Wednesday. If you're coming as a group, you can purchase tickets one week in advance starting June 10 at the box office or online at participating theatres.
To find a participating theatre near you click HERE!

If you're not sure about the movie selection, Plugged-In is a great resource for family-based movie reviews. Simply enter the title of the movie you're interested in seeing and read the review on the movie.

See you at the movies!!

Popular Magazines only $4.69 for 1-year!!

Best Deal Magazines has a fabulous sale on a 1-year subscription to these magazines:

Click HERE to get the following magazines for only $4.69 for a 1-year subscription! No coupon code required.

• Family Fun Magazine
• Parents Magazine
• Woman's Day Magazine
• Weight Watchers Magazine
• Family Circle Magazine
  

This offer is valid on new, gift, and renewal subscriptions. In addition, unlike many other magazine websites, Best Deal Magazines does NOT automatically renew you at a higher rate after your subscription term is finished. To clear up any potential confusion, make sure you choose from the $4.69 Subscriptions" category.

Homeschool Mondays - Chore Charts

If you're a homeschooler, then you probably know that Mondays can be rough. I'm usually trying to play catch-up from all of the housework that didn't get done over the weekend.

On the subject of housework, I thought I'd talk about chore charts this week. We have tried several methods of chore charts in our home in the past, and honestly, I just don't keep up with them enough. I'm not the type of person that likes to be constrained to one single way of doing something. However, I am the type of person that loves organizing and planning out my day, schedule, life, etc. The two don't always jive well together. With a 6-year-old, and 4-year-old, I really want to start teaching our children the value of hard work.

I found a neat idea online for a game to make chores fun for younger children. I can see how this might cause fights, but we're going to try it.

Here's What You Need:

• Clean, empty applesauce cups or baby food jars (enough for the number of chores)
  
• Construction Paper (varied colors)
• Sharpie/Pen/Pencil
  
• Tape
• Small stone, tiddliwink, checker, etc. to throw into the cup

How to Make One:

• Cut circles of construction paper to fit inside the bottom of the applesauce cups
• Write a chore on each circle (i.e., Make Bed, Fold Laundry, Dishes, etc)
• Tape the circles to the bottom of the applesauce cups
• Optional: Glue cups to a piece of cardboard for stability
• The children take turns throwing a checker or something small (non-harmful), into the cups, which will determine which chore they are responsible for that day. It may be multiple tasks.
  

Here are some links on Chore Charts and different methods of making them fun:

• HandiPoints: Create & Print your own task charts for FREE
• Age Appropriate Chore Charts
• Making Chores Fun for the Family: An article on how to keep chores fun
  

So, my question to you whether you homeschool or not, do you use chore charts in your home? What works best for you? What age do you start assigning chores?

"Best Of" Publix Deals (9/17-9/23)

Here are my finds for the "Best Of" Publix Deals for the week of 9/17-9/23!

Be sure to check your weekly ad HERE before you head out to shop!

BOGO DEALS:

A.1. Steak House Marinade, assorted varieties, 16 oz bottle
Price BOGO $2.89

Arnold Whole Grains Bread, assorted varieties, 24 oz loaf
Price BOGO $3.69

Bausch & Lomb Renu Multi-Purpose Solution or MultiPlus No Rub, 12 oz bottle
Price BOGO $8.99
Use 2 $2/1 Printable HERE (Pay $4.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (Pay $6.99/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from 8/9 SS (Pay $6.99/2)

Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks or Sunkist, assorted varieties, 4.5-9 oz box
Price BOGO $2.59
Use $1/2 Printable HERE (Pay $1.59/2)
Use $1/2 from Better At Home (A) coupon booklet (Pay $1.59/2)
Use 2 $.40/1 Printable HERE and HERE Shapes variety (Pay $1.79/2)
Use $.50/2 Printable HERE and HERE (Pay $2.09/2)

Breyers Ice Cream, assorted varieties, 48 oz carton
Price BOGO $4.99
Use $.75/1 Target Printable HERE (Pay $4.24/2)
Use 2* $.75/1 Target Printable HERE (Pay $3.24/2)
*Target coupons state "Limit 1 per transaction", however some Publix stores allow multiples. Check with your store manager to find out their policy.

