Fabulessly Frugal: A Coupon Blog sharing Amazon Deals, Printable Coupons, DIY, How to Extreme Coupon, and Make Ahead Meals » 2012 Budget Challenge

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 52}

Monica — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 16:30:51 +0000

I hope you joined us in goal setting a Grocery Budget!

This post marks the end of the 2012 Grocery Budget Challenge. We hope this has helped you see that YOU CAN take control of your grocery budget! This challenge was good for me. It helped me to focus on buying the food we really need for less on a small budget. I did not waste money on free or cheap items we would may not use because I knew my budget was limited.

Wow! I can not believe I did it! I stayed under budget for the year! I spent less than $150 most months. My total savings this year was $4048.92! Think of the things I can do with an extra $4000! Woot!

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $40.28
Savings this week: $70.25

Spending for December: $145.75
Savings for December: $460.58

2012 Year Total Spending: $1,556.14
2012 Year Total Savings: $4048.92

I made it to Albertsons for doubles shopping today I only spent 21.83! I then made a quick trip to Costco to pick up a fruit platter for a party, but had to settle for the fruit bowl. Normally I would make something from my stockpile to take to a party, but the hostess requested that I bring a fruit bowl. So that brought my total up to $40.28. Crazy to think that I spent almost the same amount on a fruit bowl and milk as I did on the rest of my purchases with coupons.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3.5

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $0

Spending for December: $109.99
Savings for December: $208.14

2012 Year Total Spending: $2361.98
2012 Year Total Savings: $4581.46

No shopping this week! We stayed home baked cookies with ingredients from our stockpile and enjoyed the time with family! Yay for being under budget!

We are not officially taking the challenge to 2013.

We encourage you to take on the challenge, set a goal for your monthly spending and keep track of it! We will not be hosting a weekly tracking this year. But the does not mean you can not take the challenge on your own. We have some exciting preparedness ideas coming for 2013 so stay tuned!

Thanks for participating!

I want to thank everyone that participated this year in the budget challenge. I really enjoyed your feedback and seeing your progress through out the year. The winner of our December $20 amazon gift card is…. Christina!

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 52}

Monica — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 07:05:43 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We are getting ready to wrap up our 2012 Grocery Budget Challenge. We hope this has helped you see that YOU CAN take control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $105.47
Savings this week: $155.25

Spending for December: $105.47
Savings for December: $390.33

Year to date spending: $1,515.86
Year to date savings: $3588.34

I had a great trip to Albertsons with my double coupons and stocked up on Chex cereal for only $1! I also got some goodies for Christmas at Fred Meyer. I only spend about $25! But on Christmas morning when I realized the roast I bought for dinner was still frozen in the fridge I sent the husband out to Albertsons the only grocery store open in town and he came home with an $80 prime rib. Yikes! Good thing I have been under budget this month.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3.5

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $96.65
Savings this week: $144.97

Spending for December: $109.99
Savings for December: $208.14

Year to date spending: $2361.98
Year to date savings: $45.81.46

Had to buy some necessities this week, so I spent a little more than I wanted to, but I’m still under budget for the year!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

Enter your goal and spending here:

November Challenge Winner: Lauren H!

Lauren- Comment on this post to claim your prize and I will send you your $20 amazon gift card!

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 51}

Monica — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 23:00:30 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Did you know we have a weekly challenge going? Lucky for you, even thought it is almost the end of the year it’s not too late to join! Here are the details about our 2012 Grocery Budget Challenge. Even if you are not yet using coupons you can start saving more simply by setting some goals!

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $127.58

Spending for December: $0
Savings for December: $235.08

Year to date spending: $1,410.39
Year to date savings: $3198.01

I took two trips to Fred Meyer this week. I got my main sale list plus a roast for Christmas and then made another trip to get some fresh bread for a party. I used $90.08 of my Fred Meyer gift card, but stretched my card my saving $37.50 with coupons and sales!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3.5

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $3.85
Savings this week: $41.46

Spending for December: $13.34
Savings for December: $63.17

Year to date spending: $2265.33
Year to date savings: $4436.49

Didn’t do much shopping this week, just hit Walgreens. My stockpile is starting to dwindle, but that’s okay! I’ll rebuild it in the new year! We still have about 10 boxes of cereal, many, many cans and frozen veggies, and TONS of Chicken/Beef fromZaycon. I plan on doing some doubles shopping this week at Albertsons, and I’ll need to hit the bread store, but other than that, we are good through the end of the year!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

Enter your goal and spending here:

November Challenge Winner: Lauren H!

Lauren- Comment on this post to claim your prize and I will send you your $20 amazon gift card!

