Wildly Couponing

So I have tried making necklaces.  I tried reading.  I tried exploring the outdoors.  Those hobbies weren't that fun for me.  Ever since the show extreme couponing came around I have started to build a stash of coupons and used tools I never thought of before.  I am now saving about 50% on all grocery store outings. 

What would you do if your money went twice as far? 

I like saving money on toilet paper and deodorant so I have some extra money for another cute pair of shoes :) Just sayin'.

I am still figuring out which store has the best initial price and which store has the best deals.  I have narrowed down to Safeway (which will double a coupon up to the value of 1.00) and walmart which usually has cheaper retail prices on toiletries and a wider variety of sizes including travel sizes which are oftentimes FREE.

Here is a quick recap from this evenings shopping trip.

I went into Safeway with my coupons in hand.  Most items were on sale and I also used coupons.
2 jars of spaghetti sauce - retail 3.39 each, paid 1.20 each
2 boxes of safeway brand of pasta - retail 1.29 each, paid .99 each
2 hormel compleat meals - retail 2.99, pd 1.50
3 hormel compleat meals - retail 2.49, pd 1.00
3 tortilla stuffers - retail 3.69, pd 2.00
1 gallon milk - retail 3.19, pd 1.98
2 packs of yogurt - retail 2.39, pd .99
2 bags Tyson chicken - retail 9.99, pd 4.50

Total retail value = 61.83
Amount paid = 29.34
Total % saved = 52%!

Some items were not available so I made a quick trip to wal-mart.  I am lucky to have so many places so close.

Old Spice Deodorant - retail 1.88, pd .88
Old Spice Deodorant - retail 1.88, pd .88
Old Spice Body Wash - retail 3.47, pd 0.00
Old Spice Body Wash - retail 3.47, pd 0.00
Aussie hairspray - retail 2.84, pd 1.84
Aussie hairspray - retail 2.84, pd 1.84
yogurt - retail 2.28, pd 1.78

Total retail value = 18.66
Amount Paid = 7.22
Total % saved = 61%

I saved $43.93 which is a 54.5% savings!

I am not an extreme couponer since I didn't save 99% but I would say I am a wild couponer!