Chatham Village Croutons, assorted varieties, 5 oz bag
Price BOGO $1.49

College Inn Broth, assorted varieties, 32 oz ctn
Price BOGO $2.79

Del Monte Fresh Cut Vegetables, assorted varieties, 11-15.25 oz can (excluding Specialty Varieties and Asparagus)
Price BOGO $1.29

Del Monte Tomatoes, assorted varieties, 14.5 oz can
Price BOGO $1.49

Doritos Tortilla Chips, assorted varieties, 11.75-14.5 oz bag
Price BOGO $3.99

Electrasol Finish Dishwasher Detergent, assorted varieties, Powerball or Gelpacs, 32-ct box, or Quantum, 20-ct box
Price BOGO $7.79
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE Quantum product (Pay $5.79/2)
Use 2 $.75/1 from 8/30 SS Quantum, Powerball Tabs or Gelpacs (Pay $6.29/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 Printable HERE Any (Pay $6.79/2)
Use 2 $.25/1 from 8/30 SS Powder or Gel Detergent (Pay $7.29/2)

Entenmann's Pop 'ems Glazed Donuts, 16 oz box
Price BOGO $3.99

Glade PlugIns Scented Oil Refills, assorted varieties, 2-ct box
Price BOGO $5.49
Use 2 $2/1 from Publix One Stop. One Shop. coupon booklet (MFR Q) (Pay $1.49/2)
Use $1/2 from 9/13 SS (Pay $4.49/2)

Glass Plus Glass & Multi-Surface Cleaner, 32 oz bottle
Price BOGO $2.49
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (Pay $.49/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from 8/23 SS (Pay $1.49/2)

Hebrew National Kosher All Beef Franks Original, Reduced Fat, 97% Fat Free, or Jumbo; or Knockwurst, 11 or 12 oz pkg
Price BOGO $4.99
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (Pay $2.99/2)

Hefty Everyday Plates, Soak Proof, 130-ct pkg
Price BOGO $4.99
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (Pay $2.99/2)
Use 2 $.50/1 from 6/21 RP Hearty Meals or Elegant Ware, if included (Pay $3.99/2)

Keebler Pecan Sandies Shortbread Cookies, assorted varieties, 9.5-16 oz bag
Price BOGO $3.99
Use 2 $.55/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) (Pay $2.89/2)

Kellogg's Special K Cereal, assorted varieties, 11.4-14 oz box
Price BOGO $3.99
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE Blueberry variety (Pay $1.99/2)
Use $1/2 Target Printable HERE (Pay $2.99/2)
Stack both Manufacturer & Target Q and Pay $.99/2!!

Ken's Steak House Dressing or Lite Accents, assorted varieties, 7 or 16 oz bottle (Excluding 8 oz Salad Dressings)
Price BOGO $3.19
Use $1/2 from 8/2 SS (Pay $2.19/2)

Kraft Easy Mac Macaroni & Cheese Dinner Original, Extreme Cheese, Big Pack Original, or Animal Shapes, 12.05 or 12.9 oz box
Price BOGO $3.39
Use 2 $1/3 Walgreens Printable HERE (Pay $8.17/6)

Kraft Mayonnaise or Miracle Whip Dressing, assorted varieties, 32 oz jar
Price BOGO $4.29
Use 2 $.75/1 from Summer '09 Kraft Food & Family magazine (Pay $2.79/2)
Use $1/2 from Fall '09 Kraft Food & Family magazine (Pay $3.29/2)

LifeSavers Candy or Mints, assorted varieties, 6.25 oz bag, or Pops, 4.2 oz bag
Price BOGO $1.89

Nabisco Family Size Crackers, assorted varieties, 12-16 oz box
Price BOGO $4.49
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) Wheat Thins (Pay $2.49/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from Fall '09 Kraft Food & Family magazine, Wheat Thins (Pay $2.49/2)
Use 2 $1/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) Wheat Thins Flatbread, if included (Pay $2.49/2)

Northland 100% Juice Blend, assorted varieties, 64-oz
Price BOGO $3.95
Use $1/2 Printable HERE (Pay $2.95/2)

Pepperidge Farm Swirl Bread, assorted varieties, 16 oz loaf
Price BOGO $3.59

Perdue Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets, Chicken Tenders, or Breaded Chicken Nuggets Fun Shapes, fully cooked, 12 oz pkg
Price BOGO $4.39

Planters Peanuts: Dry Roasted or Cocktail Peanuts, assorted varieties, 16 oz jar
Price BOGO $3.19