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 50}

Monica — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 01:00:50 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $107.50

Spending for December: $0
Savings for December: $107.50

Year to date spending: $1,410.39
Year to date savings: $3070.43

I took two trips to Fred Meyer this week. Great way to get the store coupon deals with limits. It is on my route so it is easy for me to do. I used $59.81 of my Fred Meyer gift card to make these purchases, but stretched my card my saving $48.69 with coupons!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3.5

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $9.49
Savings this week: $21.71

Spending for December: $9.49
Savings for December: $21.71

Year to date spending: $2261.48
Year to date savings: $4395.03

Just went to Walgreens last week! I LOVE having a stockpile. It makes rough weeks easier, because you can just live off it!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

Enter your goal and spending here:

November Challenge Winner: Lauren H!

Lauren- Comment on this post to claim your prize and I will send you your $20 amazon gift card!

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 49}

Monica — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 01:00:53 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $1.93
Savings this week: $64.00

Spending for November: $101.53
Savings for November: $456.70

Year to date spending: $1,410.39
Year to date savings: $2,962.93

I went to Albertsons this week to get my groceries with coupons! When shopping at Albertsons I use my $20 catalinas, from last week which saved me a lot of money on my grocery budget this month!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3.5

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $52.02
Savings this week: $0

Spending for November: $262.36
Savings for November: $547.95

Year to date spending: $2251.99
Year to date savings: $4373.32

My munchkin and I were sick all week, so we didn’t do any shopping. Finally on Friday I broke down and asked my hubs to run to the store for a couple of items. No coupons were used, and he came home with things not on the list, and he shopped at the “Store on the Way” instead of the cheap store a few extra miles away. Whoops. Oh well. November Budget BLOWN, but because we have been mostly on or under budget, I have $148.01 left of my yearly budget! I think we can totally make it!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

Enter your goal and spending here:

November Challenge Winner: Lauren H!

Lauren- Comment on this post to claim your prize and I will send you your $20 amazon gift card!

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 48}

Monica — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 23:15:18 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $9.02
Savings this week: $135.09

Spending for November: $99.60
Savings for November: $392.70

Year to date spending: $1,408.46
Year to date savings: $2,798.93

I went to Fred Meyer, and Albertsons this week to get my groceries with coupons! When shopping at Albertsons I bought gift cards so I could earn $20 catalinas, which saved me a lot of money on my grocery budget this month!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $33.86
Savings this week: $65.15

Spending for November: $210.34
Savings for November: $547.95

Year to date spending: $2199.97
Year to date savings: $4373.32

I have been dealing with a lot of morning sickness (and mine comes with oh so fab migraines!), so instead of baking pies for Thanksgiving, I ran into Pauls and bough them! YIKES! $31.50 later, not so frugal, but way easier on my super sniffer! I’d love to hear your cures for Morning Sickness!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

Enter your goal and spending here:

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 47}

Monica — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 01:00:29 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $14.04
Savings this week: $67.80

Spending for November: $90.58
Savings for November: $257.61

Year to date spending: $1,308.86
Year to date savings: $2,406.23

I went to Fred Meyer, and Albertsons this week to get my groceries with coupons!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $92.28
Savings this week: $201.27

Spending for November: $176.48
Savings for November: $482.80

Year to date spending: $2166.11
Year to date savings: $4308.17

I bought 2 Bountiful Baskets this week, and got totally stocked up on shelf stable produce! Plus we stocked up on chicken at Albertsons, and that got us a $.49/lb turkey!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

Enter your goal and spending here:

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 46}

Monica — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 01:00:50 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $112.06

Spending for November: $76.54
Savings for November: $189.81

Year to date spending: $1,308.86
Year to date savings: $2,338.43

Busy week. I did not get to the store at all. I did however get my bacon and ham delivery from zaycon! I used my referral credit to pay for it so it was free!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $80.47
Savings this week: $248.97

Spending for November: $84.20
Savings for November: $284.53

Year to date spending: $2073.83
Year to date savings: $4106.90

I bought a Bountiful Basket this week, and got the hostess pack, and that was $31.50. I priced it at Walmart, and I saved right at $60 between both the Basket and the Hostess pack!

AND YIPPEE!! I have passed the $4000 saved mark! That to me and my family is HUGE! We were able to take a vacation this year, and everything was paid for in CASH. Plus we are going out and having more fun than we ever did before we started couponing because we have MORE money, even though our income is less! You can do this too!!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

Enter your goal and spending here:

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 45}

Monica — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 01:00:58 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $76.54
Savings this week: $67.75

Spending for November: $76.54
Savings for November: $67.75

Year to date spending: $1,308.86
Year to date savings: $2,226.37

I did lot’s of shopping this week. I went to Fred Meyer, Albertsons, Costco and Ridley’s. I do not usually shop at Ridley’s because it is not near my house. But we went to McCall for the weekend so I could not pass up on the deals at the Ridleys in McCall. I was $50 under budget last month, so I am giving myself permission to spend a little more this month if I need to.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $3.73
Savings this week: $32.56

Spending for November: $3.73
Savings for November: $32.56

Year to date spending: $1993.36
Year to date savings: $3857.93

Because I stocked up last week, I didn’t have much to buy this week!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

Enter your goal and spending here:

WINNER…

Our October $20 amazon gift card winner is Amber B!
Amber leave a comment on this post to claim the gift card!

