coupons

A few days ago, I received my March Real Simple magazine in the mail.  (I've always been bothered by receiving magazines entire months early, but I'll save that for another post.)  Embracing the slowing economy and turning it into something marketable, Real Simple's theme for the month is all about tightening the purse strings.  The cover promises various ways to save money, get more for your money, etc.  It's weird, but I immediately got excited at the thought of saving rather than spending my money.  Maybe slowing economies have some good effects, after all.

Anyway, inspired by my Real Simple magazine, I decided to buy the Sunday paper and clip coupons.  I clipped several coupons for items I use regularly, or items I'd be willing to substitute for the items I use regularly.  This week's coupon books were a wealth of potential savings!  Crest Pro Health toothpaste!  Whitening rinse!  Bounce dryer sheets, which I was almost out of anyway!

Armed with coupons, I headed to Wal-Mart on Sunday afternoon.  For the first time ever, I was disappointed by Wal-Mart's low prices.  Instead of using a coupon to buy Bounce dryer sheets, I bought Great Value dryer sheets at half the price.  Bounce dryer sheets for $4.50 after the coupon, or Great Value dryer sheets for $2?  Come on...that's a no-brainer.  Wal-Mart's store brand rendered my coupons virtually useless.  Sadness!

Note:  I did have better luck at Walgreens, but who really shops for groceries there?  The only person I know who shops there is my crazy grandmother.  I really don't want to go down that road!

In other news, Ross and I had engagement pictures made this past weekend.  We should have proofs in the next few weeks.  If I'm allowed to share, I'll post a link!