bargains just waiting

Today I am heading out to SuperTarget for my monthly "big shop".  So called because I fill up a cart (sometimes two), and I can see the cashier inwardly groan when I get in his or her lane.  I have learned to scout for a cheerful checker, who looks like they might welcome the challenge that is my purchase.  I usually get a big sigh from them when I hand over my giant stack of coupons. but occasionally I will come across one who loves the game as much as I do, and will loudly proclaim my savings to all of the other customers when she is done ringing me up.

I have a Target Visa card, that I use as my primary credit card.  I love that Charlie's school benefits from my shopping, and I earn a 10% off coupon every month.  When the bill arrives, it gets paid in full, so I don't have any credit card debt.  This system has worked pretty well for me, so I am sticking with it.  In addition to the 10% off coupon (which is good on my entire purchases for a whole day-no restrictions on anything) I also receive additional coupons from them each month for being a loyal 'guest'.

Did you know that you can combine Target coupons with manufacturer's coupons?  Let's say Progresso soup is on sale this week for $1.25 a can, and I have a manufacturer's coupon for .50 off, and a Target coupon for another .50 off.  That means that can of soup cost me .25.  Wahoo! 

My sister is the QUEEN of coupons and bargains, and she regularly scouts all of the coupon sites and blogs that are out there.  Some people are really devoted to this process, and their pantries and shelves are filled with things they got nearly for free.  I am always getting coupons in the mail from her, and free samples and bargains. 

I am not that devoted, but I do take the time to find coupons for things that I regularly use, so that I can save myself some money.  I won't take the time to clip a coupon for something, even if I CAN get it free, if I know I won't use it.  I just don't have time for that.  But judicious coupon clipping can really save you some money.  In last month's 'big shop', I spent $250, but I saved $90.  And since my monthly big shop consists of cleaning supplies and basics for my pantry and freezer, I am saving money on what I actually use.

Don't get me wrong, it takes a lot of time to prepare for a big shop.  But I think it's worth it.  And SuperTarget is by far and away the very best place to do my shopping.  Sure, they don't always have every brand, but they have enough for me.  I will always be a loyal and devoted fan.  And it really has nothing to do with the fact that I used to work for them!

If you want to take advantage of the coupons they are offering on their site this week, here's a link (just click on the 'coupons' section on the left side, and be sure to enter your zip code for coupons that will apply to your Target):

http://sites.target.com/site/en/supertarget/page.jsp?title=home

Happy Shopping!