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 44}

Monica — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 00:00:10 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $38.18
Savings this week: $20.50

Spending for October: $100.05
Savings for October: $211

Year to date spending: $1,232.32
Year to date savings: $2,158.61

I went to WinCo to get pumpkins, cream cheese and produce. I got milk at Costco since I had reached my limit for milk coupons. My in-laws came to visit and had a craving for Butterfinger blizzards so we got some deals at Fred Meyer using the in store coupons!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $116.69
Savings this week: $175.10

Spending for October: $244.55
Savings for October: $307.10

Year to date spending: $1989.63
Year to date savings: $3825.37

I took a break from couponing this month, we were in Seattle at the beginning of the month, and then with Pumpkin Patches, my birthday, and my life, I just didn’t have time to coupon! I went to WinCo to stock up on essentials, but actually forgot my coupon binder at home, so I paid full price! Kinda nice sometimes! However, it does mean we went over budget! Thankfully I still have a little cushion for the year, but November and December are always more expensive for me grocery wise. It’s going to be hard, but I’m going to do it!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 43}

Monica — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:23 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $27.33
Savings this week: $114.00

Spending for October: $61.87
Savings for October: $190.50

Year to date spending: $1,194.14
Year to date savings: $1,947.61

I shopped Albertsons doubles, Fred Meyer and made a quick trip to Costco this week. The apples I bought last week and are not included in the total above.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $23.23
Savings this week: $78.66

Spending for October: $127.86
Savings for October: $131.91

Year to date spending: $1872.94
Year to date savings: $3650.27

I didn’t really shop much this week, just my Walgreens/Target shopping trips! I love living on our stockpile!!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 42}

Monica — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:41 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $25
Savings this week: $50

Spending for October: $34.54
Savings for October: $76.50

Year to date spending: $1,194.14
Year to date savings: $1,947.61

So the only thing I bought this week is 86 lbs of pears and apples. My friend picked them up for me at a local orchard. Did you see what I did with all of those pears? Find out how to dry pears.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $104.63
Savings this week: $53.25

Spending for October: $104.63
Savings for October: $53.25

Year to date spending: $1849.71
Year to date savings: $3571.61

We came back from Seattle to a house devoid of fresh food, so we had to spend a little more this week than we normally do.

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 41}

Monica — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 01:33:10 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $9.54
Savings this week: $26.50

Spending for October: $9.54
Savings for October: $26.50

Year to date spending: $1,185.83
Year to date savings: $1,932.91

I went to Albertsons to use my double coupons and I bought 4 gallons of milk, 2 boxes of crackers, 2 bags of rice cakes, bananas, 2 cans of tomato sauce, chicken and beef bullion, and a chocolate bar.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $0

Spending for October: $37.10
Savings for October: $124.62

Year to date spending: $1745.08
Year to date savings: $3518.36

We were on vacation all last week, so everything we spent came out of our vacation fund! Let me tell you, a week off from coupons, and not worrying about how much we spent because we were paying in cash with money we had saved, was an AWESOME feeling!!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 39} Plus September Winner!

Monica — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:09 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $7.15
Savings this week: $8.80

Spending for September: $170.12
Savings for September: $227.40

Year to date spending: $1,176.29
Year to date savings: $1,906.41

I could not pass up the cereal deal at Albertsons and I stopped into Fred Meyer for the cases of water!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $37.10
Savings this week: $124.62

Spending for September: $199.53
Savings for September: $618.61

Year to date spending: $1745.08
Year to date savings: $3518.36

WOO!!! Made it under budget by $0.47!! After going WAY over last month, it’s nice to be under budget again!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

Congratulations to Christina B our September budget challenge winner! Comment on this post to claim your prize.

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 38}

Monica — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 19:55:21 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $104.11
Savings this week: $79.10

Spending for September: $162.97
Savings for September: $218.60

Year to date spending: $1,169.14
Year to date savings: $1,897.61

I did lots of shopping this week. I stopped by Fred Meyer a few times when I was out to get the cheese for $2.99! I also did double coupons at Albertsons last week and made a trip to WinCo to buy peppers to make and can salsa using my garden tomatoes. So I am over budget!!!! Eeek. I do not feel bad because I have been under budget the last 5 months!

The salsa I canned with my garden tomatoes and some peppers from WinCo! Thanks to my friend Stephanie.

