*REVIEW* All You Back to School Special Issue

Have I mentioned how much I love being a #crowdtapper?!  I get to voice my opinion about products that mean a lot to my family & I.  In exchange, I have chances to win gift cards and other great prizes.  This month, I was selected for a Sample & Share from Crowdtap and All You magazine (which is by far, the BEST magazine out there!)

This issue has a lot of great information about getting organized before starting the school year, ways to save money for back to school, and 26 delicious looking recipes!

I can't wait until I can do one of my favorite DIY projects from this issue.  Turning a closet into a workstation!  (Sounds great, right?)  Being a student myself, it's one of those projects that would work great for our family.  Doing homework at the kitchen table just isn't the same as having a desk!

There are a lot of great organizing tips in this issue as well.  I'm always looking for new ways to organize everything {If only my house was as organized as you would think from viewing my Pinterest board}

I hope that ya'll have a great weekend...and if you get the chance (and haven't already), subscribe to All you magazine!  You don't get the special issues with a subscription, but they are worth the price you pay in stores.  Also check out Crowdtap to become a part of their great program.

Be blessed.

TEAL is the new black.

Unless you are a family member or a very close friend of mine, then you don't know my struggles of infertility and dealing with PCOS.  For those who don't know what PCOS is, it's PolyCystic Ovarian Syndrome, and it affects more women than you may know.

September is PCOS Awareness month and I wanted to share MY story with you.  It's not going to be pretty and I'm not going to sugar coat anything.  Over the last couple of years, I have learned so much more about this disease (and YES, that's what it is!...again, not sugar coating it for you) and how it not only affects me, but other women.  I'm a member of a discussion forum specifically for women with PCOS, especially those who are TTC (trying to conceive).  That is where the infertility comes in.  Having PCOS doesn't mean that you will never have children; it just means that you will struggle to get pregnant, and you may not be able to do it naturally.  That is the part I hate the most.

My story begins at the age of 14 or 15 (I just remember being a freshman in high school) and I had started having irregular periods.  I made an appointment with a local OB/GYN who was female (because I was more comfortable with women doctors).  After a routine pap, the only thing I remember her telling me was that I needed to have surgery to have my ovaries removed.  At that age, that's not what a girl wants to hear...especially if at some point in her life she wants to have children.  I refused, left...and never went back.  Fast forward to 2007 (at the age of 20) and I decided to once again give an OB/GYN a shot to see why my periods were irregular..and when Mother Nature did decide to visit, she made me suffer for anywhere from 9-12 days!  I had seen my family doctor for routine paps yearly but apparently they didn't know what was going on either.

This time, I made an appointment with the man who delivered me, and was my mother's doctor for years.  Since my family doctor had already done my pap for that year, and it came back abnormal, my ob/gyn decided he wanted to do an ultrasound of my reproductive system to see what was going on.  After it was done, he informed me that I had PCOS and gave me a lot of information about how it affects women of the child-bearing age and gave me some pointers of things I could do to make living with it easier.  He also recommended a book called PCOS: The Hidden Epidemic by a local reproductive endocrinologist.  I immediately purchased the book, read it cover to cover with highlighter in hand, and learned so much more about what was going on with my body.

Eventually, my ob/gyn retired after years of practicing.  I had to find a new doctor to keep a check on everything...but finding one who would live up to the great treatment I had been receiving was proving more difficult than I thought!  I eventually took the recommendation of a friend and made an appointment with a doctor who specializes in high risk pregnancies as well (in case I would become pregnant).  Upon my first visit, I filled out all of the usual paperwork and waited to be called back to the examining room.  When this doctor entered the room, he informed me that I had PCOS (DUH!!) but never once examined me, asked me any questions about if anything was bothering me, any pain...nothing!  All he asked was did I know what PCOS was?  Um, excuse me but I could probably school you in this!  Then, he sent me on my way with an appointment for blood work.  Really?  That's all I get from the guy who my FRIEND recommended?!?!?  $125 office visit bill later...still nothing I didn't know already, no help, no information..NOTHING!  I did go back for the blood work...then after those results didn't come back perfect, he wanted more.  I simply said, screw this...I'm not going to continue paying out of my pocket and never getting any answers.  So, after I paid for the services, I never went back.

After dealing with PCOS and all it's misery for about 3 years, I decided to just start going to my local health department since they based your co-pay upon income, and I didn't have health insurance.  The two times I went for paps weren't much better.  All I got was a prescription for Provera, to help me have a period.  Nothing more, nothing less.

My boyfriend and I at this point were already TTC when I went to the health department.  Since they were not helping any and pretty much could answer none of my questions, I knew it was time for a new doctor.

