Today I was featured in the New York Times. It is a great article by Stephanie Rosenbloom called “A Clip-and-Save Renaissance“.

I recently found I needed some printing paper, and new security software. I had some Staples coupons, so I scoured their weekly flyer to check for good deals. Here’s what I spotted.

Norton Anti-virus software was on sale for $39.99 with a $20 rebate and Hammermill Paper had a Buy One Get One Free on 2-10 ream boxes up to $38.99. I never did the Easy Rebate via the internet because I’m so used to the mail-in type. But I decided to take the plunge. I made my purchases and returned home with my product and cash register receipts.

I sat down at the computer and fulfilled the sign-in procedure. Next I followed the directions to submit my online rebates. About 2 minutes later I was done, and then received an email confirmation. I couldn’t believe how easy and fast the whole procedure was.

I hope this is the wave of the future. It eliminates so much time because my information was pre-filled, no envelope, no postage and even with my limited internet skills I was successful. I have already received a $20 Visa card for my Norton purchase.

Our media tour continues. On a recent stop in Houston, TX we pre-arranged a shopping trip with the NBC affiliate, KPRC at an H.E.B Store. Courtney Gilmore, the reporter called me in New York before I left to let me know that a coupon clipper friend of hers was going to meet us at the H.E.B. in Cypus, TX.

We all arrived at the store around 9 AM, and Clara was armed with 2 organizers. I had the list, the flyer and my coupons. Clara and I could have talked for hours, comparing notes and deals, but with the cameras at our side we limited ourselves to quick conversations.

We did find some great deals along the way. For example French’s had an on-sticker offer for BOGOF. With my $1 coupon, the cost was $.19 each. We continued to Kraft BBQ sauce on sale for $1.04. The coupon stated, Buy 2 Kraft Items for $2 off your poultry purchase which was already in my basket. The BBQ sauce was a great deal at 2 for $.08. Next, we combined a manufacturers Colgate toothpaste coupon with an H.E.B. free Colgate toothbrush. We continued throughout finding more bargains.

After shopping, we headed for the checkout. The total was $136.84 for a total savings of $120.43. Our planning, coupon discounts, store sales really paid off and I made a new friend.

Degree is giving a $1 coupon

http://www.degreewomen.com/Women/Fine-Fragrance-Collection.aspx

Lever $1 coupon

http://www.lever2000.com/

$3 in Dove Coupons

http://content.dove.us/dimensions/coupons.aspx

$3 in Pledge Coupons

http://www.pledge.com/savings/2009-1/

$6 in Coupons from Eat Better America: Yoplait, Wheaties etc.

http://www.eatbetteramerica.com/coupons/?WT.dcsvid=MzQ4NjY4ODU2NQS2&WT.mc_id=Newsletter_EBA_042909

$7 coupon for Crest White Strips

http://www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/pgeds/en_US/jsp/EDS_Page.jsp?pageID=SCSCL&edstempseg=BB&utm_source=BB&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=May09Newsletter