Groceries I bought at Fred Meyer including cheese $2.99 and the sweet juicy peaches for .88/lb!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $46.06
Savings this week: $123.05

Spending for September: $162.43
Savings for September: $493.99

Year to date spending: $1707.98
Year to date savings: $3393.74

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 37}

Monica — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 19:30:49 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $12.80
Savings this week: $5

Spending for September: $58.86
Savings for September: $139.50

Year to date spending: $1,065.03
Year to date savings: $1,818.51

I stopped into Fred Meyer and picked up some last minute food items for a BSU Football BBQ. Really unlike me, but I found buns for .59, and I had to get in on the .50 Fred Meyer beans. So it worked out well.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $96.98
Savings this week: $246.19

Spending for September: $116.37
Savings for September: $370.94

Year to date spending: $1661.92
Year to date savings: $3270.69

We hit the bread store this week, and also got some delicious Fries and Chicken Strips from Zaycon foods! At the bread store we got 14 loaves of bread for $11.66, including tax. This is about 2 months worth of bread for us Normal Walmart price for Franz bread is between $2.50-$3.99 per loaf!! We paid $0.83!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Budget Challenge {Week 36}

Monica — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:41 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $46.06
Savings this week: $134.50

Spending for September: $46.06
Savings for September: $134.50

Year to date spending: $1,052.23
Year to date savings: $1,813.51

I had fun this week at the Albertsons round up event, which is still happening through 9/11. I also went to Fred Meyer. I am kinda catching up on my lack of stockpiling in August. My kids are sure taking advantage of the yogurt stockpile I have from the last two weeks. I have had to place limits on yogurt at our house.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $19.51
Savings this week: $124.75

Spending for September: $19.51
Savings for September: $124.75

Year to date spending: $1565.06
Year to date savings: $3024.50

Yes!!! Over THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS in savings!!!! I LOVE coupons!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Our August Giveaway Winner is Lauren H! Congratulations Lauren. Comment on this post to claim your gift card.

Budget Challenge {Week 35} Giveaway Winner!

Monica — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 00:00:46 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $67.89
Savings this week: $289.75

Spending for August: $67.89
Savings for August: $289.75

Year to date spending: $1,006.17
Year to date savings: $1,679.01

I made up for some of my lack of coupoing this week! I went to Albertsons twice for double coupon deals! I also got a few staples at Costco and used some of my coupons that Albertsons does not carry products for at Walmart.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $21.96
Savings this week: $218.39

Spending for August: $342.44
Savings for August: $930.73

Year to date spending: $1545.55
Year to date savings: $2899.75

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Our August Giveaway Winner is Lauren H! Congratulations Lauren. Comment on this post to claim your gift card.

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 34}

Monica — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 02:00:34 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $0

Spending for August: $0
Savings for August: $0

Year to date spending: $938.28
Year to date savings: $1,389.26

I am back! But after 51 hours of driving, flying and airport delays I have been too tired to go to the store. Honestly I really did not have to. I had bread, meat and butter in my freezer, cheese in my fridge and my mother in law who stayed at our house while we were gone left us half a gallon of milk. So we made it through the weekend. I am defiantly heading to Albertsons for double coupon deals later today though!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $53.16
Savings this week: $157.99

Spending for August: $320.48
Savings for August: $712.34

Year to date spending: $1523.59
Year to date savings: $2681.36

Well, there goes that budget! I knew it would, but I’m over $120 OVER BUDGET for the month! And we still have one week left! And I’ve already spent over $25 this week at Albertsons and Walgreens. So we are talking at least $150 over budget! BUT, since I’ve been under budget for the last several months, I still have about $50 without being over for the year!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 33}

Monica — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 23:00:07 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $0

Spending for August: $0
Savings for August: $0

Year to date spending: $938.28
Year to date savings: $1,389.26

I am on VACATION! No grocery shopping for me. We are in the Philippines. If I get a chance to log in I will tell you what it is like and what we are buying for food. I am missing back to school deals!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $90.78
Savings this week: $411.65

Spending for August: $267.32
Savings for August: $554.35

Year to date spending: $1470.43
Year to date savings: $2523.37

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 32}

Monica — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 02:00:39 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $0

Spending for August: $0
Savings for August: $0

Year to date spending: $938.28
Year to date savings: $1,389.26

I avoided the store this week and tried to use up all the food in my fridge. We are going on a 13 day trip and I did not want any of my food to spoil. I am bummed that I will be missing doubles and round-ups and Albertsons!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $35.30
Savings this week: $74.06

Spending for August: $176.54
Savings for August: $142.70

Year to date spending: $1379.65
Year to date savings: $2111.72

I’m not going to be under my “monthly” budget for August. I’m warning you now. I’m probably going to be WAY over. Our fridge is empty and Albertsons Double Coupons ROCK! But, because I’m so far under budget for the year (I have a little over $200 extra), I’m not stressed. Check out some of my shopping trips to see how I’m doing it.

