Fresh Food Deals: Eat Healthy & Save Money (Week of 3/10/13)

The following grocery deals are for the Dayton, OH and surrounding areas. If you spot a great deal on fresh/natural/organic foods or find a new printable coupon, be sure to let me know so I can spread the word. This is a weekly feature that will be posted on Mondays or Tuesdays, whenever time permits. Some prices are weekly advertised prices and others are unadvertised sales with varying end dates.

KROGER

Weekly Advertised Deals for March 11-17

$1.87 Navel Oranges, 4 lb. bag
$.69 Texas Sweet Onions
$.99 Avocados ($1.19 Organic)
$1.69 Grape Tomatoes (Organic)
$1.49 Tasti-Lee Tomatoes, 1 lb.
$1.50 Dole or Fresh Selections Salad
$1.69 Asparagus
$3.99 Fuji Apples, 5 lb. bag
$.99 Jumbo Cantaloupe
$.89/lb. Apples (Gala, Granny Smith, Red or Golden Delicious)

MORE UNADVERTISED PRODUCE DEALS BELOW!

$2.79 Kashi Cereal [Buy 4, Get FREE milk]
-$1 coupon HERE (select varieties)

$1.25 Pepp. Farm Goldfish Crackers
$5.99 Kroger Coffee, 26-34.5 oz.
3/$5 Ragu Pasta Sauce (check label for HFCS, etc.)
$1.89 Mom's Best Naturals Cereal (Sweetened Wheat-Fuls are BETTER than Kellogg's Mini-Wheats!)
$2.99 Wonderful Pistachios, 8 oz.
$1.00 Annie's Mac-n-Cheese ($.65 w/coupon!)

-$.35 coupon HERE

$6.99/lb. T-bone Steaks*

$3.79/lb. Ground Round*
$2.49/lb. Bone-in Pork Chops*
$2.99/lb. Honeysuckle Ground Turkey, 1.2 lb.*

$2.99/lb. Bottom Round Roast*

$1/lb. Kroger Value Chicken Drumsticks or Thighs*

$.99/lb. Tyson Split Chicken Breasts*

$2.99/lb. Kroger Corned Beef*

$2.99 Simple Truth Organic Milk, half gallon
$2.50 Simple Truth Almond Milk or Soy Milk, half gallon
$2.50 Kraft or Sargento Cheese 5-8 oz.*
$2.99 Kroger Cheese, 16 oz.* (Amazing price!!)
$2.50 Land O' Lakes Butter Quarters, 1 lb.*

-$.50 off tear pad coupon near item

*Local, organic, pastured meat, poultry and dairy products are the healthiest choice if you can work them into your budget. I have provided the prices listed above for those who are interested in conventional meat/dairy; however, we prefer to get our beef, chicken and eggs from local farmers or we opt for organic store varieties when necessary.

Unadvertised Temporary Price Drops and New Lower Prices

$2.00 Strawberries

$.69 Green Peppers (Organic $.69)
$2.99 Blueberries, 11 oz bigger container

$2.69 Cascadian Farm Organic Frozen Veggies
$2.77 Simple Truth Organic Frozen Fruit

$2.99 Alexia Organic French Fries and other varieties
-$1.00 Kroger Plus eCoupon HERE
TOO MANY NATURAL FROZEN FOOD PRICE REDUCTIONS TO LIST!

$1.20 Simple Truth Organic Half n Half
$1.99 Daisy Sour Cream, 16 oz. (rBST free)
$4.29 Horizon Organic Butter Quarters, 1 lb.

$.80 Stonyfield Organic Yogurt Blends ($.30 w/coupon!)
-$.50/3 coupon HERE
-$.50/1 coupon HERE
10/$10 Brown Cow Greek Yogurt, 6 oz.*
-$.50/2 coupon HERE

$3.00 Garden of Eatin' Tortilla Chips

$3.38 King Arthur Flour, 5 lb.
$2.59 Simple Truth Organic Honey, 12 oz.
$2.29 Simple Truth Organic Sugar, 24 oz.
$2.69 Simple Truth Organic Brown Sugar, 24 oz.
$1.19 Simple Truth Rolled Oats, 16 oz.
$2.23 Simple Truth Steel Cut Oats, 16 oz.
$3.00 Muir Glen Organic Pasta Sauce
$1.29 Simple Truth Organic Pasta, 16 oz.
$.79 Simple Truth Organic Tomato Paste, 6 oz.
$1.19 Simple Truth Organic Tomato Sauce, 15 oz.
$2.79 Seeds of Change Rice Blends ($1.29 w/coupon!)
-$1 off coupon HERE
-$1.50/1 coupon HERE
$2.89 Back to Nature Crackers

$2.69 Krema Natural Peanut Butter

$3.99 Simple Truth Organic Peanut Butter

10/$10 Larabars

-$.75/2 Kroger Plus eCoupon (see link below)

-$.75/2 printable coupon HERE

$4.09 Annie's Homegrown Bunny Snacks
-$.75 coupon HERE
$2.54 Annie's Homegrown Crackers or Cookies ($1.79 w/coupon!)
-$.75 coupon HERE

DOWNLOAD COUPONS TO YOUR PLUS CARD AND SAVE $$ INSTANTLY! Click HERE to sign-up or sign-in and the electronic coupons will come off automatically at the register.

