Keeping Your Cents

Spring Fashionista Lookbook and $279 Rarities Earrings Giveaway

2012-02-15T00:01:00.000-06:00

Take a Sneak Peak at the Largest Fashion Event on the Internet!

The Spring Fashionista LookBook is now available and just skimming the pages will make you wish the March 2-7 event were already here! At the very least it will have you re-arranging your calendar so you can free up those days in order to enter as many of the 100+ giveaways as possible.

What is the Spring Fashionista Giveaway?
Take a deep breath! It is the internet’s largest and only ALL FASHION, ONLY FASHION related giveaway blog giveaway EVENT. Taking place March 2-7, every giveaway in the event will be valued at $100 – or more!

It gets better. Since are more than 110 bloggers participating that means there will be more than $20,000 worth of prizes to win--many giveaways are over $300! Are you still breathing? It’s a little hard to take in, right?!

What is the LookBook?

To get you even more excited, the LookBook is giving you a sneak peak at some of the giveaways that will be offered during the event. Flip through the pages and find the numerous gift cards that will give you a well-deserved shopping spree. Or maybe jewelry is more your style. No problem. There are hundreds of dollars worth of babules to adorn your ears, wrists and throat. Plus, you could win a new pair of jeans or a design-your-own dress. And what fashion giveaway would be complete without a number of trendy purses? Feast your eyes on the possibilities.

And if all of this wasn’t enough… The Fashionista EVENTS LookBook is offering you the chance to win your own pair of Pink Opal And Gemstone Rose Vermeil Drop Earrings by Rarities: Fine Jewelry with Carol Brodie.

Thanks Carol for being our Lookbook Sponsor for the Spring Fashionista Event! The earrings are pear shaped pink opal (3. 92 Cts), round Rhodolite, and round White Topaz and retail for $279. They are show-stopping stunners and they could be yours!

Enter in the Rafflecopter Giveaway tool below!

The Spring Fashionista Giveaway Event is the amazing brainchild of The Chief Blonde at Still Blonde After All These Years. Her co-hosts for the event are Katy Rose of ModlyChic and Ellen of The Socialite’s Closet

Mark your calendars for March 2-7. It’s going to be Epic! Also, visit our Grand Prize Sponsor, Bella Bags who is donating $1200 (retail) Marc Jacobs Bag as the Spring Fashionista Events Grand Prize!

Here on Keeping Your Cents, we are working on an eclectic blend of fashion items that will in turn make you smile with delight and squeal with laughter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Ignite the Fire with a Kindle Fire

2012-02-14T00:01:00.000-06:00

Are you ready to Ignite the Fire this Valentine's Day? Adventures of a Military Family of 8 and 7 on a Shoestring are co-hosting this great event and I have teamed up with them and 28 other bloggers to bring you this Kindle Fire Giveaway.

With movies, apps, games, music, reading and more, the Kindle Fire is the hottest e-reader available and you could win it here!

How to enter:

You are going to have to work for this one. The event is self-sponsored and there are 30 bloggers participating. Each one has contributed towards the Kindle Fire and deserves a little recognition.

Therefore, there are plenty of ways to earn entries as you like all 30 Facebook pages, follow 30 Twitter accounts, and add 12 bloggers to your Google+ circles.

Enter using the Rafflecopter form below. The contest ends at 11:59pm EST on February 27, 2012.

Please note: All entries will be verified. Shipping is only available to the US per Amazon's restrictions, thus the giveaway is only open to US residents.

Happy Winning!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Blog Organiztion, Tips, and Printables

2012-02-09T09:24:00.000-06:00

Time for Admission #1,257

I sometimes fear that you start cringing when you see me about to make an admission on my blog. That's okay - I understand. Sometimes I cringe when I am about to make one.
So what is today's admission?

I stink at being organized on my blog. That probably isn't a surprise to my dear readers. Just take a gander at the poor, pitiful Alexa ranking up there in the toolbar. Ohhh...you don't have the Alexa toolbar? I'll hold on a second while you download and install it.

Okay....you didn't have to laugh quite so hard! That hurt my blog's feelings.

I've been sucked into the time vortex over on Pinterest, but in the process of losing 4 hours -- I found some goodies. Goodies you can use to make your blog better than the one you are currently reading.

If you find some goodies that others might like or use, please leave a comment and link.

Blog Planner by Between U and Me

Blog Organization Filofax by draw! Pilgrim

Blog Topics by Perideau Designs

Weekly Blog Planner by Oh the Lovely Things

Free Printable Blog Calendar by Living Locurto

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Wholly Guacamole! Signups Open

2012-02-08T11:16:00.001-06:00

Wholly Guacamole it’s a Giveaway Hop! Tammilee Tips, Money Saving Michele and Klippin’ Krazy are hosting this new event.

Eat Wholly will be sponsoring a GRAND PRIZE Giveaway valued at $200 plus! The event begins April 1 at 12:01 AM EST and ends April 10 at Midnight EST.

Sign Ups open now at Tammilee Tips, don’t miss it! Blogger prizes, too!

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Eco-Friendly in the Kitchen

2012-02-05T11:11:00.000-06:00

Being eco-friendly can also extend into the kitchen.

Activities and Challenges
Make Solar Sweet Tea

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Eco-Friendly on a Budget, Day 4

2012-02-04T10:51:00.000-06:00

Use environmentally friendly products. When you go to the grocery store, you probably see more and more “natural” or “eco friendly” products every time.

There are generally two big problems with these products:
1. Just because they’re more natural than regular products, doesn’t mean they’re entirely natural.
2. They’re often expensive.

If you want inexpensive, natural, safe products, why not just make them yourself?

Vinegar is a great way to clean and disinfect glass and other surfaces.
Need to remove stubborn stains? Just add some baking soda to your vinegar cleaner.

Some quick searching online will lead you to hundreds of other natural safe home-made cleaning products.

We all knowing that going green is better for the environment, but it’s also better for you. Conserving resources also helps save you money, which is something most of us are happy to live with.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Complimentary Energy Kit Available to limited States

2012-02-03T17:15:00.002-06:00

Duke Energy is offering an awesome freebie that is perfectly in keeping with our Eco-Friendly series and National Green Week 2012.

The My Energy Kit includes the following items:

* Compact Fluorescent Bulb
* Low Flow Showerhead
* Energy Efficiency Limelight Style Night Light
* Kitchen Faucet Aerator
* Bathroom Faucet Aerator
* Water flow meter bag
* Combination Pack of Switch/Outlet Gasket Insulators
* Teflon Tape
* Hot Water Gauge Card
* Glow Ring Toy
* And more!

Residents of Ohio, North Carolina and South Carolina are eligible to request a free kit that will arrive in about 3 weeks

(Thanks Hip2Save)

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Eco-Friendly on a Budget, Day 3

2012-02-03T09:58:00.000-06:00

Here is the third in our series of articles on Budget-Friendly ways to make your home more eco-friendly.

Tip #3 -- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Most of us know the three R’s: reduce, reuse, recycle, but when we work on conserving, we often leave reuse out of the picture.

While you can often find tips on how to reuse common products from other people, what you need most is creativity. With a little thought there are many items around your home that can be reused – toilet paper holders can be used to sow seeds for the vegetable patch. And old yogurt containers can be cut into strip to make plant labels. Old food jars can be refilled with homemade foods or can make great impromptu vases.

Activities and Challenges:

Missed an article from our National Green Week celebration? Here they are again.

National Green Week 2012
Eco-Friendly on a Budget
Eco-Friendly on a Budget, Day 2

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

TGIF!

2012-02-03T07:27:00.000-06:00

Swagbucks is releasing a new set of Collector's Bills just in time for Valentine's Day - 5 romantic reminders worth different amounts of reward points. Collect them all and get 14 Bonus Swag Bucks to use towards your free stuff! The bills come out at midnight PT on Monday and will be available only through Search until 11:59pm PT on Valentine's Day.

Happy Searching!

What are Swag Bucks and how do I win them?

