tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82344625927832668012024-03-05T09:57:00.531-05:00Not Martha Just ME :)My adventures in crafts and everything else...
Digital Storybooks, scrapbooking, card making, home decor, trash to treasure... ok almost everything. I love crafts.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-59039629201174445952012-05-04T00:20:00.000-04:002012-05-04T18:10:28.017-04:00FREE Premier Weekend & Contest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4ysss1GKOg1QLJWWWxtrKqObsg40GVl-kEMWIuCWDZxiFLxo33W9WVcYivQCFe9mWXsnHH6-Z-XTwPDDcijxN05ewS2mTMN8y6ngZPtNCtfC_YtHrsVoju6N7_Hv_4jSfpNXB8mshgDj/s1600/20120428-FreePremierWeekendHomeAd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4ysss1GKOg1QLJWWWxtrKqObsg40GVl-kEMWIuCWDZxiFLxo33W9WVcYivQCFe9mWXsnHH6-Z-XTwPDDcijxN05ewS2mTMN8y6ngZPtNCtfC_YtHrsVoju6N7_Hv_4jSfpNXB8mshgDj/s400/20120428-FreePremierWeekendHomeAd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Thats right its Back. FREE Premier weekend. This is your chance to check out what all the BUZZ is about. Just what does it feel like to have SOOOO much art at your finger tips without eating up your hard drive???<br />
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Create a free account at <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">www.DigitalStorybooks.com</a> and find out. Then contact me to get up to 50% off by joining club.<br />
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I will give away $1 for each entry up to $200 in publishing. Prize will be divided evenly between 4 entrants drawn at random. <br />
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First mandatory entry you must follow and subscribe to my blog.<br />
additional entries for liking my facebook page<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Digital-Storybooks-Heritgage-Makers-Independant-Consultant/300916815117">http://www.facebook.com/pages/Digital-Storybooks-Heritgage-Makers-Independant-Consultant/300916815117</a>,<br />
following me on twitter <a class="twitter-follow-button" data-show-count="false" href="https://twitter.com/notmarthajustme">Follow @notmarthajustme</a>,<br />
and <a href="http://pinterest.com/melissabruere/"><img alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" height="28" src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/about/buttons/follow-me-on-pinterest-button.png" width="169" /></a><br />
setting up a free account on my website, if you have a current account get 2 entries,<br />
Publish a project get 2 entries,<br />
Join ClubHM get 5 entries,<br />
become a consultant get 5 entries<br />
refer a friend who sets up a free account get 1 entry (they must comment that you referred them)<br />
if they join ClubHM get 5 entries<br />
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Please make a comment here for entry to count. example comment "Following you on twitter as xxxxx" <br />
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Contest ends when the free weekend officially ends. Any questions please ask before then.<br />
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Thanks MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-23808212736868715142012-02-14T12:23:00.001-05:002012-02-14T12:24:50.455-05:00Sunday Dinner- Easy Turkey dinner<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">Another easy meal i used to make for my Hubby and I when we first got married was an easy turkey dinner. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">Take deli turkey about 3-4 slices stacked on top of each other. (preferably low sodium) lay a slice of chees on top and a spoonful of prepared stuffing. now roll it up and lay in a microwave container. Make several rolls and then cover them with a jar or gravy.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">Because everything is precooked you only have to microwave for a few minutes until cheese melts and serve. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">This is also a great meal if you didnt eat all your deli meat and think it may go bad in the next few days. if it hasnt started showing signs of spoiling yet whip this up for dinner with whatever deli meat you have. I have done it with ham and salami and it was good too but watch out for the sodium.</span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 14px;">I like to serve mine over toast like an open face sandwich.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">Hope you enjoy this super quick meal today. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">Melissa</span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-29471511998264318592012-02-14T12:11:00.000-05:002012-02-14T12:11:24.498-05:00Sunday Dinner- Amazing Chicken MarinadeHers another wonderful chicken recipe. I came across this one on food.com when looking for easy dump chicken recipes. Dump chicken is basically a sauce you marinade the chicken in and then dump into a pan to cook. easy, simple recipes and it was perfect for my freezer cooking.<br />
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Rather then retype the whole recipe I am just posting the link to where i found it.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">One change i did was: <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222;">i used all lemon juice and regular mustard from the fridge cause thats what i had, and left out the black pepper because i didnt have any. Even my kids loved it and didnt need any dip for the chicken. which is great because they always use dip...</span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/amazing-chicken-marinade-29598">http://www.food.com/recipe/amazing-chicken-marinade-29598</a> <br />
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Hope you enjoy this one too.<br />
