Best Bloom Deals: 12/29-01/04

Thanks to Sarah at Capitally Frugal for the best Bloom deals each week.


1) Bloom is offering Super Double Coupons (doubling up to $1.99) on 1/1.
2) *denotes coupons that double everyday, **coupons that double on January 1st

Jimmy Dean Fully Cooked Sausage - $3.00
Use $1.00/1**, found in 10/31 RP
$1.00 after the coupon

Excedrin (20-24 ct) - $2.50
Use $1.00/1**, found in 10/17 SS or 12/5 SS
$0.50 after the coupon

Prego Pasta Sauce - 3/$5
Use $0.75/2*, found in 10/3 SS
$0.91/each, when you buy 2

Peter Pan Peanut Butter - 3/$5
Use $0.50/1*, found in 11/14 SS or 1/2 SS
$0.66 after the coupon



See the complete list of deals here.

Hot Daily Deal: $20 for $40 Worth of Pampers!

Today's daily deal on Plum District is $20 for $40 worth of Pampers diapers from Diapers.com!  The voucher may not be applied toward shipping or taxes, but Diapers.com has free two-day shipping on orders over $49. Limit is one voucher per household.

When you first sign up for Plum District, you also get $5 towards your first purchase, which I assume you could apply towards this deal.  That would make it just $15 for $40 worth of Pampers!

This post contains a referral link, which helps support this site.

Wegmans Deals:12/26-01/01

New Deals:

Wegmans 100% Arabica Ground Coffee (11 oz., excludes Decaf and Colombian) - $1.99

Ongoing Deals:

Produce -
Winter Squash - $.99/lb.
Wegmans California Navel Oranges (4 lb. bag) - $3.49
Wegmans US #1 3lb. Bagged Apples - $.2.49
US #1 NY State Apple Tote - $.89/lb.
Wegmans US #1 White Potatoes (5 lb. bag) - $1.99

Seasonal Baking Deals (all through 01/01) -
McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract - $2.99-$3.99
Use $.25/1 (doubled) or $1.00/2 from 11/07 RP insert
Final Price: $2.49-$3.49 each
Wegmans Light Brown, Dark Brown, or Confectioners' Sugar (2 lb.) - $1.19 (Limit 2 Bags)
Wegmans Granulated Sugar (5 lbs.) - $1.99 (Limit 2 Bags)
Betty Crocker Cookie Mixes - $1.69
Use $.40/1 coupon from 11/14 GM insert or here, here, or here
Final Price: $.89
Wegmans All Purpose Flour (5 lbs.) - $.99 (Limit 2)
Nestle Tollhouse Morsels (10-12 oz.) - $1.69 (through 01/08)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Final Price: $1.19 each

Grocery -
Nabisco Ritz, Triscuit, and Wheat Thins - $1.99-$2.00 (through 01/01)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 11/14 SS insert
Final Price: $1.49-$1.50
Campbell's Select Harvest Soups - $.99
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Final Price: $.49 each
Swanson Broth (14.5 oz. cans) - $.60 (through 01/01)
Buy 5 and use $.50/5 from from 11/17 SS insert (doubled)
Final Price: $.40 each
Uncle Ben's Ready Rice (8.3-8.8 oz., all varieties) - $1.50
Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 9/12 RP insert
Final price: $1.37 each
Wegmans Solid White Albacore Tuna (6 oz. in water) - $.99
Pillsbury Cake Mix (18.25-18.9 oz.) - $.88
Pepperidge Farm Milano Cookies (7.2-7.75 oz.) - $1.99
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon
Final Price: $.99
Ziti, Spaghetti, or Thin Spaghetti (16 oz.) - $.69
Wegmans Canned Vegetables (14.5-15.25 oz can) Cream Style Corn, Whole Kernel Corn, French Style Green Beans, or Cut Green Beans - $.39
Wegmans Tomato Sauce, Puree, or Crushed Tomatoes (28-29 oz.) - $.69
Wegmans Macaroni and Cheese Dinner (6-7.25 oz.) - $.33
Coca-Cola (2 liter) - $.99 (Limit 9)

Refrigerated -
Wegmans Gallon Milk - $1.99-$2.24
Pillsbury Cinnamon, Danish, or Crescent Rolls (8-13.9 oz.) - $1.99
Use various coupons here, here, and here and from 10/03 GM insert
Final Price: as low as $1.50 each
Pillsbury Grands Biscuits - $1.79
Buy 2 and use $.30/2 coupon from 8/08 SS insert or printable (doubled)
Final Price: $1.49 each
Pillsbury Ready-to-Bake Cookies (14-16.5 oz.) or Sweet Moments Brownies (5.6-6.10 oz.) - $2.49
Use $1.50/1 Sweet Moments coupon or $1.00/1 Sweet Moments coupons here, here ,or here or $.75/1 from the 10/17 SS insert
Final Price: as low as $.99
Coffee-mate Flavored Creamer (16 fl. oz.) - $1.99
Use $.55/1 coupon from 11/14 RP insert or $.75/1 printable coupon or $1.50/1 printable coupon
Final Price: $.49-$1.44

Frozen:
Wegmans Pierogis (16 oz.) - $1.69
Jimmy Dean Breakfast  Sandwiches (13.6-18.4 oz.) - $3.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 10/31 RP insert
Final Price: $2.99
Healthy Choice Select Entrees (8.5-9 oz.) - $1.69
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 10/17 SS insert or printable
Final Price: $1.19 each
Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables (12-16 oz.) - $1.19-$1.49
Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 11/14 SS insert or use $.50/1 Facebook coupon here (doubled)
Final Price: as low as $.19 each

Meat:
Wegmans Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (Club Pack - 5 lbs. or more) - $1.99/lb.
Wegmans 90% Lean Fresh Ground Beef (Club Pack - 6 lbs. or more) - $1.99/lb.