 

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MEIJER

Weekly Advertised Deals for March 10-16

$1.50 Strawberries, 16 oz.
$.09/lb. Cabbage
$2.50 Earthbound Farm Organic Salad ($.50 after coupons!)
-$.75 coupon HERE (good on ANY EBF product--print by 3/11!)
-$1 mPerks coupon HERE **COMBINE W/MANF. COUPON!**
$1.25 Artichokes
$2.00 Lemons or Limes, 2 lb. bag
$1.25 Red, Yellow or Orange Bell Peppers
$.59/lb. Organic Bananas
$.89 Broccoli
$2.00 Baby Cut Carrots (2 lb.) or Red Potatoes (5 lb.)
$.89 Yellow Onions, 3 lb. bag

$1.79/lb Meijer Chicken Thighs*
$1.99/lb. Fresh Pork Spareribs*
$4.49/lb. Boneless Top Round Roasts or Family Pk. Steaks*
$2.99/lb. Ground Beef from Chuck*
$7.99/lb. Boneless Strip Steaks*
$2.47/lb. USDA Choice Flat Cut Corned Beef Brisket*
$2.47/lb. Boneless Center Cut Pork Loin Chops*
$9.99/lb. Wild Caught Walleye or Perch Fillets

$4.99/lb. Deli Case Swiss, Colby Jack or Mozzerella Cheese*
$3.99 Salemville Blue Cheese or Gorgonzola Cheese, 4 oz.*
$3.99 King's Choice Imported Havarti Cheese, 7 oz.*
$3.99 Apple Smoked Cheddar Cheese, 8 oz.*
$4.99 Kerrygold Irish Cheddar, 7 oz.*
$1.88 Meijer Chunk Cheese, 8 oz.*
$1.00 Muller, Fage or Fruyo Greek Yogurt, 5.3-7 oz.*
-BOGO Muller mPerks coupon HERE
$3.50 Dannon Oikos Greek Yogurt, 32 oz.

$.99 Meijer Frozen Vegetables or Steamables
3/$10 MorningStar Farms Products

$1.25 StarKist Solid White Tuna

5/$5 Barilla Pasta

$1.25 Red Gold Tomatoes, 28 oz.

$2.50 Ocean Spray 100% Juice, 64 oz. bottle
$2.50 Chi-Chi's Salsa, 24 oz.
$.79 Meijer Beans, 15 oz. can (these have added "stuff")
$1.50 Ragu Pasta Sauce (check label for HFCS, etc.)
-$1/2 mPerks coupon HERE

*Local, organic, pastured meat, poultry and dairy products are the healthiest choice if you can work them into your budget. I have provided the prices listed above for those who are interested in conventional meat/dairy; however, we prefer to get our beef, chicken and eggs from local farmers or we opt for organic store varieties when necessary.

Unadvertised Temporary Price Drops

$4.89 Sunbutter Sunflower Seed Spread
-$1 coupon HERE
$2.50 Florida Crystals Natural Sugar ($1.50 after coupon!)
-$.55 off coupon HERE
$3.29 Lay's Natural Chips & Snacks (these are in the GF section at our store)
$3.21 Meijer Organics Pure Vanilla Extract, 2 oz.
$2.50 Ghirardelli Chocolate Chips
$3.00 Ghirardelli Chocolate Baking Bars
$2.69 Daisy Cottage Cheese
$3.49 Horizon Organic Milk, 1/2 Gal.
$2.50 Horizon Heavy Whipping Cream, pint
$3.99 Applegate Nitrate Free Hotdogs, 12 oz.
-$1 off coupon HERE

$1.99 Meijer Organics Canned Tomatoes, all varieties 28 oz.
$2.79 Meijer Organics Fruit Spread
$5.39 King Arthur Organic Flours
$4.19 Vermont Organic Applesauce
$3.99 Ezekiel Bread, frozen
$3.49 Gardein products (many had $1 off peelie coupons!)
$2.28 Pacific Foods Organic Cream of Mushroom or Chicken
-$1 off coupon HERE
$2.59 Annie's Homegrown GF Rice Pasta Mac and Cheese
-$.35 coupon HERE

New to mPerks? Get $5 off your total purchase of groceries or general merchandise! Download digital coupons to your account and enter your mobile number at the checkout to automatically receive your discount. Click here for all the details. I think I am going to sign my husband up, too! Who couldn't use $5 in free groceries?!
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Please DO NOT post these deals on your own blog or website without first getting my permission and then linking back to my site. Reach me via e-mail at these_precious_days@yahoo.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ThesePreciousDays.

Easy Cinnamon Granola

I have a confession to make. Until last week, I had never in my life made granola. I mean seriously...who has made homemade tortillas, her own Thin Mint cookies and bakes bread from scratch--yet has never made granola!? And who starts a Facebook group for natural-living type folks, names it Crunchy Granola Chicks and has never actually made the stuff before? Ha ha! The answer to both of those questions is ME!

This granola is sooo easy that it's embarrassing! I have bought granola and paid $4 a bag for it on more than one occasion. I can't believe that it's really as simple as making Rice Krispie Treats. Mix the wet ingredients, stir in the dry ingredients and put it in the oven. That's it! (For the record, I realize that you don't bake Rice Krispie Treats. Ha!)