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here…

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 30 & 31}

Monica — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 13:00:12 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how some of the fabs are doing…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending last two weeks (30, 31): $0
Savings last two weeks (30, 31) : $0

Spending For July: $108.02
Savings For July: $220.05

Spending for August: $0
Savings for August: $0

Year to date spending: $938.28
Year to date savings: $1,389.26

I have been out of town a lot and relying on my garden and stockpile for most of my cooking at home. So I have actually not even been to the store in two weeks. I will be heading there tomorrow for a few deals and so basics. Having bread in my freezer, veggies in the garden and lots of milk in my fridge has helped me to avoid the store. I was also impressed to find that my husband made powdered milk while I was gone and did not even go the the grocery store.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending last week (30): $37.18
Savings last week (30) : $45.20

Spending this week (31) : $141.24
Savings this week (31) : $68.64

Spending For July: $157.01
Savings For July: $307.10

Spending for August: $141.24
Savings for August: $68.64

Year to date spending: $1344.35
Year to date savings: $2037.66

Much like Monica, I’ve been pretty busy over the last two weeks, so I’ve been pretty much living out of my pantry and freezer, and just buying some basic produce at the grocery store (Yikes! I went to Costco-for groceries, I only bought milk, blueberries, and avocados for a total of $14.73). We did however order a case of Zaycon Beef, which is the big expense last week. I LOVE their beef! I’m super excited to still be $255.65 UNDER budget (8 months times $200 per month = $1600) WOO HOO!!!! Plus I’ve passed the $2000 in savings mark!!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

We have a July Winner:

Lucky number 13. Amber B you are our lucky winner. Leave a comment on this post to claim your $20 amazon gift card.

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 29}

Monica — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:16 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $37.47

Savings this week: $56.05

Spending For July : $108.02
Savings For July: $220.05

Year to date spending: $938.28
Year to date savings: $1,389.26

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $33.72
Savings this week: $138.14

Spending For July: $117.80
Savings For July: $255.88

Year to date spending: $1163.90
Year to date savings: $1917.80

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Find out what happened to Amber’s budget.

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 28}

Cathy of Fabulessly Frugal — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 23:30:20 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $19.02
Savings this week: $12.00

Spending For July : $70.55
Savings For July: $164.00

Year to date spending: $900.81
Year to date savings: $1,333.21

Last week, the only place I shopped was Fred Meyer. I did not even take in any coupons. I simply picked up the ad and used the store coupons to get eggs for $0.99, bread for $1.33 and water for $1.99 per 24 pk! Easy peasy quick 10 minute trip.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $42.23
Savings this week: $38.50

Spending For July: $84.08
Savings For July: $117.74

Year to date spending: $1130.18
Year to date savings: $1779.66

We’ve been doing a lot of sandwiches, cereal, salads, etc… things that don’t require cooking because we only have AC in one room and I’m not willing to turn on the stove and heat up the house I’d love to hear your “no heat required” recipes! email me at becky @ fabulesslyfrugal.com.

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $
Savings this week: $

Spending For July: $
Savings For July: $

Year to date spending: $
Year to date savings: $

Okay guys, truth time. You see all those blanks up there? Well they are going to stay that way for awhile! I’m in a couponing slump. As in, I’m not couponing right now. I suppose you could say I’m at a point in couponing when I’m living on my stockpile and rarely purchasing anything new with coupons, and that would be half truth. I have a pretty hearty stockpile of foods and toiletries I’m relying on, and also a freezer full of salmon, beef, chicken and pork I purchased in bulk. We’ve basically been grilling meat, harvesting veggies from our garden and picking up fruit at local farmers markets. Doesn’t leave much room for couponing right now.

So I’m calling it, at least for the summer. I’ll reassess come fall and see where I’m at. Because we’ve switched to a Paleo lifestyle, there are fewer opportunities to coupon, although we do give you a lot of pointers on how to do so in our 5 Jamber installments! So until then, enjoy your summer and happy couponing!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 27}

Monica — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 23:30:06 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $51.53
Savings this week: $157.00

Spending For July : $51.53
Savings For July: $157.00

Year to date spending: $881.79
Year to date savings: $1,321.21

Spent $22.89 at Albertsons. Then I went back to Albertsons and spent $4.44 and also shopped the promo at Fred Meyer and spent $24.20. I could not miss the ice cream promo!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $41.85
Savings this week: $79.24

Spending For July: $41.85
Savings For July: $79.24

Year to date spending: $1087.95
Year to date savings: $1741.16

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $189.11
Savings this week: $49.80