Put simply, Swag Bucks are reward points that you win searching the internet, watching videos, completing surveys, voting in daily polls, entering swagcodes, printing coupons and inviting your friends.

Once I win them, what do I do with them?

"Every Friday is Mega Swag Bucks Day (MSBD), which means better odds of winning BIG Swag Bucks denominations!

Simply search naturally, and with a little luck, you'll be winning large bills starting at 20 Swag Bucks and up."

So what are you waiting for? Sign up with Swag Bucks and start earning.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Eco-Friendly on a Budget, Day 2

2012-02-02T09:55:00.000-06:00

Clipart Credit

Need more ideas on budget-friendly ways to make your home more eco-friendly?

Tip #2 -- Use less energy.

If you don’t have the money to buy a hybrid car or convert your house to solar power, you can make a big difference with small changes.

- Buy energy efficient appliances. They may be more expensive, but make up for the increased cost in lower energy bills.

- Unplug chargers when you’re not using them. Cell phone and other chargers use up powers even if there’s nothing attached to them.

- Put devices with remotes, like T.V.s, VCRs, and stereos, on a power strip and turn it off when you’re not using them. These devices use a lot of power to run the remote receiver even when the device is off.

- Walk or ride your bike for short trips.

- Buy local products. It takes energy to transport food and other products across the country. Buying local not only supports your local economy, it helps them use less energy.

When it comes to saving energy and water, it’s a great idea to get the kids involved.

Have them track how much water and electricity everyone is using.
Compete to see who uses the least water.
Make it fun!

Activities and Challenges

Green Energy Challenges to do with the kids:

Missed an article from our National Green Week celebration? Here they are again.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Shhh...I Have a Secret

2012-02-02T08:21:00.000-06:00

I have a secret super cute Groupon deal that you can only get by clicking on the link below. Want to see what it is?

The Groupon is for the super soft and cuddly Nuddle Blanket, which is a blanket especially designed for strollers. It has openings designed for the straps of a five-point harness, so you won't get any slippage of baby or blanket. February 2-4th you can purchase the Nuddle Blanket for $19.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

New E-coupons From SavingStar

2012-02-02T07:22:00.000-06:00

There are 13 new SavingStar e-coupons to activate to your account.

New to SavingStar?

SavingStar allows you to save on your groceries with little to no effort! It is a new eCoupon service that's totally paperless - so there's nothing to clip or print. Best of all, you can still use your regular manufacturer coupons.

Get over 30 eCoupons worth over $50 saved directly to your store loyalty cards such as CVS, Rite Aid, and Winn Dixie!Click Here to sign up now.

Also be sure to print manufacturer coupons on Keeping Your Cents from the Coupon Network & Redplum.

Below each image is a list of manufacturer coupons that may be used with the e-coupon from SavingStar for even more savings.

New SavingStar Grocery eCoupons:

Save 70¢ on any ONE (1) Kellogg's Krave(TM) Cereal (11 oz. or Larger, Any Flavor) .Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 GUM® Soft Picks, Save 55¢.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.

Buy 2 GUM® Toothbrushes (does not include Crayola Kids), Save $1.00.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 GUM® Canker-X®, Save $1.00.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.(Only at CVS)

Buy 1 GUM® Canker-X®, Save $1.00.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.(Only at Rite Aid)

Buy 1 GUM® PerioShield®, Save $3.00.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.(Only at CVS)

Buy 1 GUM® PerioBalance®, Save $5.00.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.(Only at Rite Aid)

Buy 1 GUM® PerioBalance®, Save $5.00.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.(Only at CVS)

Buy 2 Wasa Crispbread Crackers, Save $1.50.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.

Buy (1) McCain Purely Potatoes®, Save $1.00.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.

Buy (1) McCain® Sweet Potato Fries, Save $1.00.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.

Buy any TWO (2) cans of Red Gold Tomatoes, 10 oz. or larger, Save 75¢.Expires 2/29/2012.One time use only.

Buy any 3 boxes of Kleenex® Facial Tissue (Does not include trial sizes), Save 50¢.Expires 2/22/2012.One time use only.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Eco-Friendly on a Budget

2012-02-01T12:06:00.000-06:00

Budget-Friendly Ways to Make your Home More Eco-Friendly

We all want to do our part to protect the environment, but without a large paycheck, that can be seem difficult, if not impossible. But doing your part doesn’t have to be hard.
Small steps add up to a big difference -- you just have to know which ones to take.

Tip #1 -- Use less water.

Photo Copyright FreeStockImages.org

Saving water is all about small steps, here are a few that will help save big.

- Shut off the water while you brush your teeth

- Take showers that are a minute or two shorter

- Only flush the toilet when you need to

- Only run full loads of laundry and dishes

- Buy from sustainable producers. These are farmers, ranchers, and other producers that use techniques that pollute less and use less water.

Activities and Challenges

Measure the Water Flow Rates in Your Home

~ Determine the rate of flow from your faucets and showerheads. Download this activity by clicking on the image to the left. (Activity provided by the Green Education Foundation.)

~ Ask: What kinds of equipment can be installed in sinks and showerheads to conserve water in a home or building with a high flow-rate?

Stay Tuned for tip umber 2 tomorrow.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Need a Vacation?

2012-01-31T07:07:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but I feel in desperate need of a vacation.

Groupon has some nice travel deals starting today that just might be what the doctor ordered. All deals are good through February 6, 2012.

Deal 1: Two-night stay for two with daily breakfast and dining credit at West Mountain Inn in Arlington, Vermont for $205. That's a 53% savings off the total average value.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Deal 2: $159 for a one-night stay at the West Sonoma Inn & Spa in Guernville, California. Includes two wine tasting passes and a bottle of wine.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Deal 3: 6 Night stay for two at the Mana Island Resort and Spa in Fiji from $949.

Be sure to read the fine print on all Groupon deals before making a purchase. And when you go, share the details with us. Okay, share the G-rated details.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

National Green Week 2012

2012-01-30T11:33:00.000-06:00

National Green Week is just around the corner (February 6 -10, 2012) so start making plans now.

According to the Green Education Foundation:

"The United States is the number one trash producing country in the world at 1,609 pounds per person/per year
Paper products make up the largest part of our trash (approximately 40%)
Every ton of recycled office paper saves 380 gallons of oil
Energy saved from one recycled aluminium can will operate a TV set for 3 hours, and is the equivalent to half a can of gasoline
Glass is one of the very few products that can be completely recycled again and again. However, if it ends up in a landfill it will never decompose
Plastic bags and other plastic thrown into the ocean kills as many as 1,000,000 sea creatures every year"

Be sure to visit the Green Education Foundation website for:

Lesson Plans
Activities
Challenges
Contests
Green Packs for Classrooms
Adopt-a-Plant for Classrooms
Recycling Programs

Please visit us again for articles, downloads, and other ways that you can participate in the fun of National Green Week.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Is there really gender discrimination in business?

2012-01-28T13:12:00.000-06:00

The following is a guest post by Lynette Chandler of SoloMasterminds.

"In a private Facebook group, I noticed a lot of people were looking for a tech person to work with. So, I introduced myself. Upon returning to check on the status, I saw a post at the very top of the wall from a guy who also introduced himself as a coder.

Now, I'm not that naive to think I am the only geek in a group. There are probably many people better at tech than me in any group. What gave me pause was, why this guy's introduction got so many responses when mine hardly went noticed.

A horrifying thought flashed through my mind. It couldn't be true. Did he get more attention because he's� a man?

Maybe you have experienced something similar. Something that made you stop to wonder if you didn't win the bid, secure that client or get that exposure because you are a woman.

Then, you look around and it looks like all the top dogs are men.Of course it depends on the industry you are in but I'm here to tell you, even in seemingly male-centric arenas, there are plenty of women quietly making serious coin. Sometimes, we aren't seeing the ladies because women simply aren't vocal about their successes. And, when we toot our own horn, we often express it in an entirely different manner.

For us, being able to support our families and being there when the kids get off the bus mean a whole lot more than 'crushing it' or making a million dollars in 24 hours. I'm not saying women don't strive for that. I'd love to make that kind of money any day. It's just, our goals are often more immediate and realistic.That is why it's always refreshing to hear stories about real women and how they broke through the barriers.

