My New Obsession!

Yes, I have been introduced to the world of couponing! I subscribe to the local newspaper and get 3 copies each Sunday. The pile of coupons you see here is 1 week worth from the inserts in my paper. I also print coupons online and pick them up where ever else I can get them. This is my whole system. I have attended a class which taught me how to organize my coupons and I am getting better at it everytime I go shopping. I have already saved more than have my bill on many of my trips to the store.

This has really been a fun way to save money for our family. I feel like I am shopping all the time, but I have actually spent less on groceries and other necessities this month than I have ever spent. Plus we are stocking our pantry at the same time!

There is one drawback (tho for me it isn't much of one). I do spend a lot of time clipping, printing, searching out deals, and making a few more trips to the store. Some of that is just because I am new at this and it takes me a little longer sometimes to figure things out. I figure I am spending as much time on couponing as I would on a part time job. However, I am still able to be with my kids and basically earn $$$!

Some of you may have seen the new TLC show Extreme Couponing. I'm not that good yet. I just hope to someday have at least one shopping trip that comes close to what those people can do. For now my goal is just to cut my grocery bill each month down to $200 or less.

Some of you may be thinking, "Well, that is fine for you, but I just don't have that kind of time or energy." I totally understand. It's definitely not for everyone. However, my favorite quote about couponing came from a woman on the Extreme Couponing show. She said, and I'm quoting loosely, "You just ain't never been broke enough!"