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MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-14992692355655496332012-02-14T12:02:00.000-05:002012-02-14T12:02:17.301-05:00Sunday Dinner- Bourbon ChickenSo as i said i have been doing some bulk cooking and freezing meals ahead. I came across this DUMP CHICKEN recipe that i love. it had tons of good reviews so i figured it was a good one to try and WOW. all the reviews were right. Tastes just like take out.<br />
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Rather then retype the whole recipe I figured i'd just post the link to the website i got it from. <br />
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Bourbon chicken. <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/bourbon-chicken-45809">http://www.food.com/recipe/bourbon-chicken-45809</a><br />
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One small change i did was to leave out the red pepper. I wanted my kids to eat it so it was a small sacrifice although my hubby and i definitely felt like we wanted to add some back in. :) I also left out some water in the sauce to make it thicker and added in a bit of cornstarch. <br />
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The taste was amazing and even the kids liked it. I made 3 batches and froze it ahead in ziploc freezer bags. Freeze them flat so they thaw quick. I just fill my sink with warm water and put the bag in. it thaws in about 15 minutes. Heat it up on the stove or microwave and serve over some rice with mixed veges. Now its quicker then ordering take out.<br />
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Enjoy,<br />
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MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-24815263993174990502012-02-14T10:56:00.000-05:002012-02-14T10:56:03.338-05:00Sunday Dinner- Cream Cheese Chicken<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">as I started nearing my due date for my third child i decided i needed to plan ahead some meals to make life easier. I attended a OAMC class (once a month cooking) and decided to implement a few ideas. I knew id never be able to cook 30 days of meals in one day but instead I started cooking 3 times what we were having for dinner and packing 2 meals for the freezer. This way worked for me. So whether your just looking for some new ideas or trying to plan ahead like me i hope you enjoy some of these new recipes. </div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><u><br />
</u></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><u>Cream Cheese Chicken</u>- came from a mom i know who does once a month cooking and my kids love it. This has a taste like chicken alfredo but is super easy.</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">In a crock pot mix an italian seasoning pack (usually used to make italian salad dressing), a can of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 8oz block of cream cheese (i used the lowfat kind). Cut up 2-3 chicken breasts into bite sized pieces and cook then serve over any pasta with the sauce. </div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I tripled the recipe (except for the italian seasoning i decided 2 packs was enough), steamed up tons of chicken in the big pan and then divided them into 3 (freeze 2 and eat 1 batch for dinner). It reheated nicely out of the freezer and all i had to cook up was noodles. Mix it up by adding different noodles each time. speghetti will be like an alfredo, add it to cooked zitti, macoroni, bowties, etc will be more like a hamburger helper meal. even egg noodles would be great.</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Enjoy,</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Melissa</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-29797911334870571802012-02-14T10:49:00.000-05:002012-02-14T10:49:29.891-05:00Sunday Dinner- Steak or Chicken roll ups<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><u>Steak roll ups</u></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><u><br />
</u></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Growing up my mom used to have us help plan and cook meals. We also were involved in 4-h where we would participate in an annual food competition. dont remember what it was called but every year we would have to plan out a complete meal and make at least one of the dishes for the judges to try. This was one of the recipes i made. </div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">get thin steaks (and pound flat to about 1/4 inch thin, using a meat tenderizer). lay a slice of ham and cheese on top and a spoonful of stuffing then roll up. Make one for each of you and bake at 350 in a casserole dish. I will admit I dont know how long it took to cook because i was doing other things but i think it was about 20 minutes i just checked it a few times until it looked cooked. I did end up microwaving the kids one a bit because i took it out too early and when cut i saw it was still red.. If you want to you can always stick it under the broiler for a bit to speed it up to. </div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">You can also so <u>stuffed chicken</u></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">just filet the chicken breast and stuff with anything. you could do ham and cheese, we like to do broccoli and cheese, My husband did it with broccoli and goat cheese once and it was great, (i have pictures but they dont look as good as it tasted). the last time i did it with feta and swiss with the broccoli. i covered and Baked at 400 until it was cooked. about 20 min again but depends on how thick your chicken is. then i took the lid off and broiled for about 5 min to brown the top. </div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">serve these with a side salad or veges and you've got a great meal. These do freeze easy too if you want to make extra and freeze ahead for another day. </div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Enjoy, </div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Melissa</div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-13638449929258149902011-08-30T09:11:00.001-04:002011-08-30T09:11:00.237-04:00Short Cut to view Heritage Makers Studio ArtEver wanted to see all the <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">Heritage Makers</a> Art in one convenient place?<br />