If you need a little inspiration from authentic women just like you, head on over to SoloMasterminds. They are bragging on three ladies who turned their wildest dreams into reality while juggling homework, laundry, whiny children, soccer practices and meal plans.

As for that little incident I told you about earlier, after giving it more thought, I decided it had nothing to do with gender nor discrimination of any kind. There were plenty of logical and probably more accurate explanations like the timing of our posts and how quickly my post got buried under a flurry of activity.

What I learned that week - focus on being awesome instead of speculating about something that may not be true because when working for yourself, there is no glass ceiling. Especially with an Internet business. Don't take my word for it. Check out the three case studies and let those women tell you their story."

--- BIO ---

Lynette Chandler helps small businesses leverage technology in their marketing. She is also the resident tech expert at SoloMasterminds and credits it for helping to turn her business around.

Lynette would love to connect with you in this special community and invites you to come check it out.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Planning a Trip Soon?

2012-01-27T08:13:00.000-06:00

If you are like me, you are constantly planning or daydreaming about planning your next trip. Be it camping, cruising, or going to Walt Disney World.

Having a family of 5 and being on a tight budget means the reality is, we don't have a lot of disposable income for vacation.

So how do we bridge the gap between our wishes and our wallets?

You have to get creative!

My solution is to participate in legitimate reward programs that allow me to earn my way on vacation. My favorite is Swagbucks.

What are Swag Bucks and how do I win them?

Once I win them, what do I do with them?

"Every Friday is Mega Swag Bucks Day (MSBD), which means better odds of winning BIG Swag Bucks denominations!

Simply search naturally, and with a little luck, you'll be winning large bills starting at 20 Swag Bucks and up."

So what are you waiting for? Sign up with Swag Bucks and start earning.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Healthy Weight Day 2012

2012-01-25T09:22:00.000-06:00

It is time for Healthy Weight Day 2012!

This is something that is hitting pretty close to home today. I constantly struggle with getting to and maintaining a healthy weight.

My goal for today?

Adopt new habits that will help my children and I achieve healthy weights. I honestly agree with experts who say that many of the trials and tribulations of childhood can be minimized by healthy eating habits.

However instilling and enforcing these habits in children, particularlyteenagers, can be near impossible. I believe the key then is to help them create healthy habits now while they’re young.

Here are some simple ways that I am working to create healthy habits in my three kids:

Have healthy snacks readily available
Offer water before any other drink
Add more exercise into our routine

Do you need some motivation to get started exercising? 24 Hour Fitness is offering a complimentary 7 day pass to get things healthier.

Also be sure to enter to win the Progresso Souper You prize pack here on Keeping Your Cents which includes a Biggest Loser Workout DVD.
* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Purchase Inexpensive Date Night Tickets

2012-01-25T06:15:00.000-06:00

From the producer of Devil Wears Prada, One for the Money enshrines Janet Evanovich's best-selling 18-book mystery series on the big screen with a star-flecked cast and pulse-hiking display of fast-paced action-comedy.

Katherine Heigl stars as street-smart Jersey girl Stephanie Plum, who, after losing her job, her car, and her ability to pronounce the word indemnification, takes up work as a bounty hunter at her cousin's bail-bonding firm.

Perp hunting and handcuffing get personal when Stephanie confronts her former high-school flame and current bail-jumping murder suspect Joe Morelli, played by Jason O'Mara, dramatically altering the chemical composition of the screenplay with an infusion of volatile romance.

Groupon is offering a great movie steal today if you're a cinema buff... get a ticket to see the movie "One for the Money for $6 (or two for $12), which opens in theaters nationwide this Friday, January 27.

The Groupon is good for tickets purchased through HollywoodMovieMoney.com, which services most AMC theaters. You can find theater locations HERE.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Need K-Cups for your Keurig?

2012-01-23T09:43:00.000-06:00

If you are in need of some K-cups for your Keurig or just want to try some new flavors, then head over to Facebook to snag a free sample.

Barista Prima Coffeehouse is giving away a free sample pack of their coffees.

Please note that this offer is limited to one per household and only if you have not received a sample in the past.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Upcoming MM at CVS

2012-01-22T13:48:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to give you a heads up on a couple of a possible upcoming moneymaker at CVS the week of 1/29-2/4.

This will give you a chance to search for some of the Tom's tearpad coupons before next week's sale.

(* Original ad scan by gg133 @ slickdeals)

Buy (2) Tom's of Maine Deodorant, Toothpaste or Mouthwash @ $3.99 (Limit of 2 per household)
Use (2) $2/1 any Tom's of Maine products exp. 4/30
Pay $3.98 and Get $6 ECB

$2.02 MM after ECB

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Better Than Free Rips Licorice at Rite Aid

2012-01-22T09:35:00.002-06:00

This week at Rite Aid get Rips Bite-Sized Licorice for a small moneymaker.

Buy (3) Rips Bite Sized Licorice; 4 oz @ $1.00 ea = $3.00
Use (3) 50¢/1 Rips Licorice mq from 12/11 SS exp. 3/31
Pay $1.50 and Earn (2) $1 Peg candy +upr

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Spirit Week and MegaSwagbucks Friday (1/20)

2012-01-20T06:23:00.000-06:00

"Every Friday is Mega Swag Bucks Day (MSBD), which means better odds of winning BIG Swag Bucks denominations!

Simply search naturally, and with a little luck, you'll be winning large bills starting at 20 Swag Bucks and up."

What are Swag Bucks and how do I win them?

Once I win them, what do I do with them?

Swagbucks Spirit Week Coming!

But get your pom-poms ready, folks, because starting on Monday Swagbucks is holding Spirit Week!

Every day next week they will be celebrating a different holiday and each day will be filled with fun, activities, and surprises. They'll be announcing every holiday the evening before in our Swagbucks blog.

Make sure you keep track of each day's Swag Codes, as you will need them at the end of the week in order to earn a big, juicy reward.

It's the most fun you can have getting your reward points for free stuff!

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I receive a small amount of points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Progresso Souper You Prize Pack

2012-01-15T00:01:00.000-06:00

Are you ready for a new look this New Year? Progresso^® is excited to announce the return of their Souper You^® Contest giving you the chance to win an incredible makeover! By telling Progresso^® why you deserve a makeover and what you love about their soup, you could have the chance to win an ultimate makeover experience in Hollywood this Spring!

Now that the ball has dropped and the confetti has settled, it’s time to consider how you will stick to your resolution for the New Year and maintain your weight management plan, without sacrificing on variety or the taste of foods you love. Thanks to Progresso^®, you can have your soup and eat it too!

With 40 delicious soups with 100 calories or less per serving, Progresso^® Soup has a variety of offerings that help you beat diet boredom and satisfy your taste cravings, while helping you stick to your weight management calorie goals. Progresso^® soups are packed with hearty ingredients like pasta, beans, rice, meat and vegetables that suit your taste buds and make you feel good about including it in your meal choices.

This year, the Souper You^® Contest will provide three lucky winners with an ultimate makeover experience in Hollywood; this includes a trip for 2 to Los Angeles, California where the winner will receive a head-to-toe makeover including hair and makeup, guided shopping spree with a $1,000 fashion retailer gift card, $1,000 spending money and 2 tickets to this season’s live finale of NBC’s The Biggest Loser
Progresso is asking fans to visit www.SouperYou.com and submit their photo with a brief essay about why they love Progresso soups and why they deserve a makeover, by no later than February 22nd
Fans can check back on March 12th for the announcement of the top ten finalists, and to vote for their favorite finalist until March 25th
In addition, visit http://bit.ly/ProgressoCoup to download a printable coupon for $1.25 off the purchase of four (4) cans of Progresso Soup today, and feel free to share with your blog readers so they can take advantage of the savings as well
Also, tune into The Biggest Loser on NBC Tuesdays at 8/7c

Click "Read More" to load Rafflecopter widget.

