Ramblings-n-Writings

Archive for December, 2007

For those of you who are just dying of curiousity to know how I did with National Novel Writing Month during November…..well, I didn’t reach the goal. Life simply got in the way. I have to say, first, that I admire those who did reach their goal because it is a lot of work. I did, however, write 6,318 words or 1/8th. I liked my story idea but realized it was slightly complicated and I didn’t really have time for complicated. Since I decided to do NaNoWriMo within a few days of it starting, I really didn’t have time to do the research necessary to move the story along. Maybe I’ll pick it up again in the future.

Tonight, while looking for some information for my husband, I came across a notebook where I had started researching another idea almost two years ago. I totally forgot about the idea! I’m not sure how I did, though, because it is apparent that I had spent some time thinking about it! At this point, I think I’m going to pick up my research where I left off and see what this idea seed grows into.

A few weeks ago, I posted a Money Saving Idea about shopping at CVS. Today I tried my hand at doing some ‘serious’ transactions. My goal was to get as much as possible and spend the least amount possible out of pocket. The above pile cost me $33!!! That seems like a lot compared to the CVS pros who would probably be able to get the above for under $10. But I don’t think it was a bad first try! Besides, when my husband heard how much I paid and how much we saved, he was thoroughly impressed – to the point that his mouth fell open!

So, how did I do it? I started my trip with $3 on my CVS card. For my first transaction, I purchased the razor (normally $10), wrapping paper (B1G1 for $2.99), Cheez-it (2/$5), Pringles (2/$4), Tampax (2/$6) and Scotch tape (B1G1 for $1.49). For this deal I paid the most out of pocket – approx. $17, after using CVS and manufacturers coupons, $3 on the card – but I gained $11 on my card.

For the second transaction, I purchased the two paper towels, the toilet paper, and 8 pack batteries. This was the Proctor & Gamble deal – buy $20, get $5 back. I won’t have to buy paper towels for the next 6 months! I used the $11 I just gained on the card plus CVS and manufacturers coupons, and paid $6 for those items!!!

For the third transaction, I purchased the Neosporin ($5), Snickers (2/$5), cough drops (99 cents/bag), and 2 deodorants ($1.99 each). After using the $5 ECBs on the card, CVS and manufacturer coupons, I paid approx $8 and left with $5 on my card. To me, this 3rd transaction wasn’t the ‘best’ transaction but it was additional items I wanted to purchase while they were on sale and gave ECBs.

All total, according to my receipt, I saved $79 using coupons and ECBs and buying items on sale!!! Not bad, huh?