Couponing update

I've been at it for a week and haven't really used my coupons much but I'm getting there. Last week I did some much needed prep work. I searched for or requested the coupon policies of all the stores I shop at including Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Harps, and CV's. Wal-Mart had their policy posted online but the other three I had to email to get but they were all quick to respond. From what I have researched one of the most essential parts of couponing is knowing the policies of the stores you frequent.
Armed with that, I set out to do my first super couponing. I opted for the small victory of buying anti-bacterial wipes. Walgreens had a sale for Lysol wipes. Here's the breakdown: Lysol wipes are usually 2/$5, with an in-store coupon they were 2/$3, I had a coupon for -$1/2 and a register rewards coupon for -$3, and I bought all they had in stock (3). After my deductions and coupons I came away with 3 containers for $1.19. Not exactly an extreme coupon moment, but I figure getting 3 for less than the price of one is a good start. I'll keep everyone posted on future successes.
On another budget note, I came in $40 under for my food budget for the month and was able to use that $40 to get a few items for the whole family from Old Navy. Let's hear it for good budgeting!

The Quest to Coupon

So my new addiction is TLC's Extreme Couponing. If you have yet to experience the wonder it's a show about these moms who are the queens of couponing. I'm not talking saving a few cents here and there. These women literally gets hundreds of dollars worth of groceries for $5. One mom was featured on Rachael Ray and got $6 back from the store. Amazing!
So while I may have lofty ambitions, I set my actual standards much lower. I am starting my own version of extreme couponing. I bought 2 Sunday papers (one of the moms suggests a paper per person at home) to get double the coupons. This week I plan to clip and organize. The idea is you try to double up on coupons and match store sales and store coupons. This way you get the most off you can. I'll also be clipping coupons online from coupons.com and consulting the Krazy Coupon Lady.
My husband gives me a month to get started. He claims I'll give up after that. I say 'we'll see.' I don't anticipate that I'll be like these ladies overnight, but I do hope that I can at least get my foot in the proverbial door.
Wish me luck and I'll check back with you in a month!

Simply Applesauce

Another day another new homemade recipe. I've been wanting to make my own applesauce for a while and decided today was the day.

4 lbs. apples, cored and quartered (I used some older apples that were too soft for eating or pies)
1 c. water
Cinnamon to taste
Sugar to taste (optional)

Put apples and water in a large pot. Bring to boil. Reduce heat, simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes until very tender, stirring a few times.
Press apples through a food mill. Return pulp to kettle. Stir in sugar if desired. Add additional 1/2-1 cup water for desired consistency if needed. Boil. Remove from heat.

I chose not to add sugar simply because I like my applesauce a little more tart. Also if using overripe apples, you shouldn't need much sugar. The best part about this recipe is that you can use it for baby food, just leave out the cinnamon and sugar.