I personally eat this deliciousness by the handful. It's also fabulous on a yogurt parfait or as a breakfast cereal with some almond milk on top. My two year old thinks "grow-la" is the best stuff known to man and she asks for it all the time. 

This recipe is slightly sweet, but not overly sweet. It also is more of a loose granola instead of the variety with the big clusters. I used a quarter cup each of almonds, pecans, pumpkin and sunflower seeds. Dried fruit is completely optional, but I used raisins because that is what I had on hand. Have I mentioned how phenomenal my house smelled while this was baking? Mmmm!

Easy Cinnamon Granola

Makes approximately 4 cups

1/2 c. honey
1/4 c. coconut oil, melted (or oil of choice)
3 T. sucanat or brown sugar
1 1/2 t. cinnamon
2 c. rolled oats
2 T. whole wheat flour or oat flour 
1 c. nuts and/or seeds (see ideas below)
1/2. dried fruit--such as cherries, raisins, apricots, blueberries, cranberries, etc.

Mix honey, oil, sucanat, cinnamon and flour in a large bowl. 

Add oats and nuts and stir until thoroughly coated.

Pour mixture onto parchment lined cookie sheet (preferably one with sides) and spread evenly. 

Bake at 300 degrees for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from oven and fold in dried fruit. Allow to cool completely. Granola will crisp up as it cools. Store in an airtight container.

Mix-in Ideas
almonds
pecans
walnuts
pistachios
pumpkin seeds
sesame seeds
flax seeds
chia seeds
sunflower seeds
shredded coconut
wheat germ

What is your favorite way to eat granola? Do you have preferred add-ins such as nuts, seeds, etc?

Kids Eat Free at Bob Evans in March

Last week, Bob Evans announced on their Facebook page that for the month of March, kids (12 and under) will eat free on weekdays between 2 pm and close. One child eats free from the kids' menu with each adult entree purchased. Tuesday nights are still Kids' Nights, with special activities for the family. 

Keep in mind that drinks are not included in the free Bob Evans kids' meals and ordering them would cost extra. We usually save the money and get water for them instead! 

Bob Evans offers a large variety of meals and side dishes for kids, including some healthier options such as grilled chicken, fresh fruit, side salads and steamed broccoli. Breakfast is served all day.

Fresh Food Deals: Eat Healthy & Save Money!

The following grocery deals are for the Dayton, OH and surrounding areas. If you spot a great deal on fresh/natural/organic foods or find a new printable coupon, be sure to let me know so I can spread the word. This is a weekly feature that will be posted on Mondays or Tuesdays, whenever time permits. Some prices are weekly advertised prices and others are unadvertised sales with varying end dates.

KROGER

Weekly Advertised Deals for March 4-10

$2.99 Mandarin Oranges, 3 lb. bag

10/$10 Mini Peeled Carrots ($1.49 organic)

$2.69 Organic Navel Oranges, 4 lb. bag

$1.50 Mushrooms

$3.99 Fuji Apples, 5 lb.

LOTS MORE UNADVERTISED PRODUCE DEALS BELOW!

$2.79 Kashi Cereal [Buy 4, Get FREE milk]
-$1 coupon HERE (select varieties)

$1.25 Chicken of the Sea Tuna

10/$10 Larabars

-$.75/2 Kroger Plus eCoupon (see link below)

-$.75/2 coupon HERE

$1.25 Pepp. Farm Goldfish

$2.50 Kettle Brand Chips

$3.00 Garden of Eatin' Tortilla Chips

$3.00 Muir Glen Organic Salsa

$1.89 Blue Diamond Nut Thins
-$.75/2 coupon HERE
$1.19 Simple Truth Organic Ketchup
 

$5.99/lb. Wild Caught Mahi Fillets

5.99/lb. Strip Steaks*

$2.79/lb. Ground Chuck*

$1.88/lb. Boneless Pork Loin* (most stores will slice for you free!)

$1/lb. Kroger Value Chicken Drumsticks or Thighs*

$1.99 Tyson Boneless Chicken Breasts*

$2.99 Kroger Cheese, 16 oz.*
$2.50 Land O' Lakes Butter Quarters, 1 lb.*

-$.50 off tear pad coupon near item

*Local, organic, pastured meat, poultry and dairy products are the healthiest choice if you can work them into your budget. I have provided the prices listed above for those who are interested in conventional meat/dairy; however, we prefer to get our beef, chicken and eggs from local farmers or we opt for organic store varieties when necessary.

Unadvertised Temporary Price Drops and New Lower Prices

$.99 Idaho Potatoes, 5 lb.