Someone recently posted this awesome short cut to our studio art browser.<br />
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click here to browse the <a href="http://studio.heritagemakers.com/studio/ArtContentViewerStandalone.html">Studio Art Collections</a><br />
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here you can look at the thumbnails of all our art collections or click on the collection to open and view each piece individually. Type in keywords to search for a specific theme or embellishment. What a time saver to help plan out a project and get ideas.<br />
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I dont remember who posted this link on facebook but Thanks SO much!!!<br />
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MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-38416078966403285192011-08-26T10:55:00.000-04:002011-08-26T10:55:00.743-04:00Heritage Makers OverviewI just got back from celebrating the 5year anniversary of <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">Heritage Makers</a>. Most of you have heard of my passion for amazing company but just in case you wandered here from another blog I thought Id post a quick overview of what <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">Heritage Makers</a> is.<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">I hope you will check out <a href="http://youtu.be/f-VN9uRk23c">this video (about 3 minutes</a>) and that maybe I can help you or someone you know in preserving the important moments in your life. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/f-VN9uRk23c?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We continue to lead the way in advancements for <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">Digital Storybooking</a> and yet we are still a ground floor opportunity. Consultants who come in now have the best of both worlds. We've been around long enough to get past growing pains and yet its still young enough that its not saturated.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Contact me if you or someone you know is interested in helping us with our mission.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Melissa</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-20444868831126692862011-08-26T10:16:00.007-04:002011-08-26T10:16:00.244-04:00Best of Heritage- Before you were 5Every year my company <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">Heritage Makers</a> holds a Convention, but for us its called "Reunion". This is very fitting because we are like one giant family. I have friends all over the country and Canada, some I've never met and only know online, or through company conference calls and some i see once a year at these events. When we get together you meet new friends, old friends, and it truly is like a family reunion.<br />
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Every year they give out awards to some stories that exemplify why we do what we do. Each story is inspirational, moving and often results in heartfelt tears. This year was no different.<br />
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Being a mom of young children heres the one that got to me this year and reminded me of how priceless every moment is.<br />
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WARNING: You probably need tissues to watch this.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6HdQwOjbrLU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
If you or someone you know has a story to tell or would like to help us with our mission please <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">contact me</a>. We need more moments, stories and lives preserved through story. They are just too precious to miss.<br />
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MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-54026878778886892242011-08-26T09:40:00.000-04:002011-08-26T09:40:01.319-04:00Another great feature we've added to Heritage Makers Studio is the advanced options for managing pages. While this can be done on most any project it is most obvious when making our decks of playing cards. <br />
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We used to be able to add or delete only one page at a time... This feature is used to copy pages or delete unwanted pages in bulk. YEAH!!!<br />
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Heres a quick tutorial about the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l/fAQBr00R1AQDhSSHAG53-yhe1LuWRq2-b2NksESE-wmPq4Q/screencast.com/t/0qQGkdGHE">Manage Pages Update</a>:<br />
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Hope this helps you complete some of your projects more quickly.<br />
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MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-58696067258332338782011-08-25T09:38:00.000-04:002011-08-25T09:38:34.927-04:00Sunday Dinner- Stuffed Turkey loafOne of my friends asked for this recipe and so it inspired me to post it here. <br />
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This is one of my favorites and my husband loves it too. When i was younger my parents had a friend that passed on this recipe and over the years i have altered it slightly to make it easier. Some people have time to Make their own marinara sauce I just open whatever jar is in my cabinet. :) I love short cuts.<br />