Paper/Toiletries/Cleaning -
Wegmans Facial Tissue (65-160 ct. cube or flat) – $.79
Wegmans 8 pk. Paper Towels or 12 pk. Bath Tissue – $4.99
Pantene Shampoo or Conditioner - $2.99
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 8/29 or 9/26 P&G insert
Final Price: $2.49 each
Edge or Skintimate Shave Gel (7 oz.) - $1.50
Buy 2 Edge and use BOGO printable coupon
Final Price: $.75 each
Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick (1.8-2 oz., selected) - $.99
Speed Stick (3-3.25 oz.) or Lady Speed Stick (2.3 oz.) - $1.50
Use $1.00/2 or $.50/1 from 10/03 SS insert
Final Price: $.50-$1.00
Dynamo 2X Laundry Detergent (50 fl. oz.) - $1.99
Use $.50/1 (doubled) or $1.00/2 coupon found in some 8/15 or 10/3 SS inserts
Final Price: $.99-$1.49
Stayfree Maxi Pads (16-24 ct., excludes Adv Pro and Dri Max) - $1.99
Use $.50/1 from 9/26 RP insert (doubled)
Final Price: $.99
V05 Shampoo or Conditioner (15 fl. oz.) - $.69
Irish Spring Deodorant Soap Bar, Original (6.4 oz.) or Lever 200 Soap Bars, Refreshing, Original - $.99
Crest Premium Toothpaste (6.2 oz.) - $1.99
Use $.75/1 from 10/10 PG insert or $.50/1 from 9/26 PG insert (doubled0
Final Price: $.99-$1.24
Colgate 360 Toothbrushes (Special Pack 2 pk.) - $2.49
Use $1.00/1 coupon here or here
Final Price: $1.49
Johnson's Baby Wash - $1.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 9/12 RP insert $3.00/3 printable
Final Price: $.99
Electrasol Finish Gelpacs or Powerball Tabs - $2.99
Use $.50/1 printable coupon here or here (doubled)
Final price: $1.99
Suave Body Wash (12 fl. oz.) - $1.50
Use $.50/1 coupon from 11/14 RP insert
Final Price: $.50
Arm and Hammer Kid's Spinbrush - $3.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 12/05 SS insert
Final Price: $2.99
Glade Candles (4 oz.) and Scented Oil Candles and Refills - $2.50
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupons from 12/05 SS insert, from various magazines, or here
Final Price: $2.00 each

My Wegmans deals are based on the Sterling/Leesburg, VA sales ad and deals that I find in the Leesburg store.

With thanks to the coupon database at Mrs. Moneysaver for help in compiling this.

My store doubles coupons up to $.50, but Wegmans' coupon policies vary by store. Find the policy at your store here.

This post is part of BeCentsAble's Grocery Gathering, Money Saving Mom's Store Deals, and is featured at The Deal Scoop.

This post contains affiliate links, which help support this site.

Daily Deal

Thanks to Daily Deal Mojo for the best daily deals each Tuesday and Thursday.

*Sorry, I know it's a little late in the day to post the daily deal, but I'm running around like crazy trying to get ready for our trip!

My favorite deal today is a Groupon deal for wine from Wine.com & Wine Insiders
This deal is for wine – just in time for the holidays! With Wine.com you get half off on wine ($30, get $60 value). And save 67% on wine with Wine Insiders ($25 get $75 value). City to find the deal: Miami and Long Island.

Find more great daily deals for today at Daily Deal Mojo.

Wegmans Deals: 12/19-12/25

New Deals:

Wegmans California Navel Oranges (4 lb. bag) - $3.49
Wegmans Brown Sugar Cured Bone-In Half Hams - $2.39/lb.

Arm and Hammer Kid's Spinbrush - $3.99 (Thanks, Clare)
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 12/05 SS insert
Final Price: $2.99

Glade Candles (4 oz.) and Scented Oil Candles and Refills - $2.50 (Thanks, Clare)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupons from 12/05 SS insert, from various magazines, or here
Final Price: $2.00 each

Ongoing Deals:

Produce -
Winter Squash - $.99/lb.
Wegmans US #1 3lb. Bagged Apples - $.2.49
US #1 NY State Apple Tote - $.89/lb.
Wegmans US #1 White Potatoes (5 lb. bag) - $1.99

Seasonal Baking Deals (all through 01/01) -
McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract - $2.99-$3.99
Use $.25/1 (doubled) or $1.00/2 from 11/07 RP insert
Final Price: $2.49-$3.49 each
Wegmans Light Brown, Dark Brown, or Confectioners' Sugar (2 lb.) - $1.19 (Limit 2 Bags)
Wegmans Granulated Sugar (5 lbs.) - $1.99 (Limit 2 Bags)
Betty Crocker Cookie Mixes - $1.69
Use $.40/1 coupon from 11/14 GM insert or here, here, or here
Final Price: $.89
Wegmans All Purpose Flour (5 lbs.) - $.99 (Limit 2)
Nestle Tollhouse Morsels (10-12 oz.) - $1.69 (through 01/08)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Final Price: $1.19 each

Grocery -
Nabisco Ritz, Triscuit, and Wheat Thins - $1.99-$2.00 (through 01/01)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 11/14 SS insert
Final Price: $1.49-$1.50
Campbell's Select Harvest Soups - $.99
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Final Price: $.49 each
Swanson Broth (14.5 oz. cans) - $.60 (through 01/01)
Buy 5 and use $.50/5 from from 11/17 SS insert (doubled)
Final Price: $.40 each
Uncle Ben's Ready Rice (8.3-8.8 oz., all varieties) - $1.50
Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 9/12 RP insert
Final price: $1.37 each
Wegmans Solid White Albacore Tuna (6 oz. in water) - $.99
Pillsbury Cake Mix (18.25-18.9 oz.) - $.88
Pepperidge Farm Milano Cookies (7.2-7.75 oz.) - $1.99
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon
Final Price: $.99
Ziti, Spaghetti, or Thin Spaghetti (16 oz.) - $.69
Wegmans Canned Vegetables (14.5-15.25 oz can) Cream Style Corn, Whole Kernel Corn, French Style Green Beans, or Cut Green Beans - $.39
Wegmans Tomato Sauce, Puree, or Crushed Tomatoes (28-29 oz.) - $.69
Wegmans Macaroni and Cheese Dinner (6-7.25 oz.) - $.33
Coca-Cola (2 liter) - $.99 (Limit 9)

Refrigerated -
Wegmans Gallon Milk - $1.99-$2.24
Pillsbury Cinnamon, Danish, or Crescent Rolls (8-13.9 oz.) - $1.99
Use various coupons here, here, and here and from 10/03 GM insert
Final Price: as low as $1.50 each
Pillsbury Grands Biscuits - $1.79
Buy 2 and use $.30/2 coupon from 8/08 SS insert or printable (doubled)
Final Price: $1.49 each
Pillsbury Ready-to-Bake Cookies (14-16.5 oz.) or Sweet Moments Brownies (5.6-6.10 oz.) - $2.49
Use $1.50/1 Sweet Moments coupon or $1.00/1 Sweet Moments coupons here, here ,or here or $.75/1 from the 10/17 SS insert
Final Price: as low as $.99
Coffee-mate Flavored Creamer (16 fl. oz.) - $1.99
Use $.55/1 coupon from 11/14 RP insert or $.75/1 printable coupon or $1.50/1 printable coupon
Final Price: $.49-$1.44

Frozen:
Wegmans Pierogis (16 oz.) - $1.69
Jimmy Dean Breakfast  Sandwiches (13.6-18.4 oz.) - $3.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 10/31 RP insert
Final Price: $2.99
Healthy Choice Select Entrees (8.5-9 oz.) - $1.69
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 10/17 SS insert or printable
Final Price: $1.19 each
Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables (12-16 oz.) - $1.19-$1.49

Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 11/14 SS insert or use $.50/1 Facebook coupon here (doubled)
Final Price: as low as $.19 each

Meat:
Wegmans Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (Club Pack - 5 lbs. or more) - $1.99/lb.
Wegmans 90% Lean Fresh Ground Beef (Club Pack - 6 lbs. or more) - $1.99/lb.

