(Semi) Extreme Couponing

When I was younger, I used to cringe at the grocery checkout as I watched my mother have the cashier scan dozen of coupons. I'd look back at the customers waiting in line and look apologetic as we took seemingly forever to complete our purchase.

I've been fortunate enough to not NEED to clip coupons, but watching the show "Extreme Couponing" on TLC changed my mind. I was absolutely fascinated with these people who send hours cutting coupons/planning shopping trips to haul in $1000 in merchandise for less than $10. I realized that while a lot of them seem to be compulsive shoppers/hoarders, their strategy actually makes a lot of sense!

I haven't received my first Sunday paper yet, but I am very excited about the prospect of having manufacturer's coupons to bring to the stores, hopefully scoring some double-coupon deals. In the past few weeks, I have saved almost $45 by combining store weekly sales with coupons, stocking up on things that I always use. I also use the Kroger app on my iPhone to automatically add coupons to my store card! These savings are money in the bank to purchase the things I need/want, like a new trash can for my kitchen, without guilt.

I texted my Mom about my coupon efforts, and she is super thrilled about it! She told me that now I understand why she never pays full price, and why sometimes she has four jars of mayo at once. You stock up (within reason) when things are on sale, and in time you have everything you need!