$1.50 Blackberries ($1.29 organic)
$1.49/lb. Seedless Grapes
$2.00 Strawberries

$.69 Green Peppers (Red $.99)
$.99 Avocados

$3.79 Horizon Organic Butter Quarters, 1 lb. (Reg. $5.99!)
$3.69 Private Selection Parmesan Cheese Wedge

10/$10 Brown Cow Greek Yogurt, 6 oz.*
-$.50/2 coupon HERE
$3.29 Stonyfield Farms YoKids Squeezers Yogurt
-$.50/1 printable coupon (resets monthly)
-$1 printable coupon
$2.49 Stonyfield Farms YoBaby Yogurt
-$.50/1 printable coupon (resets monthly)
-$.75 printable coupon

$2.50 Simple Truth Organic Cereal, most varieties

$4.99 Simple Truth Organic Frozen Pizza

$2.49 Mom's Best Naturals Cereal

$2.79 Wild Planet Skipjack Tuna, canned

$2.89 Back to Nature Crackers

$2.69 Krema Natural Peanut Butter

$3.99 Simple Truth Organic Peanut Butter

10/$10 Larabars

-$.75/2 Kroger Plus eCoupon (see link below)

-$.75/2 printable coupon HERE

$3.59 ST Organic Quinoa, 16 oz.

$2.49 Stretch Island Fruit Co. Fruit Leather, 6 ct.

$1.00 Annie's Mac-n-Cheese 

-$.35 coupon HERE

DOWNLOAD COUPONS TO YOUR PLUS CARD AND SAVE $$ INSTANTLY! Click HERE to sign-up or sign-in and the electronic coupons will come off automatically at the register.

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MEIJER

Weekly Advertised Deals for March 3-9

$.89 Yellow Onions, 3 lb. bag
$1.50 Organic Celery Hearts
-$.75/1 coupon HERE (good on any--not just baby kale)

$4.99 Red Grapefruit, 15 lb.
$.89/lb. Green, Red or Black Seedless Grapes
$.89 Broccoli
$1.49/lb. Organic Gala or Fuji Apples
$2.00 Lemons or Limes, 2 lb. bag
$.89/lb. Peaches, Nectarines or Plums
$2.49 Navel Oranges, 5 lb.
$3.49 Organic Navel Oranges, 4 lb.
$1.25 Mann's Snacks on the Go--veggies and dip
$1/2 mPerks coupon*
$3.00 Bolthouse Farms Juice, 32 oz.

$.99/lb Meijer Spilt Chicken Breasts*
$.89/lb. Meijer Whole Roaster Chickens*
$5.49/lb. Top Sirloin Fillet or Petite Roast*
$2.99/lb. Ground Beef from Chuck*
$7.99/lb. Ribeye Steaks*
$1.49/lb. Cook's Shank or Butt Portions Ham*
$1.67/lb. Center Cut Boneless Pork Loin*
$3.99 Oscar Meyer Uncured, Nitrate-Free Bacon*
[Save $7, when you buy 7 eligible products]
-$1/2 printable OM coupon HERE

$1.99 Meijer Milk, gallon (excludes chocolate & organic)*
$3.49 Kraft String Cheese, 12 ct.*
-$1/2 mPerks coupon

$2.50 Meijer Frozen Fruit, most varieties
$3.00 Alexia Frozen Potatoes (check out the new organic fries!)

[Get $1 off instantly when you buy 2, making them $2.50!]
-$1 printable coupon HERE (print 2x)

-$1 printable coupon HERE (print 2x)
Bonus! Get $1 off your next purchase (of anything) checkout coupon!

$3.49 King Arthur Flour, 5 lb.

-$.50 mPerks coupon

$3.00 Maxwell House Coffee

[Get $2 off instantly when you buy 2!]

5/$5 Meijer Canned Fruit in Juice

5/$5 Ronzoni Healthy Harvest Pasta, plus other varieties

$1.69 Meijer Broth or Stock*

$1.25 Dei Fratelli Tomatoes or Sauce, 28 oz.

$2.50 Juice Juice 100% Juice, 64 oz. bottle or 8 ct. boxes

BOGO Pepp. Farm Goldfish Crackers

*Local, organic, pastured meat, poultry and dairy products are the healthiest choice if you can work them into your budget. I have provided the prices listed above for those who are interested in conventional meat/dairy; however, we prefer to get our beef, chicken and eggs from local farmers or we opt for organic store varieties when necessary.

Unadvertised Temporary Price Drops

$3.99 Applegate Nitrate Free Hotdogs, 12 oz.
-$1 off coupon HERE

$1.99 Meijer Organics Canned Tomatoes, all varieties 28 oz.

$.60 Stonyfield Organic Yogurt Cups, 6 oz. (These are in a weird place in our store!)

-$.50/3 coupon HERE 
-$.50/1 coupon HERE
 

New to mPerks? Get $5 off your total purchase of groceries or general merchandise! Download digital coupons to your account and enter your mobile number at the checkout to automatically receive your discount. Click here for all the details. I think I am going to sign my husband up, too! Who couldn't use $5 in free groceries?!
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What are your "must-have" stock up items for a snowstorm? I love to hear from you--please leave a comment below!

Please DO NOT post these deals on your own blog or website without first getting my permission and then linking back to my site. Reach me via e-mail at these_precious_days@yahoo.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ThesePreciousDays.

Meal Plan Monday ~ March 4-10

Here is what's on the menu at our house this week. Items in BLUE are recipe links. Gluten-free meals are noted with GF. Ingredients marked with an * are on sale this week. For the best local grocery deals this week and coupon match-ups, check back on Monday evening.

