I am the mother of 4 (yes FOUR) boys, aged 1, 6, 10, and 12. After working 10 years in the professional world, I had a pulmonary embolism and had to resign. My husband and I decided we would figure out how to allow me to stay home with our children, and appreciate each moment we have together. I completed my BA degree at a state university, and went on to complete my MA degree with my “free” time.
Meanwhile, six months ago I did not subscribe to the Sunday paper, but I would receive my parent’s weekly coupon insert(s). I would clip anything that looked like I might purchase it by the expiration date, and perhaps save $5-10 a week plus sale savings at Publix. I had heard of coupon classes but never attended them, because people who attended told me they were put off by some practices being taught at the class (such as emptying the blinkies, removing coupons from products they aren’t buying, etc).
So I set out to coupon my own way, to save more money for my household and find the most polite ways to do so. I found http://www.iheartpublix.com, and began to follow it every day. The advanced notice of sales with coupon-match-ups inspired me to begin collecting multiple inserts each week. I started stockpiling frequently used household items, then non-perishable food, and taking advantage of free items and money-making coupons. I learned the coupon policy and started collecting competitor coupons from surrounding stores.
Six months later, I now have 11 binders and each week I save at LEAST $200 at Publix. My coupons usually amount to $100, but much more if Publix has a great ad. I receive 4 subscriptions at home to the Sunday paper (which I pay about 8 CENTS a piece for!!!) and using http://www.sundaycouponpreview.com, I know when I will need to purchase even more copies.
My efforts allow me to spend hundreds each month on other things. I save or make more than I would with a typical part time job. I am able to donate regularly to my local food bank that serves 5 schools in my area. I have been teaching anybody that will listen how to make a shopping list and match up coupons…I have the best hobby in the world. It’s so fulfilling and gratifying, and EXCITING when I make $1 on a bottle of vitamins and give them away! I love handing $5 to random people who I feel led to give to. There are times where I have gotten an impatient and rude shopper behind me in line, a supervisor who didn’t want to deal with me; but for every negative encounter I experience 10 others that are in awe at my savings and commend me for my efforts.
On behalf of myself and my family, I would like to thank you iheartpublix for helping me make this happen.
Many blessings.
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