Post Cereal Fruity or Cocoa Pebbles, Honey-Comb or Alpha-Bits, 11-12.5 oz box
Price BOGO $3.89

Publix Deli Old Fashioned Lemonade, 1 gallon
Price BOGO $2.99
Use $3/$10 Food Lion Printable HERE

Purina Beggin' Strips Dog Snacks, Bacon Flavor or Cheese & Bacon Flavor, 10 oz
Price BOGO $4.99
Use $1/2 from 8/23 SS or 7/12 RP (Pay $3.99/2)

Quaker Chewy Granola Bars, assorted varieties, 8.4 or 8.7 oz box
Price BOGO $2.99
Use $1/2 Printable HERE (Pay $1.99/2)
Use $.75/2 from 8/30 RP (Pay $2.24/2)

Quaker Instant Grits, assorted varieties, 12-pk, 12 oz box
Price BOGO $2.75
Use $1/2 from 8/30 RP (Pay $1.75/2)

Tyson Chicken Patties, assorted varieties, 26 oz pkg
Price BOGO $6.59
Use 2 $1/1 from August All You (Pay $4.59/2)
Use 2 $1/1 from 8/2 SS (Pay $4.59/2)
Use $2/1 Food Lion Printable HERE (Pay $4.59/2)
Use 2* $2/1 Food Lion Printable HERE (Pay $2.59/2)
Stack both Manufacturer & 2 Food Lion Q's and Pay $.59/2!!
*Food Lion coupons state "Limit 1 print per customer", however some Publix stores allow multiples. Check with your store manager to find out their policy.

V8 Splash Beverage or Diet V8 Splash, assorted varieties, Antioxidant Plus, 64 oz
Price BOGO $3.29
Use $1/2 from 9/13 SS (Pay $2.29/2)

Weight Watchers Smart Ones Desserts, 4.58-6.6 oz pkg
Price BOGO $2.59
Use $1/5 Printable HERE (Pay $6.77/6)
Use FREE Smart Ones Dessert wyb (4) Smart Ones Frozen Products from August All You (Pay $2.59/4)
Use $2/5 Publix Toss 4 Cash coupon booklet (store coupon) (Pay $5.77/6)
Stack both Manufacturer & Publix Q and Pay $2.18/6!!

SALES:

Cascadian Farm Vegetables or Potatoes, assorted varieties, 7.4-16 oz pkg
Price $2/1
Use $1/1 Printable HERE (Pay $1/1)
Use $1/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) (Pay $1/1)

Dannon Activa Yogurt, assorted varieties, 4-pk, 4 oz cups
Price $2/1
Use $1/1 from 8/30, 8/9, or 7/26 SS (Pay $1/1)
Use $1/1 from Publix Family Fitness coupon booklet (Pay $1/1)

Friendship Sour Cream, 16 oz
Price $.99/1
Use $1/2 from 9/13 SS (Pay $.98/2)

General Mills Cheerios, 8.9 oz box
Price $1.99/1
Use $1/2 Printable HERE (Pay $2.98/2)
Use FREE Reusable Shopping Bag wyb 2 GM products from Better At Home (B) coupon booklet or Peelie on box (FREE Bag!)

Glad Kitchen Bags or Trash Bags, selected varieties, 25-80 ct
Price $5.49/1
Use $1/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) ForceFlex, if included (Pay $4.49/1)
Use $1.50/1 from Walgreens September Coupon Book (Pay $4.99/1)
Stack both Manufacturer & Walgreens Q and Pay $2.49/1!!

Hood Simply Smart Milk, 1% or Fat Free, Regular or Chocolate, 1/2 gallon
Price $2.50/1
Use $1/1 from 9/13 SS (Pay $1.50/1)

Kashi All Natural Pizza, Entrees, or Waffles, assorted varieties, 9-13 oz box
Price 50% off
Use $1/1 Target Printable HERE

Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese: Original, Fat Free, or 1/3 Less Fat, 8 oz box
Price $1.25/1
Use $1/1 from Publix Grape magazine (Pay $.25/1)
Use $.55/1 from Cheese Loves Company coupon booklet (Pay $.70/1)

Pillsbury Rolls or Squares, Twists, Breadsticks, Pizza Crust, Crescent, or Loaf, 8-13.9 oz
Price $1.67/1
Use $1/2 Printable HERE and HERE Crescent Rolls (Pay $2.34/2)
Use $1/2 Printable HERE and HERE Sweet Rolls or Grands Sweet Rolls (Pay $2.34/2)
Use $1/2 from Better At Home (A) coupon booklet Crescent Dough Sheets (Pay $2.34/2)
Use $.40/2 Printable HERE Italian breads (Pay $2.94/2)