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So here is my adaptation. I dont have many measurements because everyone has different tastes of how much spice or cheese they like. This is something you just kind of have to play with until you get what you like. But heres the basics.<br />
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Stuffed Turkey Loaf<br />
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1-1.5 lbs. of ground turkey (its also great made with chicken)<br />
1 package of frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)<br />
Shredded cheese blend (I use whatever i have but mozzarella, or an Italian blend works good) <br />
about 1-2 cups of pasta sauce<br />
Bread Crumbs<br />
an egg (beaten)<br />
Italian seasonings<br />
salt to taste<br />
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1.) Preheat over to 375. <br />
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2.)Take turkey and add seasonings, a dash of salt, about 1/2 cup of bread crumbs and the egg. Mix thoroughly. You are making a meat loaf so you want to be able to shape into a loaf. If it seems too soggy add more bread crumbs. On occasion I will even throw in some Parmesan cheese (the powdery kind) to add thickness.<br />
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3.) Shape into a long loaf and place in an oven safe dish. Now carve a channel down the middle lengthwise. This is where you will put the stuffing. The more room you lake the more you can stuff. Basically you want your loaf to be a long "U" shape if you looked at the end of it with the sides fairly tall as this will be what you will fold over to cover the stuffing.<br />
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4.) Loosely spread the spinach evenly across the bottom of the channel. Then spread about 1/2 cup of cheese or more if you like it really cheesey. This is your preference. <br />
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5.) Now carefully fold over the sides of the turkey loaf to cover the stuffing and pinch on the top to seal. In the end you want it to just look like a loaf with no cheese or spinach showing. <br />
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6.) Now pour pasta sauce over the top and around the sides and place in oven about 40 minutes until turkey is done. I like to sprinkle some cheese on the top during the last few minutes.<br />
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When done you should be able to cut into about 8-10 slices. Serve with salad or even a small scoop of pasta on the side. <br />
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Alternatives:<br />
*** The last time i made this I pureed a small onion, a half a green pepper, and some fresh basil from my garden and used that as the seasonings. It was wonderful and the flavor was blended perfect throughout. My husband said it was the best he remembered, and it snuck in some extra veges for the kids.<br />
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*** I have made mini personal sized loaves too and only put small amounts of spinach in my kids and added chopped pepperonis for a "pizza loaf". Everyone got their own loaf and they loved the kid friendly version.<br />
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*** Short on time? This recipe can be done tandem in the microwave and oven to save half the cooking time. Honestly this is how i cook it all the time. Just put it in a microwave & oven safe dish. Start in the microwave for about 15 minutes then move to the oven for about 7-10 minutes. This is great in the summer and keeps the house from getting hot.<br />
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My family loves this recipe I hope you find your own variations to make it special for your family.<br />
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Melissa<br />
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-57294698390855027332011-08-25T08:56:00.001-04:002011-08-25T08:57:43.075-04:00THE MAGIC BUTTON!!! How to change the size of ANY project.We just added the most amazing feature to our Heritage Maker Studio. I cant even imagine the programming that had to go into it but I am SO thankful. <br />
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You can now <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l/LAQCadWkwAQCvqhM_vyK3Yo_aFB2TF4jdUvwhefpNvtpMHg/www.screencast.com/t/DaWqqt817QQ">Import Pages from Different Projects</a> with Heritage Makers. Basically this means if you see a project you love but its in a different size you can make it into any size you want. Change a 12x12 book into an 8x8. Turn a Canvas print into a greeting card. The possibilities are endless.<br />
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I am working on a post bound yearbook. Each month I make 2-6 pages celebrating events that month. Now I can take random pages out of books that are the theme I want and then add them to my yearbook. Example a Trip to Disney- well i can import a few pages from a Disney Album to commemorate our trip. How awesome is that.<br />
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Just remember to check the print quality. When going from large projects to smaller ones the quality should be ok but when going from small to large you need to be sure that everything has a green outline or it may print grainy.<br />
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THANKS SO MUCH HERITAGE MAKERS!!! You really are leading the way. love it.<br />
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-76604602760900875392011-06-16T11:22:00.001-04:002011-06-16T11:25:44.387-04:00Q&A about Extreme couponingI was at a meeting recently that was about introducing people to couponing. In all the questions a few kept being brought up lovingly AND teasingly. Although people were trying to tease the girl doing the presentation (who was a newbie herself) I thought maybe some people really did want to know the answers to these questions. so I thought i could help answer that here instead of individually. Maybe some other people could find it helpful.<br />