Paper/Toiletries/Cleaning -
Wegmans Facial Tissue (65-160 ct. cube or flat) – $.79
Wegmans 8 pk. Paper Towels or 12 pk. Bath Tissue – $4.99
Pantene Shampoo or Conditioner - $2.99
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 8/29 or 9/26 P&G insert
Final Price: $2.49 each
Edge or Skintimate Shave Gel (7 oz.) - $1.50
Buy 2 Edge and use BOGO printable coupon
Final Price: $.75 each
Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick (1.8-2 oz., selected) - $.99
Speed Stick (3-3.25 oz.) or Lady Speed Stick (2.3 oz.) - $1.50
Use $1.00/2 or $.50/1 from 10/03 SS insert
Final Price: $.50-$1.00
Dynamo 2X Laundry Detergent (50 fl. oz.) - $1.99
Use $.50/1 (doubled) or $1.00/2 coupon found in some 8/15 or 10/3 SS inserts
Final Price: $.99-$1.49
Stayfree Maxi Pads (16-24 ct., excludes Adv Pro and Dri Max) - $1.99
Use $.50/1 from 9/26 RP insert (doubled)
Final Price: $.99
V05 Shampoo or Conditioner (15 fl. oz.) - $.69
Irish Spring Deodorant Soap Bar, Original (6.4 oz.) or Lever 200 Soap Bars, Refreshing, Original - $.99
Crest Premium Toothpaste (6.2 oz.) - $1.99
Use $.75/1 from 10/10 PG insert or $.50/1 from 9/26 PG insert (doubled0
Final Price: $.99-$1.24
Colgate 360 Toothbrushes (Special Pack 2 pk.) - $2.49
Use $1.00/1 coupon here or here
Final Price: $1.49
Johnson's Baby Wash - $1.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 9/12 RP insert $3.00/3 printable
Final Price: $.99
Electrasol Finish Gelpacs or Powerball Tabs - $2.99
Use $.50/1 printable coupon here or here (doubled)
Final price: $1.99
Suave Body Wash (12 fl. oz.) - $1.50
Use $.50/1 coupon from 11/14 RP insert
Final Price: $.50

My Wegmans deals are based on the Sterling/Leesburg, VA sales ad and deals that I find in the Leesburg store.

With thanks to the coupon database at Mrs. Moneysaver for help in compiling this.

My store doubles coupons up to $.50, but Wegmans' coupon policies vary by store. Find the policy at your store here.

This post is part of BeCentsAble's Grocery Gathering, Money Saving Mom's Store Deals, and is featured at The Deal Scoop.

This post contains affiliate links, which help support this site.

Daily Deal

Thanks to Daily Deal Mojo for the best daily deals each Tuesday and Thursday.

My favorite deal today is from Eversave.

Organic, Fair-Trade Children’s Clothing from ScoutCollection:

Use Promo Code TOYS to get a $50 voucher for organic, fair-trade children’s clothing at ScoutCollection for only $22! Shipping is free – love that! Plus, Eversave is donating 5% of all sales today to Toys for Tots. This Save and Promo Code is good through Saturday.

Check out more great deals from the daily deal sites here.

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year . . .

And one of the busiest!  And so, a little earlier than I anticipated, I am stepping back from blogging for an extended, restful Christmas break, though January 2. 

In addition to regular Christmas preparations, we're preparing to take our first long car trip with baby Gem, to visit my parents for Christmas.  We're leaving a week from today, and I am starting to feel a bit overwhelmed at the thought of all the packing!

I will still be posting some deals, but I won't be writing any substantive posts until after New Year's.  My focus is shifting from Christmas shopping and deals to preparing for the real celebration of this wondrous season.

I am so looking forward to celebrating with my husband and children, especially since the girls can understand and anticipate so much now; and with my parents and brothers and sisters, whom I don't see enough.

I hope all of you have a most blessed Christmas too!

It was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, God Bless Us, Every One!                                      -- Charles Dickens

Best Bloom Deals: 12/15-12/28

Thanks to Sarah at Capitally Frugal for the best Bloom deals each week.

1) This Bloom Ad will last through 12/28, so there will be no deals next week.

2) Bloom is offering Super Double Coupons (doubling up to $1.99) on 12/18 & 12/22
3) * will denote coupons that will double everyday, **will denote coupons that will double on 12/18 & 12/22
Birds Eye Steamfresh Vegetables or Blends - B1G1
Use $0.50/2*, found in 12/12 SS
$0.84/ea, when you buy 2

Swanson Broths - 5/$4
Use $0.50/5*, found in 11/7 SS
$0.60/ea, when you buy 5
French's French Fried Onions - $2.99
Use $0.75/1*, found in 12/12 SS
$1.49 after coupon

Nestle Morsels - $2.00
Use $1.25/3**, found in 11/14 RP
$1.16/ea, when you buy 3

International Delight Coffee Creamer - $1.67
Use $0.55/1*, found in 11/7 SS
$0.57 after coupon

See the complete list of deals at Bloom here.