Pringles Potato Chips, assorted varieties, 5.71-6.42 oz canister
Price $1.25/1
Use $1/2 from 8/30 P&G (Pay $1.50/2)

Publix Bakery French Bread Loaf, 12 oz
Price $1.49/1
Use $3/$10 Food Lion Printable HERE

Snack Factory Pretzle Crisps, assorted varieties, 6 oz pkg (excludes Chocolate Covered varieties)
Price $2/1
Use $1/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) Garlic variety (Pay $1/1)
Use $1/1 Printable HERE (FF) or HERE (IE) Everything variety (Pay $1/1)

Uncle Ben's Ready Rice, assorted varieties, 8.5 or 8.8 oz pouch
Price $1.33/1
Use $1/2 Printable HERE (Pay $1.66/2)
Use $1/2 from 9/13 RP Target Coupon (Pay $1.66/2)
Stack both Manufacturer & Target Q and Pay $.66/2!!

MEAT & SEAFOOD:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (Stock Up PRICE!!!)
$1.99/lb

Fresh Tilapia Fillets, Farm Raised, Never Frozen
Price $4.99/lb

Ground Round
Price $2.99/lb

Lee's Smoked Pork Picnic
Price $.99/lb

Whole Boneless Pork Loin
Price $1.99/lb

PRODUCE:

Use $1/$3 Product Department Harvey's Printable HERE

Bartlett Pears
Price $.78/lb

Bell Peppers, 2-lb bag
Price $2.99/1

Broccoli Crowns
Price $.99/lb

Chiquita Bananas
Price $.57/lb

Naval Oranges
Price $1.49/lb

Publix Baby Cut Peeled Carrots
Price $1.29/1-lb bag
Price $2.49/2-lb bag
Price $3.29/3-lb bag

Thompson Seedless Grapes
Price $1.49/lb

ORGANIC / GREENWISE:

Publix GreenWise Market Beef Ground Chuck
Price $3.49/lb

Publix GreenWise Market Top Sirloin Steaks
Price $6.99/lb

Publix GreenWise Market Top Sirloin Fillets
Price $7.99/lb

Here are a few coupon links for this week:
$3 off $10 Deli/Bakery Purchase at Food Lion (exp. 12/31/09)



You can find these deals and more each week at
BeCentsAble's Original Grocery Gathering!

It's Fun to be Frugal!!

Though you may think it's a hassle to live a frugal lifestyle, I actually think it's fun to be frugal! Granted, there are times when it can be a challenge to stay on a budget, but overall, the results of frugality far outweigh the challenges.

I love to see how God can work through our finances. My husband and I have developed a new way of looking at finances through saving. God has richly blessed our family in more ways than one ever since we took the challenge to live on less. Whether we're saving for that next car, a family vacation, or just want to be able to give more back to the Lord, it's exciting to see how it can add up.

With times changing and more people looking for ways to cut back on costs, it can sometimes become a necessity to live a more frugal lifestyle. Either that, or we go into debt! I choose to be frugal. If you don't look at it as a burden, but rather a challenge, it can be fun to find those great deals (whether it's using coupons or simply cutting out some expenses in our lives).

When we learn to live on less, we tend to not miss the things that we had. Sometimes those "things" are more of a burden. An illustration in the book I'm reading (The Treasure Principle) shows an example of this. The writer says,

"Let's say I get a television for free. Now what? I hook up the antenna or subscribe to a cable service. I buy a new VCR or DVD player. I rent movies. I get surround-sound speakers. I buy a recliner so I can watch my programs in comfort. This all costs money. But it also takes large amounts of time, energy, and attention.
. . . So what's the true cost of my "free" television?"

Fun Magazine Deals for Parents & Kids!

Family Finds has a couple of magazine deals worth looking into. If you're a parent of a school-aged child, I'm sure you know the value of fun and interesting magazines - if for no other reason than to let your child cut out pictures for collages and other school projects!

For only $6, you can get a 1-year subscription to Kiwi Magazine. Click HERE for this deal.


FamilyFinds has another fun magazine deal going on. Get a 1-year subscription to Scholastic's Parent & Child magazine for only $4.00! Click HERE for this deal.