Enter now to win a Progresso Soup prize Pack.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* Disclosure: The Progresso^®Souper You prize pack, information, coupon, and giveaway have been provided by Progresso through MyBlogSpark. This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Join the Mobile Movement!

2012-01-14T07:36:00.000-06:00

The smartphone has made saving money easier than ever, so are you taking advantage of money-saving offers with yours?

Current companies that offer mobile sales alerts and coupon savings:

Lane Bryant -- Text "LBTXT" to 44844 recieve up to (4) four texts a month with sales and coupons. You can opt out at any time by sending "STOP" to the same number.

Payless -- Join Payless Insiders to be the first to hear of upcoming sales and money saving coupons. Join by texting "PAYLESS" to 747474. You will also get 20% off your next purchase.

Dollar General -- Want to score 10% off your online order on dg.com? Then text "TEN" to 34898. (Expires 2/1/12)

Target -- Receive exclusive offers via text and up to 5 additional texts a month. Target will send you scannable mobile coupns. How easy is that! Text "OFFERS" to 827438.

Walgreens Mobile Coupons

Know of other great money-saving text alerts? Send us an email with your find.

# Standard text messaging rates apply.
* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

MegaSwagbucks Extravaganza Friday (1/13)

2012-01-13T05:21:00.000-06:00

"Every Friday is Mega Swag Bucks Day (MSBD), which means better odds of winning BIG Swag Bucks denominations! Simply search naturally, and with a little luck, you'll be winning large bills starting at 20 Swag Bucks and up."

What are Swag Bucks and how do I win them?

Once I win them, what do I do with them?

Swagbucks is making Friday the 13th a lucky day this week, as they hold a Swag Code Extravaganza, which means more opportunities to get reward points towards free stuff! Starting at 6am Central/7am Eastern Time and throughout the day there will be 8 different Swag Codes. If you can get them all, you'll have an extra 60 Swag Bucks in your account.

See you there!

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I receive a small amount of points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Android Tablets for $149

2012-01-12T21:45:00.001-06:00

Have you been waiting on a sale on an Android Tablet? Now you can get a 7" Coby Kyros Android Tablet for $149. Click on picture to be taken to the Groupon sale.

Special ends January 22nd.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Rafflecopter Launch Party

2012-01-09T20:20:00.001-06:00

Want a chance to win an 16GB iPad2 and Kindle Fire?

In celebration of the official launch of the new Rafflecopter, they are giving you a chance to win a brand new 16GB Apple iPad2.

If you tell them that Mardesia @ Keeping Your Cents referred you then I have an opportunity to win a Kindle Fire!

See that cute little guy up there? Well as cute as he is, he doesn't have a name. Suggest a name for him on the form below to earn another entry in the iPad giveaway. Plus, if your name is chosen as his new name--you will win a Kindle Fire.

This giveaway is open for the US and Canadian residents and will close February 9th at 12:01 a.m. EST.

Click "Read More" below to load the Rafflecopter widget.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Ocean Spray Snacks Review and Prize Pack

2012-01-09T00:01:00.000-06:00

So you want a snack your kids will love and that you can feel good about?

With new Ocean Spray^® Fruit Flavored Snacks, you need not look any further!

Available in two delicious varieties, Ocean Spray^® Fruit Flavored Snacks provide kids with the great tasting snacks they crave and parents with the confidence that they come from a good place.

Ocean Spray^® Fruit Flavored Snacks are:

†Made with real fruit juice and natural colors* and flavors.

80 calories, gluten free and contain 100% of the Daily Value of Vitamin C.

Available with year round Double Box Tops.

Four (4) readers will be chosen to win a prize pack of 6 boxes of Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored Snacks in two varieties.

* Keeping Your Cents Giveaway of a Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored Snacks Prize pack is open to US residents only.

* No purchase or consideration necessary to enter.

* The Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored Snacks Giveaway begins at 12:01 am Monday, January 9, 2012 and ends 12:01 am Monday, January 16, 2012

* Four winners will be chosen with Random.org on or about January 18, 2012 and will be contacted via email. You will have 48 hours to respond or an alternate winner will be chosen.

* Your prize pack will be shipped directly from the sponsor.

* This giveaway is not associated or affiliated with Facebook or Twitter.

* Keeping Your Cents is not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prize obligation.

* You are sharing your information with Keeping Your Cents for the purpose of this giveaway only. Winners info will be shared with sponsor for prize fulfillment only.

Can't wait to win 1 of 4 prize packs being given away to try Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored Snacks? Then click here to download a printable coupon for $1.10 off of the purchase of (2) Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored snacks today!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*colors from natural sources

†These Fruit Flavored Snacks are made with apple, pear, and cranberry juice concentrate. See package for a list of complete ingredients. They are not intended to replace fruit in the diet.

*“Disclosure: Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored Snacks, information, and giveaway have been provided by Ocean Spray through MyBlogSpark.”

This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Frosted Toast Crunch Review and Prize Pack

2012-01-08T00:01:00.000-06:00

Tired of the same old breakfast routine?

Introducing NEW Frosted Toast Crunch, with the delicious taste of frosted vanilla*, this cereal is totally irresistible.

Just one bite of the new Frosted Toast Crunch will send you into breakfast bliss, with each crunch square baked with the delightful taste of artificially flavored frosted vanilla and dusted with a delicious dash of cinnamon.

With 11 grams of whole grain, 9 grams of sugar and a good source of calcium, Frosted Toast Crunch offers a good start to the day

Crave those new FROSTED crazy squares? They’ll be available in your local grocers early January, just in time for return-to-school

Take your cereal to the next level with this wholesome breakfast. Your taste buds will be swirling with excitement!

If you have read my earlier review of General Mills cereal, you know that once the cereal hits the front door it is game on with the hubby and the kids.

Cinnamon Toast Crunch is another of my husband's favorite cereal. Don't tell him I told you this, but he squealed like a girl when I took the Frosted Toast Crunch out of the box.

By the time the sun had set, half the box of cereal was gone! I mean to tell you that Frosted Toast Crunch is good and addictive. We told ourselves we were just going to have a taste and leave the rest for the children. Uhmmm...see what had happened was....

Enter now to win your very own Frosted Toast Crunch prize pack; including:

* New Frosted Toast Crunch Cereal

* A Spilt Milk Bowl

* A Lickety Spoon

* A Frosted Pitcher

The Rules of the Giveaway:
* Keeping Your Cents Giveaway of a Frosted Toast Crunch Prize pack is open to US residents only.

* No purchase or consideration necessary to enter.

* The Frosted Toast Crunch Giveaway begins at 12:01 am Monday, January 2, 2012 and ends 12:01 am Monday, January 9, 2012

* One winner will be chosen with Random.org on or about January 11, 2012 and will be contacted via email. You will have 48 hours to respond or an alternate winner will be chosen.

* Your prize pack will be shipped directly from the sponsor.

* This giveaway is not associated or affiliated with Facebook or Twitter.

* Keeping Your Cents is not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prize obligation.

* You are sharing your information with Keeping Your Cents for the purpose of this giveaway only. Winners info will be shared with sponsor for prize fulfillment only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

* Disclosure: Frosted Toast Crunch, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Mega Swagbucks Day (1/6)

2012-01-06T09:56:00.000-06:00

What are Swag Bucks and how do I win them?

Once I win them, what do I do with them?

Once you win them, you cash them in for awesome prizes in the Swag Store or to enter Swagstakes. For example, redeem just 450 Swag bucks for a $5 Amazon gift code or 700 for $5 deposited to your Paypal account.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up with Swag Bucks and start earning.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I receive a small amount of points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Keep More Money in Your Pocket

2012-01-05T06:45:00.000-06:00

Keep up to $6 more money in your pocket by using 7 new SavingStar e-coupons available to activate to your account.

New to SavingStar?

Buy 2 Keebler® Cookies (6.6 oz. or Larger, Any Flavor, Mix or Match), Save $1.00.Expires 1/25/2012.One time use only.

Buy any 3 Kellogg's® Cereals (10 oz. or Larger, Any Flavor, Mix or Match), Save $1.00.Expires 1/25/2012.One time use only.