Wegmans Deals: 12/12-12/18

New Deals:

Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables (12-16 oz.) - $1.19-$1.49
Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 11/14 SS insert or use $.50/1 Facebook coupon here (doubled)
Final Price: as low as $.19 each

Wegmans Roasting Chicken - $.79/lb.
Ongoing Deals:

Produce -
Winter Squash - $.99/lb.
Wegmans US #1 3lb. Bagged Apples - $.2.49
US #1 NY State Apple Tote - $.89/lb.
Wegmans US #1 White Potatoes (5 lb. bag) - $1.99
Wegmans California Navel Oranges (4 lb. bag) - $3.99

Seasonal Baking Deals -
McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract - $2.99-$3.99 (through 01/01)
Use $.25/1 (doubled) or $1.00/2 from 11/07 RP insert
Final Price: $2.49-$3.49 each
Wegmans Light Brown, Dark Brown, or Confectioners' Sugar (2 lb.) - $1.19 (Limit 2 Bags)
Wegmans Granulated Sugar (5 lbs.) - $1.99 (Limit 2 Bags)
Betty Crocker Cookie Mixes - $1.69
Use $.40/1 coupon from 11/14 GM insert or here, here, or here
Final Price: $.89
Wegmans All Purpose Flour (5 lbs.) - $.99 (Limit 2)
Nestle Tollhouse Morsels (10-12 oz.) - $1.69 (through 01/08)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Final Price: $1.19 each

Grocery -
Nabisco Ritz, Triscuit, and Wheat Thins - $1.99-$2.00 (through 01/01)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 11/14 SS insert
Final Price: $1.49-$1.50
Campbell's Select Harvest Soups - $.99
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Final Price: $.49 each
Swanson Broth (14.5 oz. cans) - $.60 (through 01/01)
Buy 5 and use $.50/5 from from 11/17 SS insert (doubled)
Final Price: $.40 each
Uncle Ben's Ready Rice (8.3-8.8 oz., all varieties) - $1.50
Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 9/12 RP insert
Final price: $1.37 each
Wegmans Solid White Albacore Tuna (6 oz. in water) - $.99
Pillsbury Cake Mix (18.25-18.9 oz.) - $.88
Pepperidge Farm Milano Cookies (7.2-7.75 oz.) - $1.99
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon
Final Price: $.99
Ziti, Spaghetti, or Thin Spaghetti (16 oz.) - $.69
Wegmans Canned Vegetables (14.5-15.25 oz can) Cream Style Corn, Whole Kernel Corn, French Style Green Beans, or Cut Green Beans - $.39
Wegmans Tomato Sauce, Puree, or Crushed Tomatoes (28-29 oz.) - $.69
Wegmans Macaroni and Cheese Dinner (6-7.25 oz.) - $.33
Coca-Cola (2 liter) - $.99 (Limit 9)

Refrigerated -
Wegmans Gallon Milk - $1.99-$2.24
Pillsbury Cinnamon, Danish, or Crescent Rolls (8-13.9 oz.) - $1.99
Use various coupons here, here, and here and from 10/03 GM insert
Final Price: as low as $1.50 each
Pillsbury Grands Biscuits - $1.79
Buy 2 and use $.30/2 coupon from 8/08 SS insert or printable (doubled)
Final Price: $1.49 each
Pillsbury Ready-to-Bake Cookies (14-16.5 oz.) or Sweet Moments Brownies (5.6-6.10 oz.) - $2.49
Use $1.50/1 Sweet Moments coupon or $1.00/1 Sweet Moments coupons here, here ,or here or $.75/1 from the 10/17 SS insert
Final Price: as low as $.99
Coffee-mate Flavored Creamer (16 fl. oz.) - $1.99
Use $.55/1 coupon from 11/14 RP insert or $.75/1 printable coupon or $1.50/1 printable coupon
Final Price: $.49-$1.44

Frozen:
Wegmans Pierogis (16 oz.) - $1.69
Jimmy Dean Breakfast  Sandwiches (13.6-18.4 oz.) - $3.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 10/31 RP insert
Final Price: $2.99
Healthy Choice Select Entrees (8.5-9 oz.) - $1.69
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 10/17 SS insert or printable
Final Price: $1.19 each
Meat:
Wegmans Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (Club Pack - 5 lbs. or more) - $1.99/lb.
Wegmans 90% Lean Fresh Ground Beef (Club Pack - 6 lbs. or more) - $1.99/lb.
Wegmans Brown Sugar Cured Bone-In Half Hams - $2.39/lb.

Paper/Toiletries/Cleaning -
Wegmans Facial Tissue (65-160 ct. cube or flat) – $.79
Wegmans 8 pk. Paper Towels or 12 pk. Bath Tissue – $4.99
Pantene Shampoo or Conditioner - $2.99
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 8/29 or 9/26 P&G insert
Final Price: $2.49 each
Edge or Skintimate Shave Gel (7 oz.) - $1.50
Buy 2 Edge and use BOGO printable coupon
Final Price: $.75 each
Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick (1.8-2 oz., selected) - $.99
Speed Stick (3-3.25 oz.) or Lady Speed Stick (2.3 oz.) - $1.50
Use $1.00/2 or $.50/1 from 10/03 SS insert
Final Price: $.50-$1.00
Dynamo 2X Laundry Detergent (50 fl. oz.) - $1.99
Use $.50/1 (doubled) or $1.00/2 coupon found in some 8/15 or 10/3 SS inserts
Final Price: $.99-$1.49
Stayfree Maxi Pads (16-24 ct., excludes Adv Pro and Dri Max) - $1.99
Use $.50/1 from 9/26 RP insert (doubled)
Final Price: $.99
V05 Shampoo or Conditioner (15 fl. oz.) - $.69
Irish Spring Deodorant Soap Bar, Original (6.4 oz.) or Lever 200 Soap Bars, Refreshing, Original - $.99
Crest Premium Toothpaste (6.2 oz.) - $1.99
Use $.75/1 from 10/10 PG insert or $.50/1 from 9/26 PG insert (doubled0
Final Price: $.99-$1.24
Colgate 360 Toothbrushes (Special Pack 2 pk.) - $2.49
Use $1.00/1 coupon here or here
Final Price: $1.49
Johnson's Baby Wash - $1.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 9/12 RP insert $3.00/3 printable
Final Price: $.99
Electrasol Finish Gelpacs or Powerball Tabs - $2.99
Use $.50/1 printable coupon here or here (doubled)
Final price: $1.99
Suave Body Wash (12 fl. oz.) - $1.50
Use $.50/1 coupon from 11/14 RP insert
Final Price: $.50

My Wegmans deals are based on the Sterling/Leesburg, VA sales ad and deals that I find in the Leesburg store.

With thanks to the coupon database at Mrs. Moneysaver for help in compiling this.

My store doubles coupons up to $.50, but Wegmans' coupon policies vary by store. Find the policy at your store here.

This post is part of BeCentsAble's Grocery Gathering, Money Saving Mom's Store Deals, and is featured at The Deal Scoop.

This post contains affiliate links, which help support this site.

Top Daily Deals

Thanks to Daily Deal Mojo for the top daily deals every Tuesday and Thursday!

My favorite deal today is again from Jasmere:

High-quality Eco-friendly toys from Natura Toys:

Not only are the toys from Natura Toys developmentally appropriate, they’re also safe and eco-friendly. Right now, you get a $30 voucher for only $12! And, the more people who buy, the lower the price! It looks like they have a lot of sales going on right now, too! Shipping cannot be paid for via voucher and is a flat $8.50 per order. This is the bonus deal of the day.

