CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD

3rd graders at Chubbuck had a program at Christmas called "Christmas around the world." They sang a Haunakah song, Kaunza song, and everything in between. It was different. Faith had a solo and did a good job even though she was sick. Here are a few pictures:

DO I REALLY SAVE?

So, for those of you who know me, you'll know that I regularly coupon. Yes, couponing takes a bit of time and there is a learning curve. Many of you have asked me if I really do save money by couponing.

This month (January 2010), I set aside $280 for groceries, toiletries, and couponing. I did this in cash in an envelope so that I couldn't over spend. I did have a little bit on a gift card though, so that helped a bit this month. I spent a total of $291.32 BUT I saved $90.35 in coupons alone (that doesn't include automatic savings or sale price savings.) I also had the gift card, so I did keep my actually spending below my budgeted amount. I kept all of my receipts and made a quick spreadsheet to track totals.

Here is my latest example (ignore the crappy picture of my store room):


I bought this today at Smiths for $5.56 (that includes my tax!) I saved $14.05 in coupons, and then there was an automatic $5 that was taken off at the register. 4 boxes of Toaster Studels, 3 boxes of Electarsol tabs, 2 cans of Hormel chili, and 1 box of Post Raisin Bran.

So, many may argue if it is worth it? Yes, it does take time. Yes, sometimes I make an extra trip to the store on occasion. And yes, the coupon policies are forever changing. But my answer is "YES!" It is worth it for me and my family. What deals have you scored lately?

THANKSGIVING '09

We were lucky enough to go to Justin & Amy's house for Thanksgiving this year. I just started a job at Sunsations, so I ended up having to work the day before Thanksgiving and the day after Thanksgiving, but we did spend the night on Thanksgiving. Thanks for letting us come and spend time with you!

Here are the appetizers. I made the traditional blessing mix that I do every year. Each item represents something about Thanksgiving.
Bugles - represent the cornucopia
Pretzels - represent arms folded in thanks
Candy corn - represent the pilgrims eating only 5 pieces of corn that first Thanksgiving
Nuts - represent the seeds that are planted each year
Orange slices - represent the fruits of a bountiful harvest
I hope that everyone enjoys this as much as I do!


Amy was so prepared. She bought different games for the kids to keep them entertained. We played Pin the Hat on the Turkey, and J-I-N-G-O (Thanksgiving bingo). Here are the kids playing Pin the Hat on the Turkey:

Johnny

Kate


Dawson (he peeked everytime - it was hilarious)

Andrew

Faith

Britney opted not to play - LOL!

Here are the tables set up SO pretty.

Preparing the dinner and carving the dinner:

Mary, Britney, Amy, and me:

Enjoying our dinner: