1st Test C+

I survived my grocery shopping adventure at Winco on Friday. I spent THREE HOURS there. I got all the deals I was hoping for and I few I didn't expect. I spent $213.00 on a grocery cart FULL of groceries. I had 5 store coupons and 20 manufacturer coupons and I saved a total of $24. Now,6 months ago if I had saved that much with coupons I would've felt like the Queen of the Coupon World. BUT,thanks to my new knowledge of this "new" trend and the extremes people go to.... I feel defeated. My savings wasn't 40%. I know I shouldn't feel disappointed,we needed a lot of groceries I had no coupon for and Winco's prices are MUCH lower that most stores...but still,I have worked so hard and I was hoping for bigger results. All in good time I suppose. A first lesson in couponing learned-even if you stick to the rules,groceries cost money. LOL! Until I can stock my pantry with enough goods to last me a few months I will have to buy some things as I need them and I won't always have a coupon. When my stockpiled pantry is complete I will be able to wait and buy things at their lowest price...or maybe even free!

This week I got 5 Sunday papers and it has taken me 2 evenings to cut and organize them all in my coupon binder. I continue to learn as much as I can and I keep my faith I will be able to turn this new "part time job" into a way of giving to others as well. Today I mailed coupons to Idaho! My friends there don't get many of the great manufacturer coupons I get here and I am happy to share any I don't use. Any of you reading this that would like coupons let me know. I have a ton for dog and cat food,asst OTC medications,snacks etc.

:)