Check out Daily Deal Mojo for the rest of the deals from the daily deal sites!

Best CVS Deals: 12/12-12/18

Thanks to Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living for the best CVS deals each week. 

All Revlon Cosmetics (get $4 ECBs wyb $10) Limit 1

$1 October Marie Claire Magazine
$1 December Glamour Magazine
= varies

Deal Idea
Buy 3 Revlon Nail for $12
Use 3 $1 coupons
= $1.67 after ECBs

Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste – 4.2 oz, Scope Outlast -4 oz., Rinse – 250 mL or Oral-B Floss – 27 to 55 yds. $2.99 (get $2 ECBs) Limit 2
$.75 P&G 11/28
$.75 P&G 11/28
= $.24 after ECBs

Duracell Batteries including AAA/AA – 10 pk, C/D – 4 pk, or 9V – 2 pk $5.99 AAA/AA – 4 pk, C/ D – 2 pk or 9V – 1pk $2.99 (get $5 ECBs wyb $15) Limit 1
$1.50 RP 11/14
$1.50 RP 12/12
= varies

Deal Idea
Buy 6 packs at $2.99
Use 6 $1.50 coupons
= $.66 a pack after ECBs

See the complete list of deals here.

The batteries are a really good deal this week if you need batteries and/or have several of the RP coupons.  You can also get a good deal on the holiday Glade air freshener items and candles.

Saving Money at Christmas

This weekend, I was asked to give a little presentation to my church moms' group about saving money at Christmas.  Of  course, it's getting to the point when most people are finishing their shopping, but I did think of a few tips that still seemed useful. 

Here are the six tips I shared:

- Stick to a budget - Obviously, everyone's budget for gifts will be different and your own budget might be different for different recipients.  However, the important thing is to set aside a certain amount of money for each gift and to stick as closely as you can to that amount.  Also, that amount may be lower than you think.  To get really specific - for gifts for people not in my immediate family, my budget is often $15.  I find that with savvy shopping, you can get surprisingly nice gifts for that amount.  You can almost always find a book, CD, DVD, clothing item, or toy for $15 or under.  Let go of the pressure to spend a certain amount; the important thing is that you're thinking of the recipient.

- Track prices for items you plan to buy - Around the holidays, practically everything is on sale or has some kind of promotion.  However, "regular prices" are sometimes artificially marked up, and it's hard to know if you're really getting a good deal.  Also, sometimes it's hard to know whether to jump on a sale or wait for a better one (although this close to Christmas you should probably just jump on it!).  So try to get an idea of the base price of items (especially larger ones) for which you're in the market.  A great site that I just became aware of is CamelCamelCamel.  This site tracks prices for specific items on Amazon over the past weeks or months, so that you can get an idea of for how low it has sold.  You can also sign up for alerts for when a specific item reaches your target price.  Amazon generally has competitive prices for most items, so looking at their prices will give you an idea of what to expect at other retailers as well.

- Try not to pay for shipping/look for coupon codes - When buying online, my goal is to never pay for shipping.  I don't always succeed, but around Christmas you can probably avoid paying shipping at least 4 out of 5 times.  Here are 5 ways to avoid paying for shipping:
1) First of all, always look for online coupon codes at sites like RetailMeNot and MyCoupons.  Even if you don't find a free shipping code, you might find a 10% or 15% off that is roughly equivalent to free shipping. 
2) Choose retailers like Amazon that have free shipping options every day.  (Sign up for Amazon Mom if you haven't already to get a free temporary membership in Amazon Prime.) 
3) Sign up for the email newsletter of companies from which you plan to purchase.  You'll be alerted to promotions and sales, such as free shipping days. 
4) Combine orders to reach minimum order for free shipping - combine your orders into one or combine with a friend.
5) Time your orders to certain days - Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Free Shipping Day (Dec. 17)

- Shop online through cashback sites - When shopping online, you're missing out free money if you don't shop through cashback sites like Ebates and ShopatHome.  These sites, which are paid for by advertising, give you a small percentage of cash back if you click through their sites to get to the online retailer that you're using.  You receive a check from the sites once your reach a certain amount of cash back.  You can get cash back from most major online stores, including Target, Walmart, many clothing stores, and photo sites like Snapfish and Shutterfly.  Since you don't get the cash right away, I don't think of the cash back as a discount on my purchase; instead it's a like a teeny bit of free extra money that I get periodically.  Starbucks money!

- Stock up for the rest of the year - The holidays bring the best discounts on pretty much everything - from toys to appliances to electronics.  So if you have a big non-Christmas purchase that you were planning to make, now is a great time to do it. (Of course, that can be hard with all the holiday expenses, so it does take some planning ahead.)  Also, there may be smaller items that are on great discounts this time of year that you can stock up on.  For instance, most grocery stores have their best deals on baking items this time of year ($.99 flour at Wegmans), so I try to stock up for at least the next six months.  I also got a great deal on Black Friday on some expensive cloth diapers.

- Plan ahead for after Christmas clearance - Some of the items that I stock up on during after Christmas clearance sales are wrapping paper and supplies, Christmas decor items, stocking stuffers, winter clothing and accessories, birthday and next Christmas gifts, toys.  In my opinion, shopping the day after Christmas is overrated; I prefer to relax anyway.  Instead, I wait until clearance is at least 75% off, unless I am looking for something very specific.  There is so much Christmas merchandise out there that there is usually a pretty good selection, at least of fairly generic items, at 75% off.

What are your best tips for saving on Christmas shopping?

Frugal Gift Idea: Ornament Craft Kits

There are a number of extended family members, friends, and teachers in our lives who I would like to remember at Christmastime, but simply don't have the money to gift with individual presents.  Luckily, I now have children old enough to start making gifts for people, which automatically adds meaning to something simple.

My oldest, GiGi (age 4), has really gotten into arts and crafts in the past year, and LuLu (2) wants to do everything her big sister does.  That, and a Christmas catalogue from Oriental Trading Company made me hit on the perfect idea for little gifts - Christmas ornament kits!  Oriental Trading has dozens of simple craft kits for very inexpensive prices.  Since the kits seem to be designed especially for churches and schools, most make at least 12 crafts, often for under $5 for the entire kit!  I also figured that ornaments were the perfect gift for young children to create, because even if they're not perfect, most people don't mind a homemade Christmas ornament.  Having popsicle stick ornaments on the tree is traditional!

We did the first kit a couple of days ago, foam gingerbread man ornaments (similar to this; I couldn't find the exact kit).  The kit had peel and stick foam embellishments for the foam ornaments, which even my two year old could do herself.  They had such a blast creating the ornaments, and my four year old even added initials designating them for particular recipients. 

The other two kits I ordered were these Christmas trees and some fuzzy woodland animals to color.  I'm so pleased so far with my idea - it's been both a fun seasonal activity for the girls and a way for them to learn about giving, as well as a very inexpensive, yet meaningful gift for special people in our lives.

Check out more money saving ideas at Frugal Fridays.

Daily Deal Mojo!

I am very excited to announce a new addition to deals featured here at Frugally Blonde.  Every Tuesday and Thursday, I will now be providing highlights of the best national deals from all the daily deal sites, courtesy of Stephanie from Daily Deal Mojo.  You'll be able to see my favorite deals here, and then you can head over to Daily Deal Mojo for even more great deals from the daily deal sites!

Today I'm excited about this great deal from Jasmere:

Oranges or Grapefruits (or both!) from The Orange Shop
For $18, get about 20 pounds of juicy oranges or grapefuits (or half of each) from The Orange Shop. That’s less than $1 per pound – what a way to bring the sunshine home! (And the more people who buy, the cheaper the deal!). Shipping is a flat $11.95 per set. Unfortunately, The Orange Shop cannot ship to CA, TX (BUMMER for me!), AZ, LA or NV because of interstate citrus-shipping laws (crazy!). Jasmere deals only last for 24 hours, so hurry!
How to get the deal – just click on the links above before time runs out!

See more national deals from all the daily deal sites over at Daily Deal Mojo!

Local Deal: $49 for Dental Exam and Cleaning in Ashburn

When I was growing up, we didn't have dental insurance.  So even though my family was not poor by any means, it still was very difficult to pay for dental visits every six months for all my family members.  So I thought that today's Washington DC Groupon was a really great deal for locals who might not have dental insurance. 

Today pay $189 for Zoom! Teeth-Whitening Treatment ($600 Value) or $49 for Dental Exam, X-Rays, and Cleaning ($250 Value) at Ashburn Dental Care in Ashburn.

To get this deal, go to Groupon and choose Washington DC as the location.

This post contains a referral link, which helps support this site.

Best Bloom Deals: 12/8-12/14

Thanks to Sarah at Capitally Frugal for the best Bloom deals each week.

Comstock Cherry or Apple Pie Filling - B1G1

Use $0.55/2*, found in 11/7 SS
$0.84 each when you buy 2

Betty Crocker Cake Mix - B1G1
Use (2) $0.40/1*, found here or in 12/5 GM
$0.29 each when you buy 2

Progresso Classic Soups - $1.00
Use $1.00/4, found in 11/14 GM, 11/21 SS, 12/5 GM
$0.75 each when you buy 4
Ragu Pasta Sauce - $1.67
Use "Buy 2 Ragu, Get 1 Pasta Free," found in 11/14 RP
$3.34 for 2 Ragu and 1 Pasta
 
See complete list of deals at Bloom here.

Deal Roundup

A few holiday deals for your Wednesday . . .

Don't have your Christmas cards yet?  Check out Vistaprint's sweet offer today for 75% off cards plus free shipping!

Note that the free shipping is for the 14-day shipping option, but the other shipping speeds are discounted as well.  If you want the free 14-day shipping, you must order by Dec. 10 for Christmas delivery.  Vistaprint has good deal every day, but the shipping normally brings the cost up a bit.  So this deal is worth jumping on if you're in the market for cards.

Money Saving Mom has the lowdown on another sweet holiday card offer from SeeHere.

Giant has four Dollar Doublers in the ad this week, to double four dollar coupons.  Laura has a few coupon matchups here.

Today only on the daily deal site Eversave, you can get $5 off any save with promo code GIFT!  In the DC area, you can get a dozen gourmet cupcakes (with free delivery) for $5 or a luxury ride to any of the metropolitan airports for just $20 with the coupon code!  In any area, with the coupon code you can get $30 worth of merchandise from sugar-plum.com for just $10.  If you're signing up for a new Eversave account, you get $2 of credit, potentially making the cupcake deal as low as $3!  Sweet!


And finally, a few free shipping deals I've come across:
- Disney Store - with code TOYMANIA, through today only (no minimum; order must include a toy)
- Christianbook.com - with code 338637 (minimum $35 order - check out their bargain section!)
- LandsEnd - sign up for their email list and you'll get a free shipping offer practically every day - not kidding
- FisherPrice - through Dec. 10 (no minimum - check out their sale section)
- Borders.com - through Dec. 12 (no minimum)

What other great holiday deals are out there this week?

This post contains affliliate and referral links, which help support this site.

Wegmans Deals: 12/05-12/11

New Deals:

Wegmans Brown Sugar Cured Bone-In Half Hams - $2.39/lb.

Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables (12-16 oz.) - $1.19-$1.49 (Thanks to commenter for heads up)
Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 11/14 SS insert
Final Price: as low as $.86 each
Healthy Choice Select Entrees (8.5-9 oz.) - $1.69
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 10/17 SS insert or printable
Final Price: $1.19 each

Ongoing Deals:

Produce -
Winter Squash - $.99/lb.
Wegmans US #1 3lb. Bagged Apples - $.2.49
US #1 NY State Apple Tote - $.89/lb.
Wegmans US #1 White Potatoes (5 lb. bag) - $1.99
Wegmans California Navel Oranges (4 lb. bag) - $3.99

Seasonal Baking Deals -
McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract - $2.99-$3.99 (through 01/01)
Use $.25/1 (doubled) or $1.00/2 from 11/07 RP insert
Final Price: $2.49-$3.49 each
Wegmans Light Brown, Dark Brown, or Confectioners' Sugar (2 lb.) - $1.19 (Limit 2 Bags)
Wegmans Granulated Sugar (5 lbs.) - $1.99 (Limit 2 Bags)
Betty Crocker Cookie Mixes - $1.69
Use $.40/1 coupon from 11/14 GM insert or here, here, or here
Final Price: $.89
Wegmans All Purpose Flour (5 lbs.) - $.99 (Limit 2)
Nestle Tollhouse Morsels (10-12 oz.) - $1.69 (through 01/08)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Final Price: $1.19 each