Dinner

Monday (GF)
Taco Soup (Make a double batch for freezer.)
Tropical Smoothies with Strawberry, Frozen Pineapple*, Banana and Coconut

Tuesday
Pasta* Carbonara 
Steamed Asparagus
Baked Apples* with Cinnamon

Wednesday (GF)
Chicken Burrito Bowls (Rice*, Chicken*, Beans, Peppers & Onions*, Avocado, Salsa, Cheese*, Sour Cream)
Organic Tortilla Chips* and Salsa
Honey Lime* Fruit Salad

Thursday
Sweet Potato Pancakes with Pure Maple Syrup
Nitrate-Free Bacon*
Mixed Berries


Friday
Sloppy Joe's on Homemade Hamburger Buns
Oven Baked Fries*
Raw Veggies with Ranch Dip
Frozen Yogurt Dots (GF)

Saturday
Mom's Night Off ~ Out to Eat After Church

Sunday
Leftover Night (We're heading to the Cincinnati Museum Center.)

____________________________

Breakfast ~ Meals served w/milk (raw/organic or almond) & fresh fruit
(GF) Oatmeal*
Cold Cereal w/Raw Honey (Simple Truth Organic Os)
Leftover Pancakes with Pure Maple Syrup
(GF) Larabars* and Smoothies
(GF) Lemon* Blueberry Muffins
Cinnamon Toast and Apples* w/Almond Butter
Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits with Cinnamon Granola (Recipe coming soon!!)

____________________________

Lunch ~ Meals served with water and raw veggies
Annie's Homegrown Brand Mac-n-Cheese*
Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas
(GF) Ants on a Log (Celery* w/Almond Butter & Raisins) and Stovetop Popcorn 
Natural Peanut Butter* & Homemade Strawberry Jam Sandwiches x2
Turkey and Cheese* Sandwiches
Mini Corndog Muffins (Nitrate-Free Hotdogs* and Cornbread Mix)


What's on the menu at your house? Trying any new recipes?

I'm linked up at Organizing Junkie's Menu Plan Monday!

February 2013 Goals Update & March Goals

How on Earth is February over already?! The second month of 2013 flew by way too quickly, and I didn't get nearly as much accomplished as I had hoped. While I did get lots of great new blog posts written, some of my other goals suffered as a result.

We were unexpectedly able to pay off our home equity loan a couple weeks ago, due to some inheritance money. That is going to free up a nice little chunk of change each month! This was one of my 25 Goals for 2013 and I am incredibly happy we were able to cross it off the list so early in the year. Hooray for being debt free (minus the mortgage)!

My 2013 theme is: DISCIPLINE

February Goals

Personal Goals

• Attend Beth Moore bible study on Tuesday nights and complete required homework
• Get up by 6 am Monday through Friday It is getting easier, but I am not quite there yet.
• Go to bed no later than 11 pm Sunday through Thursday Epic fail! Ha ha!
• Exercise a minimum of 3 days a week for 30 minutes Hangs her head in shame...
• Read a min. of 2 books--paperback, e-book or other
• Focus on February's habit-of-the-month ~ Go to bed early

Marriage Goals

• Have one date night out and one day-long date
• Book hotel for overnight trip in April How have I procrastinated on this since Jan?!?
• Continue taking Follower's Life (church membership) class
• Read one book on marriage In progress!

Mothering Goals

• Take Charlotte to weekly story time at the library Charlotte was not a huge fan, so we stopped going.
• Take Jackson to weekly swimming lessons
• Finish reading Mr. Popper's Penguins with Jackson and plan a Mr. Popper's Penguins movie night  See movie night pictures here.
• Start a new chapter book with Jackson
• Take children out individually for a date/activity with one or both parents I took Jackson roller skating (see the disastrous details here), but did not take Charlotte out in Feb.

Family/Friends/Ministry Goals

• Spend time with parents & grandparents on both sides of the family at least three times a month
• Invite friends over for a playdate
• Continue being involved in our church, Mom2Mom and homeschool group on a regular basis
• Send two handwritten notes of encouragement Can't believe I forgot to do this!
• Research lodging for Myrtle Beach vacation in May

Financial Goals

• Continue tithing 10% of our income
• Save money for new windows
• Sort and tag/price too-small spring & summer kids' clothes and outgrown baby gear for the Kids' Avenue Sale at Ginghamsburg Church.
• Paid off our home equity loan!!!!!!

Blogging Goals

• Plan out blog posts a month in advance (at least 10 per month)
• Write blog posts a week ahead of time Still trying (unsuccessfully!) to work ahead.
• Stick to strict blogging hours that do not interfere with homemaking responsibilities or quality time with family I spent a little too much time writing blog posts this month. 