$1.00/3 Kellogg's Cereals printable on Kelllogg's.com

Buy 1 package of Scott Paper Towels 4+ rolls, long lasting or mega rolls, Save $1.00.Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Krazy Glue, Save 50¢.Expires 2/1/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 GUM® Go-Betweens®, Save 75¢.Expires 2/1/2012.One time use only.

Buy 2 GUM® Toothbrushes (does not include Crayola Kids), Save $1.00.Expires 2/1/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 GUM® Eez-Thru Flosser®, Save 75¢.Expires 2/1/2012.One time use only.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

2011 in Review | Top 5 Best Deals

2011-12-31T16:18:00.000-06:00

When I review my coupon shopping in 2011, there are some sales and coupons that stand out in my mind. Deals that still make me smile.

Let me know if you agree with my top 5 list or if you think of some that I've forgotten.

5. Centrum ProNutrients Vitamins Triple Dip @ Rite Aid (priced $9.59 after Gold discount) --

Earn $10 +upr wyb (3),
Earn $10 +upr wyb $50 Diabetes Wellness Program,
Earn $10 +upr wyb $50 Season of Savings,
$2 Single Check Rebate on Centrum (limit 2)
$5 or $7 manufacturer coupons

= ChaChing!

4. Tylenol Precise @ Rite Aid -- (priced at $5 ea.)

$5 manufacturer coupon,
Earn $10 +upr wyb $25 Weekend Warrior

= Purchasing 10 boxes became a $20 MM.

3. Airwick Double Dip @ Rite Aid --

Earn $3 +upr wyb $9,
Earn $5 +upr wyb $15,
50% sale,
$4 mq coupons

= Nice mm's and shelves full of Airwick.

2. Nature Made Triple Dip @ Rite Aid --

Buy $30 worth earn $16 +upr weekly,
$10 wyb $30/$20 wyb $50 Heart Healthy,
$20 wyb $100 Winter Rewards
Several high value mq's
Nature Made VV

= Nice mm's.

1. Covergirl Makeup --

$8/2 manufacturer coupon,
Buy One Get One 50% off sales,
$10 Pink rebate wyb $50,
$10 Giftcard wyb $30 @ CVS (limit 5),
Beauty Club @ CVS,
$5 +upr wyb $25 @ Rite Aid,
Free Taylor Swift merchandise @ Rite Aid

= A few weeks of mega moneymaking makeup.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

2011 in Review | Top 5 Savings Programs

2011-12-31T13:47:00.000-06:00

2011 saw the roll out and/or continuation of several money-saving and in some cases money-making programs. Here's to hoping we see them in 2012!

5. Swag Bucks are reward points that you win searching the internet, watching videos, completing surveys, voting in daily polls, entering swagcodes, printing coupons and inviting your friends.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up with Swag Bucks and start earning. Now through 12/31 enter code "HOLIDAYSWAG" at sign up and instantly earn an extra 100 Swagbucks.

4. Mypoints -- I've been a member for more years than I can remember. Earn points for shopping, reading emails, redeeming coupons, and answering surveys.

I am currently saving up points for a Rainforest Cafe gift card for our next Walt Disney World vacation.

3. SavingStar, which allows you to save on your groceries with little to no effort! It is a new eCoupon service that's totally paperless - so there's nothing to clip or print. Best of all, you can still use your regular manufacturer coupons.

Get over 30 eCoupons worth over $50 saved directly to your store loyalty cards such as CVS, Rite Aid, and Winn Dixie!Click Here to sign up now.

2. Diabetes Wellness Program @ Rite Aid -- More free money for things we were already buying. Earn $10 for every $50 of eligible diabetes products or supplies.

1. Beauty Club @ CVS -- Can you say free money?

The free membership includes:

10% off beauty shopping pass upon enrollment
$5 in ExtraBucks rewards with every $50 beauty purchase made
$3 in ExtraBucks rewards on the member’s birthday as well as special beauty offers throughout the year

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

2011 in Review | Top 10 Favorite Savings Blogs

2011-12-31T10:05:00.000-06:00

There are several blogs and forums that I visit on a daily basis. I want to extend a personal "Thank You" to all the people who post the hot deals.

Here are a list of my top 10 favorite sites or blogs to find hot deals and matchups (in no particular order).

A Full Cup

Slickdeals

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

It's Mega Swagbucks Day! (12/30)

2011-12-30T08:33:00.000-06:00

What are Swag Bucks and how do I win them?

Once I win them, what do I do with them?

Once you win them, you cash them in for awesome prizes in the Swag Store or to enter Swagstakes. For example, redeem just 450 Swag bucks for a $5 Amazon gift code or 700 for $5 deposited to your Paypal account.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up with Swag Bucks and start earning. Now through 12/31 enter code "HOLIDAYSWAG" at sign up and instantly earn an extra 100 Swagbucks.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I receive a small amount of points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Complimentary 7 Day Fitness Pass

2011-12-29T17:07:00.000-06:00

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Upcoming Savings on Kashi Products

2011-12-29T09:24:00.000-06:00

We absolutely love Kashi products in our house, so whenever there is a sale -- we stock up. Rite Aid will have Kashi cereal and bars for $2.99 each starting 1/8.

(Click image for more Rite Aid deals @ weusecoupon.com)

Add to the savings by using a manufacturer coupon.

Join Recyclebank and redeem 75 points for a $2 off any Kashi product that you can print from your home computer.

If you haven't heard of Recyclebank before, it is a free program that rewards you for green activities.

You can easily earn points by taking quizzes and making green pledges. Recycling a Kashi cereal box will earn you 50 pts.

You can also print these manufacturer coupons from coupons.com to go along with the sale:

$1.00 off Kashi GOLEAN Cereal

$1.00 off Kashi GOLEAN Crisp! cereal

$1.00 off one Kashi Soft n Chewy bar

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

7 More Saving Star eCoupons (12/29)

2011-12-29T08:17:00.000-06:00

There are 7 more new SavingStar e-coupons to activate to your account.

New to SavingStar?

Save $2.00 on the January issue of Essence Magazine.Expires 1/31/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 box of Lipton® Tea (100 count or larger), Save $1.00.Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Buy any (1) Dean's® Dip 12 oz or larger, Save 75¢.Expires 1/12/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Karo® Syrup, Save 40¢.Expires 1/31/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Fleischmann's® Yeast (Jar or Strip), Save 40¢.Expires 1/31/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Argo® or Kingsford's® product, Save 40¢.Expires 1/31/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Dove® Men+Care(TM) Body and Face Wash (13.5 oz. or larger), Save $1.00.Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Coupon Matchups | Winn Dixie 12/28-1/3

2011-12-28T12:05:00.000-06:00

Here are some good deals for the week 12/28-1/3 at Winn Dixie that I will be adding to my personal shopping list.

Bear in mind that you need a Fuel Perks card to get the sale prices and to earn fuel perks discounts.

Don't have one? Read Winn Dixie's FAQ's about the FuelPerks program.

GROCERY

Chex Mix or Bugles 7.5-8.75oz BOGO @ $2.79
50¢/1 Chocolate Chex Mix 12/11 SS exp. 2/4/2012

Pay $1.79/2 or 90¢ a bag

Margaret Holmes Vegetables 14.5-15oz @ $1.00
75¢/2 Margaret Holmes Products 12/04 SS exp. 4/15/2012

Pay $1.25/2 or 63¢ a can

Mt. Olive Pickles or Relish, 16oz BOGO @ $3.29
¢$1.00 any Mt. Olive product 12/11 SS exp. 1/15/2012

Pay $1.29/2 or 65¢ a jar

Health & Beauty

Osteo Bi-Flex, 30-100ct BOGO @ $19.99
$7.00/1 any Osteo Bi-Flex caplet, softgel, or powder 01/01/12 RP exp. 2/14/2012
Pay $5.99/2 or $3.00 ea.

