Saturday, October 17, 2009

How to Make Your Meals Stretch - For Under $10

I challenged myself this week and created a tuna noodle casserole to feed 4 people (plus leftovers). It was the perfect weather for this classic comfort food/casserole. I know tuna casserole may not be a first choice. However, you can still make a homemade casserole if you scout around for bargains and stock up for the rainy days. Casseroles are big hits with the kids and you can also eat the leftovers the next day for lunch or dinner.

Here's the break down of ingredients and cost. I found the ingredients at discount-type markets.
  • 2 cans of Starkist tuna in water - $.89 each = $1.78
  • 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup =$1
  • Large pkg. elbow macaroni =$1
  • 1 c. Milk, 1 c. grated cheese, 1/4 c. diced white onion, and 1/2 c. sliced mushrooms= approx. $2
  • TOTAL = approx. $5.78 (which fed 4 people with leftovers)

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

October is Breast Cancer Awareness - Enter to Win a Pair of Cute Pink PJs!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and as a former fundraiser with the American Cancer Society who planned Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, I encourage all women 40 plus to get their mammograms and ALL women should perform monthly breast self-exams.

Please check out my friend Melanie's (super blogger, mom and fellow writer) free giveaway for a pair of cute pink pajamas and socks in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Please take the time to check out her information on her blog (and enter to win the PJs!) http://sunshineisfree.blogspot.com/2009/10/october-is-breast-cancer-awareness.html

Wear a pink ribbon this month! Remember and honor those survivors and loved ones in the fight against breast cancer.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Discount $1 Stores - Good Finds!

It's a toss up these days between Dollar Tree and the 99 Cents stores. Obviously, the names say it all. Here are some of my favorite finds at both stores.

Dollar Tree - Can't beat name brand toothpaste for $1 (at supermarkets and drug stores, you're looking at paying $2 - $3 for Crest and other name brands). Hand sanitizers and anti-bacterial hand soap are great finds here too!

99 Cents Store - I stock up on my flavored mineral waters, juices and snack items (like chips and crackers). If you are up for a bargain hunting challenge, you can also find decent produce (fruits and veggies) and canned goods such as chilis, refried beans, canned veggies and miscellaneous items such as spices and baking items (baking powder, sugar, etc.) Just make sure to check expiration dates. Sometimes you will get lucky with name brands but don't turn your nose up at the "off" brands - they are just as good and your family won't know the difference. Remember to always check the expiration dates on all items (sometimes the bulk items they sell are expired).

If you don't live near a Dollar Tree or 99 Cent Store, you can find similar bargains at discount $1 stores across the U.S. They are great places to buy in bulk - napkins, paper towels and toilet paper - just don't go overboard. It's very easy to go crazy in bargain/discount stores - I'm proof of that!

Happy Bargain Hunting!!

Friday, October 9, 2009

Trader Joe's - It's Not Just for the Shi-Shi Shoppers

I've shopped at Trader Joe's for years and have argued with friends and family members about the prices. There are many items you can find at TJ's that are far more expensive at regular grocery stores. The wine selection can't be beat (yayyy for 2 Buck Chuck wine!)

Here are some of my favorite finds:
  • Ready-made pizza dough for under $2 (who can beat that price?) - add their pizza sauce and their shredded mozzarella cheese and you have a cheese pizza for the kids' lunch.
  • Baked blue corn tortilla chips with their fresh TJ's mild salsa - YUM
  • My latest find was pumpkin waffle and pancake mix for the Fall season
  • Frozen fish and fresh meats/poultry - great selection and reasonable prices
Trader Joe's is an adventure when it comes to shopping. It can be tough to find miscellaneous items,and you can't find everything there. Baking items are hard to find but they are getting better at stocking baking goodies, especially during the holiday season.

I am a HUGE fan of Trader Joe's and I highly suggest you check it out - I guarantee you can save a bundle and TJ's has a huge selection of organic and healthy items (especially for people who are diabetic or gluten-intolerant).

Happy Trader Joe's Shopping! :) With the holidays right around the corner, this is one of my favorite spots for stocking up on the holiday food goodies and WINE! YUMMMMIE!
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