---------------------------------

March Goals


Personal Goals

• Attend Beth Moore bible study on Tuesday nights and read weekly supplemental material.
• Get up by 6 am Monday through Friday 
• Begin a 3x a week, 30 min. a day, Couch to 5K program ~ Eeeek!!!
• Read a min. of 2 books--paperback, e-book or other
• Focus on February's habit-of-the-month ~ Drink more water 

Marriage Goals

• Have one date night out and one day-long date in March
• Book hotel for overnight trip in April by March 6th
• Choose a unique and heartfelt birthday gift for Bill
• Finish taking Follower's Life (church membership) class
• Continue reading book The Four Seasons of Marriage

Mothering Goals

• Take Charlotte to weekly music and movement class at YMCA
• Take Jackson to weekly swimming lesson
• Start a new chapter book with Jackson
• Complete 4 new homeschool thematic units (Rocks, Colors/Rainbows, Easter, Butterflies)
• Take children out individually for a date/activity with one or both parents

Family/Friends/Ministry Goals

• Visit Bill's homebound grandma weekly
• Plan and host Jackson's 6th birthday party
• Have coffee or a playdate with another mom friend
• Continue being involved in our church, Mom2Mom and homeschool group on a regular basis
• Send two handwritten notes of encouragement
• Book condo for Myrtle Beach vacation in May

Financial Goals

• Continue tithing 10% of our income
• Save money for new window
• Cut the grocery budget by 10% and add to vacation savings account

Blogging Goals

• Plan out blog posts a month in advance (at least 15 this month)
• Write blog posts a week ahead of time 
• Reorganize tabs under blog header
• Stick to strict blogging hours that do not interfere with homemaking responsibilities or quality time with family 

Have you ever done a Couch to 5K training plan? What advice can you give this out-of-shape mom?

Meijer Hot Deal Preview for 3/3-3/9

Don't miss these great Meijer deals on fresh, healthy foods for the week of March 3-9, 2013! Check back on Monday morning for my complete list of weekly grocery deals for Meijer, Kroger and Aldi.

$1.99 Meijer Milk, gallon (excludes chocolate & organic)

$.89 Yellow Onions, 3 lb. bag

$1.50 Organic Celery Hearts

$4.99 Red Grapefruit (15 lb?! That's what the ad says!)

$.89/lb. Green, Red or Black Seedless Grapes

$.89 Broccoli

$.99/lb Meijer Spilt Chicken Breasts

$1.67/lb. Center Cut Boneless Pork Loin

$3.49 Kraft String Cheese, 12 ct.
-$1/2 mPerks coupon*
=$2.99 when you buy 2!

$3.00 Alexia Frozen Potatoes (check out the new organic fries!)

Get $1 off instantly when you buy 2!

-$1 printable coupon HERE (print 2x)

-$1 printable coupon HERE (print 2x)

=$1.50 each when you buy 2 with coupons!

$3.49 King Arthur Flour, 5 lb. (I use their white whole wheat for everything!)
-$.50 mPerks coupon*
=$2.99!

$1.25 Mann's Snacks on the Go--veggies and dip
$1/2 mPerks coupon*
=$.75 when you buy 2!

$3.00 Maxwell House Coffee
Get $2 off instantly when you buy 2!
=$2.00 each!

*New to mPerks? Get $5 off your total purchase of groceries or general merchandise! Download digital coupons to your account and enter your mobile number at the checkout to automatically receive your discount. Click here for all the details.  I think I am going to sign my husband up, too! Who couldn't use $5 in free groceries?!



Fresh Food Deals: Eat Healthy & Save Money!

The following grocery deals are for the Dayton, OH and surrounding areas. If you spot a great deal on fresh/natural/organic foods or find a new printable coupon, be sure to let me know so I can spread the word. This is a weekly feature that will be posted on Mondays or Tuesdays, whenever time permits. Some prices are weekly advertised prices and others are unadvertised sales with varying end dates.

ATTENTION KROGER SHOPPERS! Kroger stores will NOT be doubling coupons after 2/28/13. They will be accepted at face value only. Any coupons you have for less than $1.00 you may want to use up in the next few days! Deals listed below that include such coupons will be marked as WND (will not double). After March 1st, these coupons will double at Meijer, just not at Kroger stores.

KROGER
Weekly Advertised Deals for Feb. 25-Mar. 3
$.97/lb. Red Seedless Grapes
$.97 Driscoll's Blackberries, 6 oz. (Organic $1.29)
$.69 ea. Red, Yellow, Green or Orange Peppers
$1.99 ea. Del Monte Cantaloupe
$.99 ea. English Cucumbers
$1.25 ea. Jumbo Mangos
$.99 Grape Tomatoes, 10 oz.
$1.29 Russet Potatoes, 3 lb. (Organic)
$2.50 Simple Truth Organic Salad Blends (Organic)
$1.00 Fresh Selections Mini Carrots, 1 lb.
$.99 Broccoli

10/$10 Kroger Frozen Vegetables
10/$10 Birds Eye Steamfresh Frozen Vegetables
10/$10 Freshlike Frozen Vegetables

10/$10 Creamette Pasta or Kroger Pasta Sauce
10/$10 Red Gold Diced Tomatoes
$.98 Rotel Tomatoes
$1.99 Boulder Canyon Potato Chips
$3.99 Simple Truth Organic Peanut Butter
$3.99 Bear Naked Granola or Cereal
$2.50 Simple Truth Organic Cereal, select varieties
$2.50 GM Cheerios ($1.50 with coupon thru 2/28)
-$.50/1 coupon HERE (print 2x) WND after 2/28!
10/$10 Chicken of the Sea Chunk White Tuna
$1.97 Simple Truth Organic Sugar or Brown Sugar, 24 oz.