Spending For July: $189.11
Savings For July: $49.80

Year to date spending: $2054.38
Year to date savings: $1495.93

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 26}

Monica — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 03:28:20 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $62.01

Savings this week: $98.75

Spending For June : $132.41
Savings For June: $286.10

Year to date spending: $830.26
Year to date savings: $1,164.21

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $13.45
Savings this week: $70.95

Spending For June: $93.64
Savings For June: $110.51

Year to date spending: $1059.55
Year to date savings: $1732.87

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $107.12
Savings this week: $32.10

Spending For June: $277.63
Savings For June: $230.43

Year to date spending: $1865.27
Year to date savings: $1446.13

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s, and be entered to win our monthly $20 amazon gift card drawing.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 25} Over $1,000 Savings with Coupons!

Monica — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 23:30:07 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

We hope you will join us! Set a goal today and get on the path to taking control of your grocery budget!

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $25.20

Savings this week: $141.50

Spending For June : $70.40
Savings For June: $187.35

Year to date spending: $768.25
Year to date savings: $1,065.46

It is a fun week for me because I reached my $1,000 mark. I have saved more than $1,000 with coupons so far this year! This week I shopped at the Fred Meyer grand opening in Eagle and I shopped at Albertsons and used my free grocery money from buying Lowes, and Kohls gift cards!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $26.32
Savings this week: $51.28

Spending For June: $93.64
Savings For June: $110.51

Year to date spending: $1046.10
Year to date savings: $1661.92

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $107.12
Savings this week: $32.10

Spending For June: $277.63
Savings For June: $230.43

Year to date spending: $1865.27
Year to date savings: $1446.13

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s. Share your email if you want to enter to win our $20 Amazon gift card giveaway… your email will be hidden, but all other answers will be public. When entering your numbers use the amount you spent last week. Sunday-Saturday.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 24}

Cathy of Fabulessly Frugal — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 23:30:56 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $24.51
Savings this week: $16.00

Spending For June : $45.20
Savings For June: $46.15

Year to date spending: $743.05
Year to date savings: $923.96

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $
Savings this week: $

Spending For June: $
Savings For June: $

Year to date spending: $
Year to date savings: $

Amber: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $77.21
Savings this week: $40.10

Spending For June: $170.51
Savings For June: $198.33

Year to date spending: $1758.15
Year to date savings: $1414.03

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s. When entering your numbers use the amount you spent last week. Sunday-Saturday.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

You can find the Budget Challenge any time! It’s under “Fabulous Features” on the navigation bar!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Grocery Budget Challenge {Week 23}

Monica — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 21:30:03 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Did you know we have a weekly challenge going? Lucky for you, it’s not too late to join! Here are the details about our 2012 Grocery Budget Challenge. Even if you are not yet using coupons you need to start saving by setting some goals! We are going to take a break from the Amazon gift card prize until we see more interest in entering the challenge.

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $12.79
Savings this week: $14.80

Spending For June : $20.69
Savings For June: $30.15

Year to date spending: $697.85
Year to date savings: $877.81

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $18.66
Savings this week: $3 (plus Bountiful Basket Savings)

Spending For June: $27.66
Savings For June: $48.91

Year to date spending: $980.12
Year to date savings: $1600.32

We got a Bountiful Basket for the first time in several weeks this past week! It was amazing! $16.50 for 2 pineapples, 1 melon, 7 plums, 8 nectarines, 8 apples, 6 bananas, 4 mango’s, 5 tomatoes, 3 acorn squash, 2 cucumbers, romaine lettuce, celery, and kale! And our cherry trees are GOING NUTS! We are loving the summer produce!

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $93.30
Savings this week: $158.23

Spending For June: $93.30
Savings For June: $158.23

Year to date spending: $1680.94
Year to date savings: $1373.93

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#2 – Complete the form below with your #’s. When entering your numbers use the amount you spent last week. Sunday-Saturday.

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

#4 – Come back next week: we’ll announce a winner from the entries AND we’ll give you another chance to submit your spending and saving!

Last weeks winner…

Congratulations Stephanie M! Comment on this post to claim your prize, then I will be able to send you an email to get your shipping address!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Budget Challenge {Week 22}

Cathy of Fabulessly Frugal — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:00:02 +0000

We want to encourage you to make and stick to your grcoery budget!

But we need more involvement to know that taking the time and money to run this feature is worth it! Share this with your friends and give us a reason to keep doing this! Let’s see if we can get more entries in this week’s challenge! It’s never too late to start!

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $7.90
Savings this week: $15.35

Spending For May: $7.90
Savings For May: $15.35

Year to date spending: $697.85
Year to date savings: $877.81

The only deal I did this last week was the meat deal at Albertsons, but I am going to take advantage of Albertsons double deals tonight!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $9.00
Savings this week: $45.91

Spending For June: $?
Savings For June: $?