Fast forward a few months...and I was tired of the run around from doctors.  I decided to make an appointment with an ob/gyn who has been in our town for about 30 years now.  I mean, experience has to mean something right?  At my first appointment, he did a routine pap and then talked with me afterwards.  Since we are TTC, I was told that he would help us all he could and that we should be pregnant within 6-12 months (YAY!)  I was given Provera (to help regulate periods), Metformin (to keep my insulin resistance in check...one of those joys of PCOS..NOT!) and Aldactone for the hirsutism (google it!)  I was told they would call me with my pap results and low and behold in a few days, I got that call!  Since my pap was abnormal, he wanted to do a biopsy as well as send me for blood work.  I got the blood work done, went and had the biopsy done, and got my results within a week!  My biopsy was a little abnormal but nothing to be worried about.  I was instructed to stay on the prescriptions until my next appointment (in 6 months) and then we'd go from there.

I just went for my 6 month follow up this week.  Everything is the same but since we are not pregnant 6 months later, I am getting to try a new vitamin out for women with PCOS that helps them to become pregnant.  It's called Pregnitude, and I'll be starting it as soon as it arrives!  (Since it's a vitamin, you don't need a prescription)  All of my other prescriptions stayed the same...and unless we get pregnant before then, I don't have another appointment until February.  However, we got the all clear to keep trying!!  If unsuccessful, we'll just keep going from there until it happens.

This entire disease sucks, but the worst part is seeing every one of our friends and family members become pregnant with no issues whatsoever.  I can't begin to tell you how many times I hear "it will happen" and I just want to slap somebody across the face!  If you have never walked a mile in my shoes and you haven't been on this journey too, please don't act like you know what is going on because let's face it, YOU HAVE NO CLUE!!!  Just because you had to take fertility drugs, isn't the same!  I know some doctors will give them to you no matter what but until you have tried (unsuccessfully) for a year, then you are NOT considered to be infertile.

If you are looking for a discussion forum about PCOS, please go visit Soul Cysters and meet some of the ladies who know EXACTLY what you are going through!

More important than anything, keep your head up and do not let this disease steal your shine!

Be blessed.

Day 3 of college

How is everyone doing this evening?!  Today was my 3rd day at college...EVER!  Yep, 26 years old..and just starting college.  I'm actually pretty proud of myself.  I went straight out of high school and into the work force, where I spent 7 long years in retail at a place that should simply be known as hell (Wal-Mart).  Am I thankful I had a job? Yes.  Did it allow me to purchase a house at the age of 21? Yes.  Did I enjoy it? No.  That's a whole other blog in itself...

However, it kept me from pursuing my career and furthering my education.  The management team simply would not work with me to be able to attend college and work.  As many of you know, last year, I lost my job.  I spent a little over a year at home before deciding that this would be the year I went to college and got my education...the way I should have 8 years ago!

Today was my 3rd day.  I have 6 classes this semester, 3 of which are online.  I actually must say, I'M LOVING IT!!!!  I was so nervous, yet excited...but more nervous than anything.  I'm ahead on all my work for every class and I had most of my assignments completed after the first day!  Now, I have 4 tests tomorrow so that may be the day I hate it and just want to give up.

I just wanted to touch base and see how everyone was doing with their stockpile, couponing and everything else!  I'll try to get some coupon blogs posted this weekend (it just depends on my homework status by then!)

Be blessed :)

REVIEW: Woolite for Darks

A few weeks ago, you could request a sample of Woolite darks laundry detergent.  (I can't remember the link but if I find it again, I'll share it)  I always request samples, especially for products that I've never tried before.  What better way to see if you like something, without having to pay for it and then not liking it? 

This sample came with a $3/1 coupon (that I forgot about and let expire *tear*) and I put the sample in my laundry room until I had enough dark clothes gathered up to wash.  As most of you know, my hubby has to have black polo shirts for work (which are impossible to find!) and yesterday, he came home with 3 brand new black shirts that I needed to wash!  Is it sad that I got excited about using my free sample of detergent?!

This is supposed to be an easy open pack and it has a place to tear it open.  I just think they child proofed it or something, because I had to cut it open.  That's besides the point!  This package is one load (I think it could have been 2 loads) and after putting it in the washer, it began to get sudsy immediately.  I put the laundry in..then played the waiting game.

When the washer had done it's duty, I went to put the clothes in the dryer.  This detergent made these rough polo shirts so soft!!!  I was just going to be happy if it got them clean (ya know, that new shirt funk) but I was amazed at how soft they were.  Not to mention, they smelled great.  I love laundry detergent that cleans well and has a great smell.  Oh & have I mentioned how pretty the package is?!?  I love the colors together on the pack!!

I highly recommend this product for dark clothes.  I love Woolite brand and I'm glad I got this sample to try.  Will I purchase Woolite darks?  If I can find it for less than $5 a bottle, yes.  I don't like paying a large amount for laundry detergent (I do make homemade laundry detergent but will buy others for $1.50 or less)  The only downside to this is the price.  Woolite is such a great brand, but it's just expensive.  Maybe I can find a clearance sale & pair it with a coupon!  I will definitely be contacting Woolite to brag on this product!