$2.49/lb. Ground Beef 73% Lean (when you buy 3+ lbs.)*
$3.49/lb. Bottom Angus Round Roast*
$6.99/lb. Boneless Ribeye Steak*
$3.99/lb. Cube Steak or Stew Beef*
$3.49/lb. Honeysuckle Ground Turkey*
$.97/lb. Tyson Spilt Chicken Breasts, Thighs or Drumsticks
$2.49/lb. Assorted Pork Chops*
25% off Kroger Frozen Fish Fillets or Scallops (look for wild-caught Pacific/Alaskan fish, whenever possible)
25% off Kroger Shrimp

$1.97 Kroger 1/2 Gallon Milk, select varieties (limit 6)*
$3.79 Horizon Organic Butter Quarters, 1 lb. (Reg. $5.99!)
$1.99 Kroger Cheese, 6-8 oz.*
10/$10 Brown Cow Greek Yogurt, 6 oz.*
-$.50/2 coupon HERE  WND after 2/28!
10/$10 Dannon Oikos or Chobani Greek Yogurt (rBST free)*
-$.30/1 Chobani coupon HERE (print 2x) WND after 2/28!

*Local, organic, pastured meat, poultry and dairy products are the healthiest choice if you can work them into your budget. I have provided the prices listed above for those who are interested in conventional meat/dairy; however, we prefer to get our beef, chicken and eggs from local farmers or we opt for organic store varieties when necessary.

Unadvertised Temporary Price Drops 
$1.49 Huggies Pull-ups Wipes Tub (closeout--select stores?)
-$.50/1 coupon in 2/24 newspaper insert WND after 2/28!
$1.99/lb. Simple Truth Organic Chicken Drumsticks
$1.99 Simple Truth Cage Free or Organic Eggs
$1.50 Simple Truth Organic Half-n-Half, pint
$2.50 Chobani Greek Yogurt, 16 oz.
$2.69 Krema Natural Peanut Butter
10/$10 Larabars
-$.75/2 Kroger Plus eCoupon (see link below)
$6.39 Spectrum Organic Coconut Oil, 15 oz.
$1.09/$1.19 Simple Truth Organic Regular/Whole Wheat Pasta, 1 lb.
$2.49 ST Organic Pasta Sauce
$3.59 ST Organic Quinoa, 16 oz.
$2.59 ST Organic Honey, 12 oz. squeeze bottle
$2.49 Stretch Island Fruit Co. Fruit Leather, 6 ct.
$1.67 Annie's Organic Mac-n-Cheese ($.97 w/coupon!)
-$.35 coupon HERE ~ Plus get $.75 off salad dressing & $.75 off bunny cookies or crackers
$1.67 Hormel Natural Choice Nitrate-Free Pepperoni* ($1.17 w/coupon!)
-$1/2 coupon HERE (print 2x)


DOWNLOAD COUPONS TO YOUR PLUS CARD AND SAVE $$ INSTANTLY! Click HERE to sign-up or sign-in and the electronic coupons will come off automatically at the register.
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MEIJER
Weekly Advertised Deals for Feb. 24-Mar. 2

Buy 10/$10, Get the 11th Item FREE!
Chobani Greek Yogurt, 6 oz.*
-$.30/1 Chobani coupon HERE (print 2)
Meijer Frozen Vegetables, 16 oz. (We LOVE the Petite Green Peas!)
Del Monte Fruit Naturals (produce section)
Red, Yellow or Orange Bell Peppers
Greenhouse Cucumbers
Extra Large Avocados
Grape Tomatoes, pint
Meijer Organic White or Baby Bella Mushrooms, 8 oz.
Earthbound Farm Organic Mini Peeled Carrots, 1 lb. 
-$1/2 coupon HERE (print 2x)
-$.75/1 coupon from web  NO LONGER AVAIL. TO PRINT
Earthbound Farm Organic Green Onions
-$.75/1 coupon from web  NO LONGER AVAIL. TO PRINT
Strawberries, 16 oz.
Blackberries, 16 oz. (unadvertised)
Meijer Pasta Sauce, 24 oz. (AWESOME ingredients, including organic sugar!)
Meijer Green Box Pasta or Whole Grain Pasta
Meijer Naturals Salsa, 18 oz.
Meijer Canned Fruit in Juice, 15 oz.
Hunt's or Rotel Canned Tomatoes
Meijer Solid White Albacore Tuna in Water, 5 oz.
Aunt Millie's English Muffins
Meijer Pretzels (We are partial to the ABC pretzels!)

$6.49 Meijer Wild Salmon Fillets, 16 oz. frozen
$5.99/lb. Meijer Cooked (50-60 ct.) or Raw (16 oz) Shrimp
$2.50 Bob Evan's Sausage Roll, Links, Patties (contain MSG)*
-$.50/1 coupon HERE (print 2x)
$3.49/lb. Angus Bottom Round Roast or Family Pack Steaks*
$3.99/lb. Ground Beef, 96% lean*
$7.99/lb. Boneless Strip Steaks*
$2.79/lb. Fresh Chicken Tenders*
$1.85/lb. Meijer Fresh Grade A Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts*

$2.50 Apple and Eve Fruitables, 8 pack
-$.55/1 coupon HERE (print 2x)
$2.79 Silk Soy, Almond or Coconut Milk, half gallon
$2.79 Minute Maid Pure Squeezed Orange Juice, 59 oz.
$3.69 Meijer Chunk Cheese, 14-16 oz.* (Great price!!)
$2.00 Kraft Natural Cheese, assorted varieties 5-8 oz.*
$3.49 Kraft String Cheese, 12 ct.*

*Local, organic, pastured meat, poultry and dairy products are the healthiest choice if you can work them into your budget. I have provided the prices listed above for those who are interested in conventional meat/dairy; however, we prefer to get our beef, chicken and eggs from local farmers or we opt for organic store varieties when necessary.