Year to date spending: $961.46
Year to date savings: $1597.32

We moved about 2 weeks ago. About 2 days into our new house the electricity stopped working in the kitchen. I could only run one appliance… fridge, microwave, stove, washer/dryer, crock pot, can opener, etc at a time. That appliance had to be less than 600 watts… Everything was out . What we have been able to make was sandwiches, bagels, cold cereal, stuff like that. So, we have been eating out. A lot. Way more that we have in the last 12 months combined! My sweet husband decided to throw the food budget out the window for the past two weeks and call it “moving expenses”. He didn’t allow me to keep receipts or track what we were spending. We had to eat, and we couldn’t do that at our new home. So, I know how much I paid for the shopping trips I blogged about. That’s it. We’re back in frugal/stockpiling mode, and BOY is it nice to be able to finally blow dry my hair or cook a meal on the stove without worrying about the fuses (yep, not circuit breakers) blowing!

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $0

Spending For June: $0
Savings For June: $0

Year to date spending: $1587.64
Year to date savings: $1215.70

We had plenty of BBQ leftovers & a full fridge to get us through this whole week without shopping! I am heading doublers shopping tonight & I now have a VERY empty fridge, so next week’s budget might be a tad bit blown!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}
Complete the form below with your #’s. Share your email if you want to enter to win our $20 Amazon gift card giveaway… your email will be hidden, but all other answers will be public. When entering your numbers use the amount you spent last week. Sunday-Saturday.
View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!
Come back next week: we’ll announce a winner from the entries AND we’ll give you another chance to submit your spending and saving!

Last weeks winner…

Congratulations Amber! Comment on this post to claim your prize, then I will be able to send you an email to get your shipping address!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Budget Challenge {Week 21}

Monica — Mon, 28 May 2012 23:30:43 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $18.95
Savings this week: $50.05

Spending For May: $104.80
Savings For May: $112.55

Year to date spending: $689.95
Year to date savings: $862.46

I went to Albertsons this week to get the double coupon deals and get ready for summer BBQ’s. You can see some of what I bought here.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $92.36
Savings this week: $201.98

Spending For May: $173.68
Savings For May: $330.52

Year to date spending: $952.46
Year to date savings: $1,551.41

Thanks to the Fred Meyers sale I finally got my stockpile back up to where I like it. Plus, we’ve crossed the $1500 saved mark, which is VERY cool (I’ve saved more than $300 per month, and am $47.54 under budget for the year!)

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $25

Spending this week: $199.83
Savings this week: $181.50

Spending For May: $425.35
Savings For May: $287.87

Year to date spending: $1587.64
Year to date savings: $1215.70

WOWZA! I went a little crazy this week buying steak like MAD. We had 2 BBQs at our house and then my hubby & I went all out on an anniversary dinner. To say I went a little over budget is an understatement! But I don’t regret one tasty morsel!!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

#4 – Come back next week: we’ll announce a winner from the entries AND we’ll give you another chance to submit your spending and saving!

Last weeks winner…

Congratulations Lauren H.! Comment on this post to claim your prize, then I will be able to send you an email to get your shipping address!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Budget Challenge 2012 {Week 20}

Cathy of Fabulessly Frugal — Mon, 21 May 2012 23:30:31 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $27.10
Savings this week: $32.50

Spending For May: $85.85
Savings For May: $62.50

Year to date spending: $671.54
Year to date savings: $812.41

I had lot’s of fun at the Fred Meyer Founders Day Sale! That is where I did all of my shopping this week. I stocked up on cheese that does not expire until next year. I bought chips for upcoming summer camping trips and BBQ’s. I got bread, butter, ice cream and peanut butter too. I also stopped in to Walgreens and spent .72 and saved 12!

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $.02
Savings this week: $6.52

Spending For May: $81.32
Savings For May: $128.54

Year to date spending: $860.10
Year to date savings: $1349.43

Since we moved this past weekend, I didn’t do much except pack

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $148.07
Savings this week: $26.36

Spending For May: $225.52
Savings For May: $106.37

Year to date spending: $1387.81
Year to date savings: $1034.20

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

#4 – Come back next week: we’ll announce a winner from the entries AND we’ll give you another chance to submit your spending and saving!