Have a blessed evening guys!  & remember #KeepCalmandCoupon

Keep Calm & Coupon

You can also find me on Instagram!

I've gotta get the hang of this!

I'm such a slacker!  I created this blog to keep everyone updated on projects and coupon deals, etc.  This is only my third post so far....I really keep forgetting that I have this blog!  Sad, right?!  I just wanted to post a few updates & goals I made for myself.

As most of you know, I'm your local Saline Ambassador/Boogie Wipe distributor.  I will be receiving my new kit shortly, and will have lots of great things to share with ya'll!  I'm so excited!!! :D  This looks to be the best kit yet!

I start college on the 15th (just a short week away!) and I'm so excited to start this journey to furthering my education.  Yes, I'm nervous too...I've been out of high school for 8 years now!  I have set a few goals for myself, as well as this blog.  I'd like to make at least 3 posts a week, whether it be from projects, coupon trips or just everyday life.

A few of you have been asking if I have any tips for getting started couponing.  I have plenty (idea for new blog post!) but if you would like to join my Facebook group page, Keep Calm & Coupon then feel free to join.  It's a local group (for the most part) but we will help anyone out!  I'm not the only one who posts there, a lot of wonderful ladies help me out daily.  Feel free to post your questions, comments, concerns, freebies, giveaways, etc.  This is what the couponing community is about:  HELPING EACH OTHER!

I'll try to get the couponing blog posted tomorrow.  Have a wonderful night guys <3
Blessings!

Oh no!...She broke out the coupons.

I know I really shouldn't let it...but this has been irking me for a while now!  The stares, the rude comments, the eye rolling...yes, we've all seen it..the OMG, she's a COUPONER!


Times are hard.  People are out of work.  In NC, most people have lost their unemployment benefits, federal food assistance is behind by at least three months (and people's benefits are being cut) and the food pantries aren't getting donations they need.  WHY on Earth would anybody have a problem with someone trying to save money to stretch their dollar a little further?  Believe me, a dollar doesn't go far.  Why would I pay that $1 for toothpaste (that my family needs) when I could use a coupon, get it free, and use that $1 to pay for things like meat and produce.

I worked retail for 7 years, at a major chain store.  I absolutely LOVED seeing people save money!  Whether it be $.50 or $50...it was a great feeling for me, to watch them save money that they could use for other things their family needed (that may not have a coupon or can be bought cheap)

I am one of the nicest people you will ever meet.  I will gladly share my coupons and help anyone learn how to save money...but you best believe that if you're going to stand behind me in line and roll your eyes and mumble under your breath (Please just say it to my face so I can laugh in yours when you pay double what I do in the checkout line) then you better know that I'm breaking out every coupon I can for items in my buggy (it's the South hun, it's a buggy not a cart) and I WILL take my sweet precious time about doing it.

Has anyone else had any bad experiences, just because you're a couponer?!

 

The lady behind the blog...

Who am I?  My name is Jennifer...and I'm probably the most frugal person I know, other than my mama.  (Hey, I get it honest!)  I'm a 26 year old full-time college student, majoring in Medical Office Administration, who has a love for all things thrifty and money-saving!  Give me a thrift shop over a big retail store any day.  (If I MUST shop at one though, I'm a Target fanatic!)

I'm from the great state of North Carolina, and I call the mountains home.  I'm a daughter, a sister, a girlfriend (to the love of my life!) , a mama to 2 beautiful fur-babies (Daisy & Rocky), a god-mother to the three most precious children in the world (Salem, age 7..Traceton, age 6..and Madalyn, age 1)  I'm also an extreme couponer, a frugal gal, a thrift shop-a-holic, a DIYer and a lover of all things vintage.

When I say extreme couponer, I don't mean like the show.  I refuse to buy 75 things of mustard, when it's not gonna be used.  I do coupon to provide for my family.  It's not just a hobby to me, it's a way of life..and I'm like a mother bear protecting her cubs when it comes to my stockpile.  I believe in being frugal, not going out partying and blowing money.  I believe that we should make the most of what we have.  The economy is rough and times are hard, but just because we're not "rich" doesn't mean we don't have everything we need to live.  I'm sorry, but a new Coach purse and Gucci shoes are not needed to survive.  I prefer to do most things myself and Pinterest has become an addiction for me.  If you're a member, then you know all too well what I'm talking about.  If you aren't, you don't know what you're missing!

This blog was started to help everyone out on saving money, becoming more frugal but still having the best things in life, and just as a way for me to rant & rave when I need to ;)  I'll be doing product reviews, helping with any coupon questions you may have, posting some homemade cleaner recipes (along with photos of the process), posting recipes and just giving everyone a glimpse into my life!

Hope ya'll enjoy..& please tell your friends about me!

Love & Blessings