Fuelperks Bonus Rewards

Crest Complete (if included) @ $2.79
$2.00/1 any Crest Complete 9/11 SS exp. 12/31
Pay 79¢ and Earn 5¢ Fuelperks

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Product Review | Greased Lightning

2011-12-27T15:30:00.000-06:00

I admit that I make a lot of admissions to you dear readers here on Keeping Your Cents. I'm sure that some of them might make us both blush at times, but this is one that I think might surprise some of you.

As a working mom of three I hate to clean! Oh my goodness. That felt so naughty, and yet, on some levels so freeing to say that.

Things have to be mighty bad for me to pick up the mop and broom. On rare occasions when I do clean, I want it me be as quick and as painless as possible. My cleaner has to get the job done efficiently on its own because momma doesn't like to add a lot of elbow grease to the equation.

Usually around the children's school vacations, we plan a camping trip with several of our friends and my family members. This year we are heading out to a great state park and enjoying nature.

No camping trip just happens though. There are a boat load of things on my to-do list and the majority of them center on cleaning.

Want to see the tough job that was on my to-do list before we headed on our family camping trip?

I won't scare you with the items needing to be cleaned on the inside. Just take my word that it is only slightly better than the outside.

So when I was sent a full-sized bottle of Greased Lightning Multi-Purpose Cleaner & Degreaser, I was really excited to give it a try.

My first thought was heading to the camper for some really tough jobs.

Here is a shot of the spot test that I did. I honestly just sprayed a spot, waited a few seconds, and wiped it off.

Success!

I ran inside and got my hubby to tell him about my brand new bottle of Greased Lightning and how awesome it worked on the camper. He seemed impressed and only complained a little bit when I asked him to wash the rest of the camper. Lol!

I found myself walking through the house with my Greased Lightning looking for other stuff to clean. How sick is it that I actually want to clean. Wow! This stuff is powerful.

Greased Lightning Super Strength can help you survive those everyday messes during the holidays, like drink spills on your carpet, day-old food residue on your kitchen counter and even grass stains from the family football game!

Great for surfaces in every part of your house and even for stain removal, Greased Lightning is a multi-purpose cleaner and degreaser that removes grease and grime, laundry and carpet stains, soap scum, and much more.

* Disclosure: I received a bottle of Greased Lightning to review through Mom Spark Media. However, the views expressed are 100% mine.

This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Restaurant.com Savings

2011-12-22T12:16:00.000-06:00

There is still time to purchase Restaurant.com gift certificates for just $1 with the code JOY through December 24th. Early when the deal was announced it crashed the site, but it should be working currently.

Restaurant.com offers fantastic savings on vouchers that can be used at select restaurants in Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin, Downtown Disney, and area Orlando restaurants.

We have personally used these vouchers on many of our trips and have had no problem with redemption. Read each voucher carefully for limitations and restrictions.

House of Blues @ Downtown Disney
Garden Grove @ WDW Swan and Dolpin
II Mulino New York Trattoria @ WDW Swan and Dolpin
Shula's Steak House @ WDW Swan & Dolpin
Todd English's bluezoo @ WDW Swan & Dolphin

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Mission: Impossible -- Ghost Protocol

2011-12-22T08:35:00.000-06:00

Get ready for action, adventure, and explosive entertainment like you’ve never seen it before! Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to check out Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol in IMAX theatres.

Starting December 16th, a full five days before its North American premier, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol will be shown in a mind-blowing IMAX experience(<-- preview trailer) in 300 theatres across the country.

Join Ethan Hunt and his team of rogue IMF agents, in this awesome spy adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With 30-minutes of scenes shot with IMAX cameras, fans will be able to enjoy certain sequences of the movie in larger than life proportions. You will be right in the action as Ethan Hunt (played by Tom Cruise) scales the world’s tallest building; the Burk Khalifa Tower in Dubai, as this and other thrilling moments expand to fit the entire IMAX screen.

As an added bonus, IMAX will offer the first previews of the upcoming Batman film, The Dark Knight Rises, prior to Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol.

Be sure to like IMAX on Facebook to keep up to date on exciting new releases.

* Dislosure: This information was provided by IMAX through MyBlogSpark. This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

New Saving Star eCoupons 12/22

2011-12-22T07:44:00.001-06:00

There are 10 new SavingStar e-coupons to activate to your account.

New to SavingStar?

Below each image is a list of manufacturer coupons that may be used with the e-coupon from SavingStar for even more savings.

New SavingStar Grocery eCoupons

Save $1.00 when you buy two (2) LAY'S® Kettle Cooked potato chips (8.5oz or larger).Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Save $2.00 when you buy two (2) LIPTON® 12-packs (any flavors or varieties).Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Buy (1) McCain Purely Potatoes®, Save $1.00.Expires 2/1/2012.One time use only.

Buy (1) McCain® Sweet Potato Fries, Save $1.00.Expires 2/1/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Truvia® Natural Sweetener (40 ct or larger), Save 75¢.Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 GUM® Crayola Kids® Toothbrush, Save 50¢.Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Wet Ones® Wipes Product (Canisters or Singles), Credit 75¢.Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Playtex® Gentle Glide® 360°TM tampons or Playtex® Sport® tampons, Credit $1.00.Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 Schick HydroTM Shave Gel, Credit 75¢.Expires 1/18/2012.One time use only.

Buy 1 package of Scott® Bath Tissue 12+ Rolls Save, $1.00.Expires 1/4/2012.One time use only.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

The Social Picnic | $500 Cash Giveaway

2011-11-16T00:01:00.000-06:00

The 3rd edition of the Social Picnic event is finally here, hosted by This Lil Piglet and Family Approve.

To enter the giveaway, the Rafflecopter giveaway form will be located on participating blogs November 8 - 12:01 AM EST - 16th 12:01 AM EST.

All entries in the form below support all the participating blogs, please bookmark this giveaway page, write down where you ended off your entries to make it easier to enter all ways possible over the next 7 days, plenty of time to get ALL entries.

We have limited the number of links/entries for each participating blog to make it easier on everyone however we suggest keeping track to make sure you don't repeat entries. Duplicates are always deleted prior to selecting the winning entry.

Please read all Rules, Regulations and Tips below before asking questions.

Giveaway Total Prize Pack Value $920

**If you like this event and want to participate in something similar where prizes are provided and all the work is done for you, check out the Ultimate Gamer event here (sign ups close on the 10th) or if you are looking to find your own sponsor packages and join a hop event, consider Blog Bash Christmas here.**

Enter to win...

1. $500 US Cash via PayPal

Provided by This Lil Piglet and Family Approve

2. Linksys E4200 Wireless Router - $180 Value

Sponsored by Cisco

3. Favi Wireless Mini Keyboard - Value $50

Sponsored by Favi Entertainment

3. Magnavox 19-Inch 720p LCD HDTV - Value $190

Provided by This Lil Piglet and Family Approve

Rules and Regulations of the giveaway:

1. Each entry gains you one entry towards the winning prizes

2. The winning entry will be checked to ensure they have complied with their entry. If it is found that the winning entry has not completed the entry requirement, a different winner will be selected.

3.The $500 Cash prize is open Worldwide. The remainder of the prizes are open to US and Canada residents only. One winner will be chosen and will win ALL prizes. If the chosen winner is located outside the US & Canada, they will win the cash prize only and a second winner will be chosen for the other prizes.

Tips: If you've never used Rafflecopter before, it's an easy way to enter giveaway's. Keep in mind that Rafflecopter is run using Javascript so you must enable javascript on your computer to use. If you are having trouble, try a different browser or make sure you have updated your computer and browser. If you notice that an entry you already completed now says that you did not, unless it's the mandatory entry don't worry about it. Rafflecopter is run on your browser cache; when your browser cache clears so does the saved completed entries in the rafflecopter widget only. This does not mean your entries were not recorded; they were recorded into the giveaway database. If you want to keep track, write where you left off or completed down for referrence later or if you aren't sure, redo the entry altogether. If there are duplicates, we will delete them prior to selecting the winning entry. Some blogs provided direct links to their GFC however some did not. Please note that the GFC (Google Friend Connect) widget doesn't always work properly, at no fault to the blog; if you cannot follow this way, please it write down to return later for that extra entry. The more ways you enter, the more chances you have of winning.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Product Review | The Slice Safety Cutter

2011-11-14T18:53:00.000-06:00

Hello, my name is desiab and I am a coupon addict! That is an admission I make freely and happily to anyone that will listen.