Last weeks winner…

Congratulations Amber! Comment on this post to claim your prize, then I will be able to send you an email to get your shipping address!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Budget Challenge 2012 {Week 19}

Monica — Mon, 14 May 2012 23:30:48 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $0
Savings this week: $0.00

Spending For May: $58.75
Savings For May: $30

Year to date spending: $585.69
Year to date savings: $749.91

Last time when we had double coupons I printed two milk coupons from every computer and stocked up on milk enough to last me two weeks. This way I would not have to go to the store even for milk. So I spent nothing this week. Kind of nice to cook from my stockpile and not go to the store.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $13.95
Savings this week: $27.41

Spending For May: $81.30
Savings For May: $122.02

Year to date spending: $860.08
Year to date savings: $1342.91

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $59.43
Savings this week: $13.50

Spending For May: $77.45
Savings For May: $80.01

Year to date spending: $1162.29
Year to date savings: $927.83

I was in charge of a school carnival at my daughters’ school this week, so while I did spend over $2,000, I will be reimbursed for all but $59.43 of it. Shopping for said carnival like a mad woman this week did wear me out a bit, so I might be avoiding grocery shopping at all costs next week!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

#4 – Come back next week: we’ll announce a winner from the entries AND we’ll give you another chance to submit your spending and saving!

Last weeks winner…

Congratulations Janine! Comment on this post to claim your prize, then I will be able to send you an email to get your shipping address!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Budget Challenge 2012 {Week 18}

Monica — Mon, 07 May 2012 23:30:31 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $58.75
Savings this week: $30.00

Spending For May: $58.75
Savings For May: $30

Year to date spending: $585.69
Year to date savings: $749.91

This week I went to Albertsons and used a bunch of my milk coupons. I bought 6 gallons of milk, 2 bottles of detergent, 2 bottles of fabric softener, 1 spice pack, 2 bags of Organic corn chips, and 2 4-packs of yogurt and only spent $15.06 including tax. My plan was to make this my only shopping trip and just cook from my stockpile and not go to the store again. Well the Today Show wanted us to take them shopping on Thursday so I spent $14.59 at WinCo and picked up strawberries, asparagus, oranges, bread, taco seasoning, Tabasco sauce, V-8 , carrots and a lime. Today I needed to get some more bread and eggs so I also snagged strawberries, watermelon and a ridiculously delicious sweet roll creation. Note to self, never go grocery shopping when you are hungry. I spent $29.10 at Costco.

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $67.36
Savings this week: $94.91

Spending For May: $67.36
Savings For May: $94.91

Year to date spending: $846.13
Year to date savings: $1315.50

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $18.02
Savings this week: $66.51

Spending For May: $18.02
Savings For May: $66.51

Year to date spending: $1102.86
Year to date savings: $914.33

I just did some double shopping at Albertsons and ate what was left of our fresh fruits & veggies from last week. Now my fridge/fruit bowl is virtually bare, so this next week you might see me go a wee bit over budget!!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

#4 – Come back next week: we’ll announce a winner from the entries AND we’ll give you another chance to submit your spending and saving!

Last weeks winner…

Congratulations Brenda! Comment on this post to claim your prize, then I will be able to send you an email to get your shipping address!

Enter your goal and spending here:

See how other Fab FruGALs or Fruguys are doing here…

Budget Challenge 2012 {Week 17}

Monica — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 23:30:32 +0000

How are you doing with your Grocery Budget?

Here is how the fabs are doing on their budget…

Monica: Feeding a family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $150

Spending this week: $0.00
Savings this week: $0.00

Spending For April: $111.02
Savings For April: $196.15

Year to date spending: $526.94
Year to date savings: $719.58

Becky: Feeding a family of 3

Monthly grocery budget: $200

Spending this week: $70.85
Savings this week: $84.42

Spending For April: $166.18
Savings For April: $259.35

Year to date spending: $778.78
Year to date savings: $1220.89

Bountiful Baskets had 8 lbs of Strawberries for $11 this week, so I spent $27.50 instead of my normal $16.50… Oh, but those berries are beautiful!

Amber: Feeding Family of 4

Monthly grocery budget: $250

Spending this week: $80.14
Savings this week: $27.14

Spending For April: $333.96
Savings For April: $122.37

Year to date spending: $1084.84
Year to date savings: $847.82

Because I’ve changed so much about how I’m eating and feeding my family (read all about how my bestie & I have Paleoized our lives HERE), my monthly budget is no longer realistic. Buying fresh fruits/veggies/meats and nothing processed definitely changes things. I’m going to wait a few months to see what I’m spending before I adjust my budget, but I’m still seeing about a 37% savings by using coupons and effectively shopping sales. What I will say is this: I would spend far more than the $83 I went over budget to feel this fantastic. It’s money well spent in my opinion!

So are you ready to track your spending and join our challenge?

#1 – Pick a monthly grocery budget amount. {Tips for setting a budget goal}

#3- View the results below and see what sort of goals other Fabulessly Frugal readers are setting!

#4 – Come back next week: we’ll announce a winner from the entries AND we’ll give you another chance to submit your spending and saving!

Last weeks winner…

Congratulations April! Comment on this post to claim your prize, then I will be able to send you an email to get your shipping address!