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</div><div><u><b>1.) Not all people go as crazy as the show on tv "extreme couponing".</b></u> </div><div>Most people dont have 200 bottles of mustard or stockpile diapers if they dont have kids. Yes couponers also consider these people hoarders and often get upset because it means less of the items on shelves for others to buy & use. We do however stockpile items that we will use in the next 3-6 months and depending on the space and item even a years worth. You stockpile what you have space for. I built an extra pantry for my overflow, and added extra shelving for toiletries. see this <a href="http://notmarthajustme.blogspot.com/2010/02/my-stockpile-photos.html">post here</a>.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u><b>2.) You wont always get your grocery bill down to $6 if there is $500 in your cart... </b></u></div><div>those shows glorify and stock up on freebie coupons to get totals higher for dramatic effect. Remember store sales often get your total down 25% without even coupons and those $500 totals are retail priced not sale priced. I have seen a nearly $300 grocery bill come down to about $25 however i had tons of freebies and BOGO items in the order that day. usually I average about $20-65 a week on a retail value of $100-180. I eat lots of produce, eggs and meats which in my area dont seem to have coupons. But during the summer this total should go down due to my garden.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u><b>3.) Do couponers really buy things they wont ever use just because its free? YES!!! </b></u></div><div>I have a few answers to this. First if its free I buy them to give to other people or donate to shelters, or service men. I have always been one to give back so if I am shopping and its not costing me anything then it is a shame if i dont pick it up for someone else who will use it. Shelters and pantries ALWAYS need donations. I personally feel it would be irresponsible of me not to get it for someone who may not be able to afford it. AND If you understand how coupons work it also helps stimulate the economy because the store you bought it from sees higher sales and could even lower prices throughout the store due to increase in profits.</div><div><br />
</div><div>With that being said will i run out or make a special trip for a free item i wont use? It honestly depends on the item, if i know someone personally who will use it and how i feel. <b><i>I HAVE passed up free items before to spend time with my family. :)</i></b></div><div><br />
</div><div><u><b>4.) Will you buy something you wont use because it is a "money maker"? YES. Almost always.</b></u> </div><div>These are a high priority for me. Will i make a special trip? Most of the time; if its valuable enough. If I make $3 buying depends i will go to the store and buy depends... and I have on more then 1 occasion. If its only a $1 i will usually stop in during routine shopping or sometimes pass it up if i dont feel up to it. Thats a personal choice.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u><b>5.) Why should you buy "money maker" items even if you dont need them?</b></u> I know for some this question may seem silly and obvious but i actually get it a lot. Its important to note that a money maker is an item that generates more rewards or rebates then it costs you to buy. For example if an item costs you $1 to buy but you get back $2 in rewards thats a $1 money maker. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Heres a quick example of why you should hop on these deals... </div><div>The other week at Walgreens splenda was on sale for $2.99 </div><div>there was a $3 off coupon in the newspaper which means it was free. AWESOME. but it got better...</div><div>If you bought 2 of them you got a $3 reward.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Now whether you use splenda or not that meant you paid ZERO dollars and then they handed you $3 everytime you took 2 off the shelf... </div><div><br />
</div><div>If a store ad said "Stop by our store and we'll give you $11 worth of FREE products AND then give you a $3 voucher to spend." Would you do it? Does it really matter what it is thats free? What if it were a surprise grab bag?</div><div><br />
</div><div>Would you do it if it was $22 worth of free products and $6 free voucher? </div><div><br />
</div><div>What about $44 worth of Free stuff and $12 voucher? Do you get the idea. </div><div><br />
</div><div>This is a marketing strategy that works and has been around for years. Most people just dont think of a grocery/drugstore doing it.... </div><div><br />
</div><div> A car dealer will offer free gift cards or even $50 cash for test driving a car, Time share companies give away $100 all the time just for looking at a place. I sat through many time share presentations with my parents and even a few with my husband just to get the money. Theres free money out there if you want it and you feel its worth your time.</div><div><br />
So I bought 8 boxes of FREE splenda, spent $0 and received $12 free dollars to spend. I then turned around and spent my FREE $12 on items that i wanted. <br />
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Now of course my husband uses splenda but even if he didnt i bet for $12 free i could have found someone to use it.</div><div><div><br />
</div><div>In the end I came home with 8 boxes of splenda, 4 packages of maxi pads (another money maker), 10 packs of single serve butterfinger crunch candy (a free item), 4 packs of fixodent denture cleaners (a free item), 2 large bags of pretzels, 4 packs of instant popcorn, 2 packs of freeze pops, and 3 cans of tuna fish. AND i still have $8 left to spend another day on anything i wish... oh and remember i spent $0 out of pocket.<br />