Lately my coupon addiction has left me overloaded with too many coupon inserts stacked up on the table. The husband and children graciously offer to help me clip my lovely money-saving slips of gold. But my coupons are precious to me and cutting them precisely is not to be taken lightly.

When the lovely folks at Tomoson.com asked me to test out the new Slice Safety Cutter, I immediately thought about my coupon hoard. I would be able to put my nifty new cutter to the ultimate test.

Could it tackle my stack of coupons?

I am happy to report that it did. While I had to be careful not to stack to many together at one time, the Slice Safety Cutter handled it like a pro.

Another nice thing about the Slice Safety Cutter is it can easily and safely be thrown in my purse or coupon binder.

Be sure to check out all the latest information about the Slice Safety Cutter and any new products introduced on their Facebook page.

* This post may include referral links and by clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Made With Love Giveaway Event

2011-11-13T07:01:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the Made With Love Event hosted by The Reynolds Mom and Seventeen Sirens!

This event features at least $25 or more in handmade prizes on each of the participating blogs. This event will close on November 13th at Midnight EST.

Enter to win the fabulous prize pack here on Keeping Your Cents. Then be sure to go through the linky below and enter on the 100+ blogs listed for your chance to win!

Happy Hopping!

Prize Pack sponsored by Crafter's Boutique

Enter to win a digital prize pack from Crafter's Boutique. Each piece has been created at 300 dpi for optimal print quality.

* Please note that all digital products are for personal, non-commercial use.

Included in the Book of Me Prize Pack:

31-Day Book of Me Challenge Series
32 Digital 12x12 Scrapbook Templates
Book of Me Digital Scrapbooking Kit
Book of Me Digital Add-Ons

Enter to win by filling out our Rafflecopter form located below.

* Please note that Mardesia, owner of Keeping Your Cents, The Reynolds Mom, Seventeen Sirens, Made With Love Events or the Made With Love Giveaway Event bloggers in the hop are not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes.

We have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prize and in a timely manner. The sponsors, in most cases, are shipping their items to you directly. We will make every effort to assist you obtaining your prize to the best of our ability.

Also, I did not receive any financial compensation for this review, though I did review a sample of the products for evaluation purposes. The opinions are based only on my and my families experiences with the product.This post may include affiliate or referral links.

This Giveaway is not affiliated with, associated with or promoted by Facebook.

Black Friday Blogger Event

2011-11-13T00:01:00.000-06:00

It's THAT time of year again! Time for you to spend LOTS of money that you just don't have! We're here to make it a bit easier for you.

This Sweepstakes is hosted by Freetail Therapy so make sure to hop on over there to enter for the Grand Prize of a $100 Amazon Gift Card, and Thank Her for putting this together!

The giveaway runs from 11:00pm cst November 13th to 10:59pm cst November 25th and is open to US residents 18 years of age or older. One winner will be chosen by random.org on or about August 20th. You will be contacted by email and must respond with your contact information within 48 hours or an alternate winner will be chosen.

* Please note that Mardesia, owner of Keeping Your Cents, "Black Friday Blogger Giveaway" or the other bloggers in the hop are not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. We have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prize and in a timely manner. The sponsors, in most cases, are shipping their items to you directly. We will make every effort to assist you obtaining your prize to the best of our ability.

This post may include affiliate or referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small reward of cash and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards.

Also, I did not receive any financial compensation for this review, though I did review a sample of the products for evaluation purposes. The opinions are based only on my and my families experiences with the product.

Book Review | A Different Kind of Hero

2011-11-09T08:49:00.000-06:00

A Different Kind of Hero written by Leah Beth Evans and illustrated by Colleen Gedrich.

Synopsis: "The rainforest is under attack.
One monkey is determined to save it.
His name is Tomagochi.

He’s brown.
He’s small.
He’s plain.

But when a group of men enters the rainforest armed with bulldozers and axes, Tomagochi the monkey springs into action to defend his natural habitat.

While larger animals like Peshe the tiger run and hide, Tomagochi charges into battle.

Will he be victorious?
Will the rainforest be saved?

Join Tomagochi as he fights to protect his home and discovers just how special he truly is."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I was born the middle child of three; older sister, younger brother. My sister and I are polar opposites in temperment, personality, and the like. She's reserved and quiet to my sometimes brash and larger than life persona. So for some reason once I hit my teenage years I fell into the role of protector, her hero if you will. She didn't honestly need my protection, but at times I mistakenly saw her mildness and lack of strength.

In later years, we purchased homes in the same town on the same street. The proximity still allowed me to feel like I was helping to watch over her.

Through a unique mix of unfortunate circumstances, my sister and I were involved in an automobile accident in March of 2000. When the tumble of metal settled, the SUV was resting on the passenger side where I lay unconscious. My sister was badly shaken, but thankfully completely unharmed.

In the few conversations we have been able to have about the accident over the last 10 years, my sister says that she was momentarily paralyzed by fear. As has been the case in times past, she was looking to me to decide what should be done next and I wasn't able to tell her. The decision on how to proceed would have to be made by her. Somewhere she found the strength to climb up and jump out of the car onto the highway to get help.

For many weeks, my sister slept on the floor next to my marital bed. She was the second person I saw when my eyes opened every morning.

When the surgeries, therapy and hospital stays were mostly done, I remember lying in bed thinking back to that day and the ones that followed. All along things were just the opposite of what I believed. My sister had and still is watching over me; protecting me.

Being a hero in my life.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Leah Beth Evans's Bio:

Leah Beth Evans was inspired to write her story as a 4th grade student after studying about the rainforest. She continues to enjoy writing stories and poetry. However, her story A Different Kind of Hero has always been one of her favorites. Visit Leah on Facebook

Visit Leah Beth Evans through one of her social media links:

Colleen Gedrich's Bio:

Colleen, a lifelong resident Throop, PA, earned a BFA in illustration from Marywood University in 2002. Since that time, she has worked part-time as a freelance illustrator specializing in animal-themed work. She enjoys creating her art using mostly watercolor and pastel.

As a dedicated animal rights activist and full-time program coordinator for International Society for Animal Rights (ISAR), Colleen lives her dream of joining her passions for animals and art to promote a more harmonious world with a touch of beauty. Recent works produced by Colleen include t-shirt and invitation designs, children’s book illustrations, and book covers. Colleen has also teamed up with her very talented artist mother, Kathy Holmes Gedrich, and paints murals for children’s nurseries.

Visit Tribute Book through one of their social media links:

* This post may include referral links and by clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Book Review | Slippery Willie's Stupid, Ugly Shoes

2011-11-07T07:33:00.000-06:00

Willie Wiggles hates his slippery feet. He just slips, slides and spins all over the place. But what he hates even more are the special shoes that have been made for him that will help him to walk just like all the other kids. Willie thinks that they are the "stupidest, ugliest shoes in the whole world."

* * * * * * * * * *
Most people will be able to relate to the message in Slippery Willie's Stupid, Ugly Shoes by Larry Peterson.

For most of my adult life I would say that I have worn my hair in a socially acceptable way. Recently I decided to make a change to something a little more natural that my husband really liked. My hair was finished, I rode home and then the doubt set in. Looking in the mirror I felt like I had the stupidest, ugliest hair in the whole world.

I work at an elementary school and the children can at times be merciless with the teasing. Was I setting myself up for being teased?

So the next morning, instead of being confident in my choice I made the decision to wear a scarf. Every day for a week I wore a different scarf to match my outfits. Finally my husband questioned me as to why I was hiding my cute hair under scarves.

It took his questions and reassurances to make me take off the scarves and go to work with my new hairdo. The funny thing was nobody was laughing and pointing. Everywhere I went the kids told me how cool my hair was and how much they liked the style.