Unadvertised Temporary Price Drops
$2.50 Earthbound Farm Romaine Hearts 3 pk.
-$.75/1 coupon from web NO LONGER AVAIL. TO PRINT
$3.99 Applegate Nitrate Free Hotdogs, 12 oz.
$1.99 Stonefire Naan Flatbread (produce section)
$2.50 Blue Diamond Almond Thins (GF)
$1.25 Meijer Naturals Canned Tomatoes, all varieties 28 oz.
$4.69/$4.79 Maranatha Organic PB or Almond Butter
-$1 coupon HERE (print 2x)
$2.99 Snyder GF Pretzels
10/$10 Larabars
$1.67 Breakstone's Sour Cream (rBST free)
$2 Stonyfield Organic YoBaby or YoToddler Yogurt, 4 pk. ($1 w/coupon!)
-$.50/1 coupon HERE (coupon resets March 1st--print now AND then)
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ALDI (Don't forget that Walmart and Target will price match!!)
Weekly Advertised Deals for Feb. 24-Mar.2
$.49 Avocados
$1.29 Red Potatoes, 5 lb. bag
$.69 Grape Tomatoes, 10 oz.
$1.59 Navel Oranges, 4 lb. bag
$1.79 Blueberries, pint
$.69/lb. Lemons, 1 lb.

(WEDNESDAY ONLY!) $1.69/lb. Fresh Chicken Breasts, 5 lb. avg.*
$3.99/lb. Wild Caught Salmon
$3.59/lb. Fresh Ground Sirloin, 90% lean*
$1.19/lb. Kirkwood Fresh Chicken Thighs, 3.5 lb. avg. weight*
$2.69/lb. Kirkwood Fresh Chicken Tenderloins, 1.5 lb. avg. weight*

$2.89 Laughing Cow Mini Babybel Original Cheese, 4.5 oz.

*Local, organic, pastured meat, poultry and dairy products are the healthiest choice if you can work them into your budget. I have provided the prices listed above for those who are interested in conventional meat/dairy; however, we prefer to get our beef, chicken and eggs from local farmers or we opt for organic store varieties when necessary.

Have you spotted any other good deals I should add to this post? Is there a store where you frequently shop that could be added to this list? I love to hear from you--please leave a comment below!

Please DO NOT post these deals on your own blog or website without first getting my permission and then linking back to my site. Reach me via e-mail at these_precious_days@yahoo.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ThesePreciousDays.

Meal Plan Monday ~ Feb. 24 - Mar. 2

Here is what's on the menu at our house this week. Items in BLUE are recipe links. Gluten-free meals are noted with GF. Ingredients marked with an * are on sale this week. For the best local grocery deals this week and coupon match-ups, click HERE.

Dinner

Monday (GF)
White Chicken Chili (Make a double batch for freezer.)
Pumpkin Custard with Real Whipped Cream

Tuesday
Beef & Bean Enchiladas (Make extra meat for taco salad.)
Raw Veggies with Avocado* Ranch Dip
Strawberry* Mango* Smoothies

 

Wednesday (GF)
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry w/Carrots*, Peppers*, Gr. Onion*, Broccoli* & Mushrooms*
Brown Rice
Cantaloupe*

Thursday (GF)
"Unstuffed" Peppers* with Quinoa*
Blueberry* and Banana Yogurt* Parfaits

Friday (GF)
Mini Meatloaf Muffins
Twice Baked Potatoes*  (Make a double batch for freezer.)
Steamed Asparagus
Frozen Grape* and Blueberry* Kabobs

Saturday
Mom's Night Off ~ Out to Eat After Church

Sunday
Crockpot Lasagna Rolls w/Marinara Sauce*  (Make a double batch for freezer.)
Mixed Greens* Salad with Ranch Dressing
Fudgy Almond Flour Brownies (GF)

____________________________

Breakfast ~ Meals served w/milk (raw/organic or almond*) & fresh fruit
Oatmeal x2
Leftover Pumpkin Custard with Real Whipped Cream
Cold Cereal* w/Raw Honey (Simple Truth Organic Os)
Peanut Butter, Carrot* and Banana Muffins (GF)
French Toast with Pure Maple Syrup and Bacon
Cinnamon Raisin Biscuit Bites & Scrambled Eggs

____________________________

Lunch ~ Meals served with water and raw veggies
Annie's Homegrown Brand Mac-n-Cheese*
Homemade, Oven-Baked Chicken Nuggets
English Muffin* Pepperoni* Pizzas
Natural Peanut Butter* & Raw Honey Sandwiches x2
Turkey and Cheese* Sandwiches
(GF) Taco Salad (Romaine*, Beef/Bean Mixture, Cheese*, Salsa*, Sour Cream*, Avocado*, Tortilla Chips)


What's on the menu at your house? Trying any new recipes?

I'm linked up at Organizing Junkie's Menu Plan Monday!