Grocery -
Kellogg's Fiber Plus Cereal - $1.99 (through 12/11)
Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 11/14 RP insert or printable
Final Price: $1.66 each
Nabisco Ritz, Triscuit, and Wheat Thins - $1.99-$2.00 (through 01/01)
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 11/14 SS insert
Final Price: $1.49-$1.50
Campbell's Select Harvest Soups - $.99
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Final Price: $.49 each
Swanson Broth (14.5 oz. cans) - $.60 (through 01/01)
Buy 5 and use $.50/5 from from 11/17 SS insert (doubled)
Final Price: $.40 each
Uncle Ben's Ready Rice (8.3-8.8 oz., all varieties) - $1.50
Buy 3 and use $1.00/3 coupon from 9/12 RP insert
Final price: $1.37 each
Wegmans Solid White Albacore Tuna (6 oz. in water) - $.99
Pillsbury Cake Mix (18.25-18.9 oz.) - $.88
Pepperidge Farm Milano Cookies (7.2-7.75 oz.) - $1.99
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon
Final Price: $.99
Ziti, Spaghetti, or Thin Spaghetti (16 oz.) - $.69
Wegmans Canned Vegetables (14.5-15.25 oz can) Cream Style Corn, Whole Kernel Corn, French Style Green Beans, or Cut Green Beans - $.39
Wegmans Tomato Sauce, Puree, or Crushed Tomatoes (28-29 oz.) - $.69
Wegmans Macaroni and Cheese Dinner (6-7.25 oz.) - $.33
Coca-Cola (2 liter) - $.99 (Limit 9)
Refrigerated -
Wegmans Gallon Milk - $1.99-$2.24
Pillsbury Cinnamon, Danish, or Crescent Rolls (8-13.9 oz.) - $1.99
Use various coupons here, here, and here and from 10/03 GM insert
Final Price: as low as $1.50 each
Pillsbury Grands Biscuits - $1.79
Buy 2 and use $.30/2 coupon from 8/08 SS insert or printable (doubled)
Final Price: $1.49 each
Pillsbury Ready-to-Bake Cookies (14-16.5 oz.) or Sweet Moments Brownies (5.6-6.10 oz.) - $2.49
Use $1.50/1 Sweet Moments coupon or $1.00/1 Sweet Moments coupons here, here ,or here or $.75/1 from the 10/17 SS insert
Final Price: as low as $.99
Coffee-mate Flavored Creamer (16 fl. oz.) - $1.99
Use $.55/1 coupon from 11/14 RP insert or $.75/1 printable coupon or $1.50/1 printable coupon
Final Price: $.49-$1.44

Frozen:
Wegmans Pierogis (16 oz.) - $1.69
Jimmy Dean Breakfast  Sandwiches (13.6-18.4 oz.) - $3.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 10/31 RP insert
Final Price: $2.99
Sara Lee 9" Oven Fresh Pies (37 oz. Apple, Dutch Apple, Raspberry, or Pumpkin) - $2.99
Use $.75/1 Sara Lee frozen dessert from 11/7 RP insert
Final Price: $2.24

Meat:
Wegmans Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (Club Pack - 5 lbs. or more) - $1.99/lb.
Wegmans 90% Lean Fresh Ground Beef (Club Pack - 6 lbs. or more) - $1.99/lb.

Paper/Toiletries/Cleaning -
Wegmans Facial Tissue (65-160 ct. cube or flat) – $.79
Wegmans 8 pk. Paper Towels or 12 pk. Bath Tissue – $4.99
Pantene Shampoo or Conditioner - $2.99
Buy 2 and use $1.00/2 coupon from 8/29 or 9/26 P&G insert
Final Price: $2.49 each
Edge or Skintimate Shave Gel (7 oz.) - $1.50
Buy 2 Edge and use BOGO printable coupon
Final Price: $.75 each
Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick (1.8-2 oz., selected) - $.99
Speed Stick (3-3.25 oz.) or Lady Speed Stick (2.3 oz.) - $1.50
Use $1.00/2 or $.50/1 from 10/03 SS insert
Final Price: $.50-$1.00
Dynamo 2X Laundry Detergent (50 fl. oz.) - $1.99
Use $.50/1 (doubled) or $1.00/2 coupon found in some 8/15 or 10/3 SS inserts
Final Price: $.99-$1.49
Stayfree Maxi Pads (16-24 ct., excludes Adv Pro and Dri Max) - $1.99
Use $.50/1 from 9/26 RP insert (doubled)
Final Price: $.99
V05 Shampoo or Conditioner (15 fl. oz.) - $.69
Irish Spring Deodorant Soap Bar, Original (6.4 oz.) or Lever 200 Soap Bars, Refreshing, Original - $.99
Crest Premium Toothpaste (6.2 oz.) - $1.99
Use $.75/1 from 10/10 PG insert or $.50/1 from 9/26 PG insert (doubled0
Final Price: $.99-$1.24
Colgate 360 Toothbrushes (Special Pack 2 pk.) - $2.49
Use $1.00/1 coupon here or here
Final Price: $1.49
Johnson's Baby Wash - $1.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 9/12 RP insert $3.00/3 printable
Final Price: $.99
Electrasol Finish Gelpacs or Powerball Tabs - $2.99
Use $.50/1 printable coupon here or here (doubled)
Final price: $1.99
Suave Body Wash (12 fl. oz.) - $1.50
Use $.50/1 coupon from 11/14 RP insert
Final Price: $.50

My Wegmans deals are based on the Sterling/Leesburg, VA sales ad and deals that I find in the Leesburg store.

With thanks to the coupon database at Mrs. Moneysaver for help in compiling this.

My store doubles coupons up to $.50, but Wegmans' coupon policies vary by store. Find the policy at your store here.

This post is part of BeCentsAble's Grocery Gathering, Money Saving Mom's Store Deals, and is featured at The Deal Scoop.

This post contains affiliate links, which help support this site.

Menu Planning Monday

I'm still struggling to menu plan and cook these days, especially now with Christmas preparations in full swing.  This week we unexpectedly stopped at Wegmans briefly on Sunday, and I'm going to try to get by on what we picked up then for the week.  So we're eating from the pantry and freezer.

Breakfasts:
muffins, oatmeal with craisins

Lunches :
pastrami and salami on rolls, pbj, leftovers

Dinners:
Mon - Chicken fajitas in a bowl with corn chips (meal from freezer)
Tues - Pesto pasta (homemade from freezer) with chicken, salad
Wed - Leftover fajitas with homemade tortillas
Thurs - Meat loaf, roasted potatoes, green beans
Fri - Black bean and cheese quesadillas
Sat - Turkey soup, bread
Sun - Leftovers

To bake:
St. Nicholas cookies
tortillas
sandwich bread

Best CVS Deals: 12/5-12/11

Thanks to Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living for the best CVS deals each week. 