A week spent worrying myself to death for nothing!

In Slippery Willie's Stupid, Ugly Shoes, discover how sometimes we worry about things about ourselves when actually there is nothing to worry about in the first place.

Watch the YouTube video book trailer above.

Read an excerpt from Slippery Willie's Stupid, Ugly Shoes on Freado.

Also, go to the Slippery Willie blog to share your thoughts and ideas on accepting the differences of others.

Author Bio:
Larry Peterson was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. As a freelancer, he has written many newspaper columns for local publications. Slippery Willie's Stupid, Ugly Shoes is his first children’s book. Peterson has lived in Pinellas Park, Florida for the past 28 years.

Visit Tribute Book through one of their social media links:

* This post may include referral links and by clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Cheap Kashi @ CVS starting 11/6

2011-11-05T09:04:00.000-05:00

Kashi is part of the buy $30, Get $10 Giftcard at CVS starting Sunday, November 11.

Buy (2) Kashi TLC bars 6ct. $6

Buy (1) Kashi TLC Pita crackers; 9 oz $3

Use (3) $2 Recyclebank Kashi Coupons

Plus activate both of the Kashi Coupons on SavingStar for an additional $2.50 back.

Net cost of 50¢ for all three items and $9 towards a $10 giftcard.

Buy 2 boxes of Kashi® TLC® Granola Bars, Save $1.50.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 1 box of Kashi® TLC® Pita Crisps, Save $1.00.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

CVS Black Friday Coupons

2011-11-05T07:53:00.000-05:00

Looking ahead at the CVS Black Friday ad there are a few coupons you might want to print now for maximum savings.

$0.30 off Original Carmex Lip Balm

GET COUPON

Earn $1.00 ECB wyb Select Carmex 0.15-0.35 oz

Sale price $1.00 (Limit 1 deal per card)

$0.30 MM after coupon and ECB!

$1.00 off 2 General Mills Kids cereals

GET COUPON

Earn $2.00 ECB wyb General Mills Chex, Cinnamon Toast Crunch or Total 10.6-14oz

Sale price $2.87 (Limit 1 deal per card)

2 for $2.74 after coupon and ECB

* This post may include referral links and by clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

More SavingStar e-Coupons to Activate

2011-11-05T06:22:00.000-05:00

There are 15 new SavingStar e-coupons to activate to your account.

New to SavingStar?

Get over 30 eCoupons worth over $50 saved directly to your store loyalty cards!Click Here to sign up now.

Also be sure to print manufacturer coupons on Keeping Your Cents from the Coupon Network & Redplum.

Below each image is a list of manufacturer coupons that may be used with the e-coupon from SavingStar for even more savings.

New SavingStar Grocery eCoupons

Buy 1 YoBaby Organic Yogurt 4-pack, Save 50¢.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy three (3) 6 oz. cups of Stonyfield Organic Yogurt, Save 50¢.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 1 box of Kashi® TLC® Pita Crisps, Save $1.00.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 2 boxes of Kashi® TLC® Granola Bars, Save $1.50.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 1 Marie's® Product, Save $1.00.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 1 Gold 'n Soft®, Save 50¢.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 1 LouAna® Oil, Save 50¢.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy ONE (1) box of Ellio's® Pizza, Save 50¢.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy ONE (1) HUGGIES® Little Movers Slip-On Diapers, Save $2.00.Expires 12/1/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 2 HUGGIES® Baby Wipes (64 ct or larger), Save $1.00.Expires 12/1/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 1 Vitamin Gummies in Disney or Marvel Shapes, Save $1.00.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy any 1 Osteo Bi-Flex, Save $1.00.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy any 1 Ester-C, Save $1.00.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 1 L'Oréal Vive Pro Shampoo or Conditioner, Save 75¢.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

Buy 1 L'Oréal Studio Line Styling Product, Save $1.00.Expires 11/30/2011.One time use only.

GET COUPON

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Mega Swagbucks Friday Again! (10/28)

2011-10-28T09:55:00.000-05:00

It's that time again Swaggernauts -- Mega Swag Bucks Friday! So get those fingers a working to search, search, search.

What are Swag bucks and how do I win them?

Put simply, Swag bucks are reward points that you win searching the internet, watching videos, completing surveys, voting in daily polls, entering swagcodes, printing coupons and inviting your friends.

Once I win them, what do I do with them?

Once you win them, you cash them in for awesome prizes in the Swag Store or to enter Swagstakes.

For example, redeem just 450 Swag bucks for a $5 Amazon gift code or 700 for $5 deposited to your Paypal account.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up with Swag bucks and start earning.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I receive a small amount of points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

3 Yrs of Shape Magazine $12

2011-10-28T08:39:00.000-05:00

Here is a great deal on Shape Magazine.

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.

Pillsbury Breakfast Prize Pack

2011-10-27T18:08:00.000-05:00

Weekday mornings can seem like a balancing act. Between scrambling to get yourself ready and the kids dressed for school, it can be a challenge to fit in a good, hot breakfast that will set you up for a good day. Now Pillsbury is bringing your weekend favorites to the weekday breakfast table with new Pillsbury Grands! Biscuit Sandwiches and Pillsbury Egg Scrambles.

Available in your grocer’s freezer, Pillsbury Grands! Biscuit Sandwiches and Pillsbury Egg Scrambles heat up in minutes in the microwave.

Made with quality ingredients like fluffy real egg, tasty meat, cheese, Grands! Biscuits and Green Giant® vegetables, the new line of quick and delicious frozen breakfast dishes comes in six flavorful choices:

Sausage & Cheese Biscuit Sandwich
Bacon & Cheese Biscuit Sandwich
Ham & Veggies Biscuit Sandwich
Bacon & Veggies Egg Scrambles
Sausage Egg Scrambles
Sausage & Veggies Egg Scrambles

Start your morning off right with these satisfying, hot and tasty breakfast options and share your tips for a great day ahead!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

With the early morning work schedules of my husband and I, the kids eat their breakfast at school. Because of that we miss the fun of eating our breakfast favorites during the week.

At my house, the quickest way to get my children excited about dinner is to tell them we are having breakfast. So today I surprised them by announcing on the way home that we were trying the new Pillsbury Egg Scrambles for dinner.

We selected the Pillsbury Sausage & Veggies Egg Scrambles to sample. The Scrambles paired with toasted cinnamon raisin bagels, fresh fruit, and milk made a breakfast/dinner the kids were excited about.

Enter now to win a Pillsbury Breakfast Prize Pack.

Your prize pack will contain:

3 coupons to purchase a free package of new Pillsbury Grands! Biscuit Sandwiches or Pillsbury Egg Scrambles
Doughboy Keychain
Doughboy Beanie Doll

"Disclosure: The VIP coupons, prize pack, information, and giveaway have been provided by Pillsbury through MyBlogSpark."

Glitter Toes Party Kit

2011-10-27T17:34:00.000-05:00

Be the popular hostess with a Glitter Toes Party!

Through this exclusive offer you can get the complete Glitter Toes Party Kit for only $39! With this fantastic deal you will get a one year supply of Glitties nail art.

That's 12 colors, 13 applications, pedi/mani brush, file, and more for one really low price! 65% off retail! Plus, as an added bonus Glitties is throwing in for FREE an extra bottle of bonding and a bottle of sealing that typically retails for $20.

While the men are gathered to watch football after your holiday dinner why not gather the girls for a fun pedicure party with this Glitter Toes Party Kit? It's sure to be the hit of the party!

Product Details:
12 glitter colors per kit
Lasts up to six weeks on toes
Easily comes off with fingernail polish remover
Pedi/Mani brush, file, base & more
Bonus: 1 bottle of bonding, 1 bottle of sealing
No UV light required
Patent Pending

*Deal ends on Saturday, October 29th at 11:59pm MST
*Orders open to US mailing addresses only
*All orders will be postmarked within 72 hours (working business days) of the conclusion of the deal

Watch the Glitties YouTube Video:

* This post may include referral links. By clicking on those links I may receive a small amount of money and/or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.