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To me that was a great day. I have lots of stuff to donate to people who need it, i got some snacks for the kids and money i can use towards other things like diapers or ice cream. <br />
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I hope this Q&A helps answer some of your questions or concerns.. and i hope to add to it as i find more time.<br />
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Thanks Melissa<br />
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</div></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-18755269332690321122011-06-16T11:05:00.000-04:002011-06-16T11:05:59.405-04:00Coupons dont rule my life...<div class="MsoNormal">Read this post today and thought id share. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get a lot of stuff for free or very cheap and once in a while it hurts to pay full price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like when we went on vacation and xander got sick I spent $25 on medicines I knew I had at home (and cost me $0).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we needed it and I bought the ones I had at home so I would know if we liked it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">however yesterday I refused to pay $.99 (after a $3 coupon) for body wash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because in my mind body wash should be free and I had enough at home already.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I actually laughed at myself for not wanting to pay for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>but then again I didn’t need it.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">As I have couponed more and more I have actually found myself <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">LESS </i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>worried with the cost of items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I splurge on things I might not otherwise buy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when I do have to pay full price for something I shrug and say well its been free the last 10 times I bought it; so paying full price is nothing once in a while.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Check out the post on one of my favorite blogs that inspired me. And then share your thoughts. <a href="http://hip2save.com/2011/06/extreme-couponing-never-paying-full-price.html/comment-page-4#comments">http://hip2save.com/2011/06/extreme-couponing-never-paying-full-price.html/comment-page-4#comments</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Couponing is all about finding balance otherwise coupons will rule your life. Heres to everyone finding their balance.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Melissa</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-72373202715462365602011-05-11T13:54:00.000-04:002011-05-11T13:54:12.226-04:00WOW- the Best Gift EverWow its Wednesday. Time to reflect and share things that wow or inspire me. This week i want to highlight my friend <a href="http://storiesthatlive.blogspot.com/2011/05/best-gift-ever.html">Heidi Arave's Blo</a>g. specifically a gift she made her husband for their anniversary.<br />
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Let me start by saying Marriage is HARD. If you aren't married you wont understand until you are. <br />
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BUT for those of us who found our Prince Charming soon realized that the fairy tales and even the view we had of our parents often skewed what married life would really be like. My husband and I have struggled through our own hardships like many married couples i know. You each bring in your own baggage, you think you understand it all but one day you realize the life you wanted for your family and the one you are living are not the same. For us I am happy we realized what was happening and began to change it before it drove us apart.<br />
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This is why I feel like highlighting Heidis blog today. A lot of marriages end in divorce after just a few years. Making it to any milestone like 10 years is just not as common as it used to be and I think its important to celebrate these milestone.<br />
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For their anniversary she just made a gift for her husband that i think every guy would like. Now not every guy would like a scrapbook (thats way too girly). But doesnt every guy read tons of magazines? I know my husband does. How cool to make a magazine about thier marriage, family and all the memories they have. I am WOWed by this and just cant wait to make my own. How special he must have felt to receive this.<br />
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Check it out here. <a href="http://storiesthatlive.blogspot.com/2011/05/best-gift-ever.html">Best Gift Ever</a><br />
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What an awesome idea for fathers day too. I am inspired to make a magazine called "Father of the Year". If you want to make a magazine like this set up a free account on my website <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">www.DigitalStorybooks.com</a> and you can get started today. Contact me and i can help guide you or even find a simple template to make your project go smoother and faster. <br />
