Learning the Art of Couponing

I've never been much of a coupon clipper or deal hunter. Instead, I just stress over constantly going over my grocery budget. Well, that just isn't going to work for me anymore! Thanks to the abundance of money saving blogs out there and testimonials from personal friends, I can no longer deny that couponing WORKS. It might take a little more effort, but if it means that I could save as much as 70% on my grocery bill I will take it!

Here is my plan:

1. Clip, clip, clip! I'm going to clip and file coupons like a mad woman.
2. Every Wednesday I will check the ads for local grocery stores.
3. After I check the ads, I will compare my coupons AND head over to Frugal Fritzie to see the deals she finds. I am SO glad I discovered this blog via The Frugal Map. She covers both of the grocery stores where I plan to shop (trying to give up Wal-Mart as much as possible). If you haven't already, check out The Frugal Map to locate a deal finder in your area.
4. Shop with CASH. We're getting a little bit Dave Ramsey around here, folks. Again, we've seen it work too often to deny it anymore.

So why I am doing this? Because I have dreams for my family. Big dreams. I also have debt that is preventing those dreams from becoming a reality, and if reducing my grocery bill will free up funds to reduce that debt then I am on board.

Tomorrow is my first deal-seeking Wednesday and Friday marks the beginning of a brand new budget. Here I go...wish me luck!

Pretty and Frugal Home Decor

My living room is in dire need of a makeover. There is a large wall on the far end of the room that has been needing decorations ever since we moved in almost two years ago. Well, I finally found something to do with it! I took cues from my friends Kelly (yeah, she did a guest post at Nesting Place, one of the many reasons why she is awesome) and Sheyenne (who is also very skilled in the area of home decor) and created my own little frugal art gallery with card stock and things I printed from my home computer.

I must apologize for the poor quality of these pictures. Not only am I a terrible photographer, but I have kind of a crummy camera.

Sheet music for "It is Well with My Soul"

Lyrics to "Everything" by Lifehouse - our wedding song

Colossians 3:12-17

One of the best parts of this project is that it cost less than $20! Next up for this room: a little window mistreatment :)