How NOT to Shop

Today I decided to get in on the Staples deals.  So, Amanda, Stephen, & I headed out around noon (we are a bit slow going).  First we stopped at CVS, since those deals go super fast.  We were able to find most of the deals, but had to ask about the backpacks.  I really wanted to use my $5 off $30 purchase coupon and the backpacks would round out my total nicely.  They had them in back, but were not putting out just yet.  The clerk very nicely brought some up front for me, though.  I had my coupons and ECBs out and reached in my small coupon folder to get my $5 off $30 coupon and decided to pull out my remaining ECBs, or so I thought.  See, I have a card for Megan as I am trying to get her acclimated to how CVS works.  I had our ECBs in separate sections, but when I reached in I inadvertantly grabbed her ECBs and mixed them with mine.  How do I know this?  Well, some of the ECBs started to beep.  No biggie, except some of the beeps were for MY ECBs.  Odd.  So, now our ECBs are all screwy. Interesting thought, maybe ECBs for one card will work on another as long as that card did not max out on the particular ECB deal.  I will research a bit further.

Then it is off to Bath & Body Works.  I buy 3 body sprays and some cellulite firming cream (why not?).  The body sprays are buy 2 get 1 free or buy 3 get 2 free.  The cream was part of the True Blue line and free with a $15 or more purchase (see my post here).  Amanda gets two of the sprays so she is happy.  Amanda buys 2 small hand lotions and a lip item.  The hand lotions are $4 for 1 or $5 for 2 and she used the free lip item coupon (see my post here).  No problems here.

Off to Staples.  Amanda gets a new book bag (free after Staples Rewards).  We also purchased all the free after rebate items.  Not a bad trip here.  So, we head home with a stop off at Kroger for a few items.  Here is where I really lose it.  I thought I was getting 10 of the mega deal items, but missed it by 4!  Seriously?  So, I could have bought 4 more items for the same cost if I would have been paying attention.  Not only that, but I do not get my stinking gum free!  Instead they charge me half price for 2 gums and then using my BOGO free coupon I get 1 free and 1 half price.  I love Kroger, but they really have to learn the difference between half off and buy one get one.

My point.  Simple.  Make sure you have a list (and take it with you).  My list was sitting on the kitchen counter.  Duh!  Have your coupons organized.  This will help avoid the confusing of the ECBs like I did today.   And most importantly, know the deals.  I am really annoyed with myself for not doing this.  Sigh.