Schick, Edge, Skintimate or Playtex Products (get $10 ECBs wyb $20) Limit 1
$.55 Edge Shave Gel SS 11/21
$.55 Skintimate Shave Gel SS 11/21
$1 Playtex printable
$1 Playtex SS 10/3
$1 Schick Disposable SS 10/31, SS 11/21
$1 Schick Quattro SS 11/21
$1 Schick Quattro or Intuition Plus SS 11/21
$1 Schick Hydro Shave Gel SS 12/05
$3/2 Playtex printable (IE), printable (FF)
$3/2 Playtex November All You Magazine
$2 Playtex printable$2 Schick Hydro or Quattro SS 12/05
$3 Schick Xtreme3 Disposable – 4 ct printable
$5 Schick Xtreme3 Disposable – 8 ct printable
= varies

Deal Idea
Buy 1 Schick Xtreme3 Disposable – 4 ct $7.99
Buy 1 Schick Xtreme3 Disposable – 8 ct $13.99
Use $3 Schick Xtreme3 Disposable – 4 ct printable
Use $5 Schick Xtreme3 Disposable – 8 ct printable
= $1.99 each after ECBs

Azo Itch Cream or Wipes $6.99 (get $5 ECBs) Limit 3 Month long promo
$1 printable
$2 printable
= FREE – $.99

Motrin PM – 20ct $5.99 (get $3 ECBs) Limit 1 Month long promo
$1 printable
$2 SS 11/21, November All You Magazine
= $.99 – $1.99 after ECBs

Complete Multi-Purpose Solution $9.99 (get $9.99) Limit 1 Month long promo
= FREE after ECBs
 
See the complete list of deals at CVS here.

Holiday Photo Cards from Shutterfly

I love sending and receiving holiday photo cards.  I know that some people dispense with Christmas cards these days, but it is a tradition that is important to me to keep up.  Sure, I'm in contact with a lot of friends on Facebook and through email, but it's nice at Christmastime to send them a physical card letting them know I am thinking of them and wishing them blessings.  Also, we have a lot of older relatives that don't use the Internet very much, so photo cards are a chance for them to see pictures of our kids.  And I know that I love getting a cute updated picture of my friends' kids as well!

In the past, I've dressed my kids in holiday outfits early in December and tried to pose a festive shot for Christmas cards.  However, that is easier said than done, and I didn't even attempt it this year with three little ones!  Instead, I am using a great tip I picked up last year from the example of a friend's card.  Instead of trying to get all three of her kids to look good together, she took individual photos of them from earlier in the year, cropped them to head shots, and turned them black and white.  Then she added them to a card design with three identical photo slots.

I loved this idea because the card still looked more festive than using, say, a beach picture, but no stressful photo session was involved!  I'm definitely using that idea this year!

After hearing lots of good things about the company, I've just started using Shutterfly for some of my photo needs. I recently ordered a photo book of our summer vacation, and I was very pleased with how it turned out.  They certainly have plenty of choice of designs for Christmas Photo Cards - 803, to be exact!

Here's another cute one for three kids:

I like this religious design, too:

Right now all the cards on Shutterfly's site are 30% off, and you can get free standard shipping with orders over $50 with code SHIP50.  Holiday cards start as low as $.32 each. 

Photo cards are something for which I make room in my Christmas budget each year, and I am never sorry that I made the effort.  Not only are they a way of sharing our lives and staying in contact with family and friends near and far, but the extras make nice keepsakes to bring out each year.

Do you send holiday photo cards?  Do you enjoy receiving them?

Disclaimer: In return for writing a post about their cards and linking to their site, Shutterfly gave me 50 free photo cards.  However, all opinions are honest and my own.

Melissa and Doug Toys 50% off!

Amazon's Gold Box Deal of the Day today is for 50% off select Melissa and Doug toys!  My daughters have this Cupcakes Set, which is just $10 today and eligible for free super saver shipping.  This set is popular with every kid who comes over and plays in our play kitchen.  As I mentioned, we love this brand's high quality toys!

Holiday Gift Guide: Our Favorite Toys

As Christmas shopping time is now in full swing, today I wanted to share some of our favorite toys.

Unlike some moms I know, I actually love toys.  I don't love cheap, overly-loud electronic, and ugly toys; but I love high-quality toys that inspire so much fun and creativity in my children.  I like to give these kinds of toys as well, but some high-quality toys can be very pricey. 

Luckily, there is still plenty of good stuff to choose from that works with my very moderate (around $15) gift budget.  Take a look at my top picks:

 - Legos - Legos are not cheap, but in my opinion, they are practically the best toy out there.  Nothing will keep my four year old occupied as long or quietly as building with her Duplos.  And you can actually get a decent Legos set for $15 or under, such as this perfect starter set for a younger child or this neat police helicopter for a more experienced builder.

 - Fisher Price Dog Pull Toy - So simple, yet so beloved.  My girls each have one of these, and I gave one to my cousin in the past.  They are so cute, and they inspire endless fun.  And they're a real bargain at easily under $10!

 - Little People - Okay, they're not quite as cool as the old smaller Little People that we played with as hand-me-downs from my uncles, but I still think the modern chunky plastic Little People are a great toy for 1-4 year olds. All kids of this age seem to enjoy roll playing with a make-believe town.  There are tons of cute sets, from a car wash to a farm to a Nativity set!  Compare prices in different places for different sets, but note that right now fisherprice.com has free shipping until Dec. 10!

-  Melissa and Doug Puzzles - Everyone I know loves Melissa and Doug!  Their wooden toys are high quality yet moderately priced.  We have a number of their puzzles for different age levels, and they're the best.  My four year old especially has loved these four puzzles in a box (there are various different sets) and this ballerina puzzle.

- Play Kitchens - This is one of the most long-lasting toys for children; they will spend many years wanting to imitate their parents.  My girls are always heading over to theirs throughout the day to "make tea" or to "feed" me.  Although you can get some very expensive play kitchens, did you know that Amazon has 843 items in the "under $25" section for the search "play kitchen"?  Some of these are dish sets, but there are actually some kitchens at this price.  This one is cute for $24.99 is cute and I love this Alex Toys tabletop stove.  Or if you wanted to stick with just $15 or under, get the Melissa & Doug Cutting Food or Slice and Bake Cookie Set.  They are the best!

 - Playdough - The classic!  Playdough is a great gift to give for a birthday party or for any time you need a generic, inexpensive kid gift.  For one thing, you can get a really cool set for very little money, such as this Play-Doh Magic Swirl Ice Cream Shoppe or this Fun Factory Set.  Also, even if the kid already has playdough, it always dries up after a while and you can always have more.  My girls can spend a glorious afternoon doing playdough anytime I'm willing to put up with the mess!

Note: most of my toys picks are for preschoolers and under, since that is what I have.  I'd love your suggestions in the comments for great toys for older children, as well as your favorite toys for this age group.

Check out Works for Me Wednesday for other great tips.

This post contains affiliate links, which help support this site.