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I know mothers day just ended but have you started to think about him. What ideas do you have? Please share what you plan to do to show him hes appreciated.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-25859561881766129322011-05-11T13:52:00.000-04:002011-05-11T13:52:56.256-04:00WOW- the Best Gift EverWow its Wednesday. Time to reflect and share things that wow or inspire me. This week i want to highlight my friend <a href="http://storiesthatlive.blogspot.com/2011/05/best-gift-ever.html">Heidi Arave's Blo</a>g. specifically a gift she made her husband for their anniversary.<br />
<br />
Let me start by saying Marriage is HARD. If you aren't married you wont understand until you are. <br />
<br />
BUT for those of us who found our Prince Charming soon realized that the fairy tales and even the view we had of our parents often skewed what married life would really be like. My husband and I have struggled through our own hardships like many married couples i know. You each bring in your own baggage, you think you understand it all but one day you realize the life you wanted for your family and the one you are living are not the same. For us I am happy we realized what was happening and began to change it before it drove us apart.<br />
<br />
This is why I feel like highlighting Heidis blog today. A lot of marriages end in divorce after just a few years. Making it to any milestone like 10 years is just not as common as it used to be and I think its important to celebrate these milestone.<br />
<br />
For their anniversary she just made a gift for her husband that i think every guy would like. Now not every guy would like a scrapbook (thats way too girly). But doesnt every guy read tons of magazines? I know my husband does. How cool to make a magazine about thier marriage, family and all the memories they have. I am WOWed by this and just cant wait to make my own. How special he must have felt to receive this.<br />
<br />
Check it out here. <a href="http://storiesthatlive.blogspot.com/2011/05/best-gift-ever.html">Best Gift Ever</a> <br />
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What an awesome idea for fathers day too. I am inspired to make a magazine called "Father of the Year". If you want to make a magazine like this set up a free account on t my website <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">www.DigitalStorybooks.com</a> and you can get started today. Contact me and i can help guide you or even find a simple template to make your project go smoother and faster. <br />
<br />
I know mothers day just ended but have you started to think about him. What ideas do you have? Please share what you plan to do to show him hes appreciated.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-80938337854583649172011-05-10T16:48:00.000-04:002011-05-10T16:48:43.556-04:00Store Coupon policies linksBecause every store has their own rules about couponing I just thought i would put these all together in one easy spot for people to find. I recommend printing them and keeping them with you so if you run into a situation you can pull out the policy to verify and show store employees if there is an issue. This post is just the coupon policies and not explanations of the reward programs.<br />
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<a href="http://www.walgreens.com/topic/help/generalhelp/coupon_policy_main.jsp?_requestid=37856">Walgreen's coupon policy</a><br />
<a href="http://cdn.hip2save.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Rite-Aid-Customer-Coupon-Acceptance-Policy-August-101.pdf">Rite aids coupon policy</a> (thank you <a href="http://www.hip2save.com/">www.hip2save.com </a>for uploading)<br />
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CVS I havent found any link to an official policy for them so heres a brief run down. They take manufacturers coupons and internet printables. They dont take competitors coupons. You can use 1 CVS store coupon and pair it with a manufacturers coupons. On a BOGO sale you can use 1 coupon per item even the free one. You can pair a BOGO coupon with a BOGO sale and essentially get both items for free.<br />
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<a href="http://www.target.com/Coupon-Policy-Store-Merchandise-Information/b?ie=UTF8&node=2223357011">Target's coupon policy</a><br />
<a href="http://www.target.com/Coupon-Policy-Store-Merchandise-Information/b?ie=UTF8&node=2223357011"></a><a href="http://sites.target.com/site/en/company/page.jsp?contentId=WCMP04-040400">Target's price matching policy </a><br />
<a href="http://sites.target.com/site/en/company/page.jsp?contentId=WCMP04-040400"></a><a href="http://walmartstores.com/download/4730.pdf">Walmart's Coupon Policy</a><br />
<a href="http://walmartstores.com/download/4730.pdf"></a><a href="http://walmartstores.com/download/4752.pdf">Walmart's price matching policy</a><br />
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local MA grocery stores<br />
<a href="http://www.bigy.com/content/serv/pdct/coupon_policy.php">BigY policy</a><br />
<a href="http://www.stopandshop.com/customer_service/faqs/index.htm?q=shopping">Stop and Shop policies</a> this brings you to their FAQ section scroll down to read about coupons and price guaranteesMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-22373745091170110842011-05-10T15:51:00.000-04:002011-05-10T15:51:52.403-04:00My mom taught me about coupons... And then I taught herGrowing up my mom used to clip coupons at the kitchen table or in the middle of the living room floor with us. I have fond memories of my little sister leaving tons of clipped papers everywhere in the house. Over the years I was never embarrassed or ashamed to use a coupon but little did I know the secret world of EXTREME COUPONING.<br />
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Once i discovered this whole new world i immediately began teaching my family. and boy was my mom surprised about what i had stumbled upon...<br />
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It was about 6 months ago my mom called me and said "Thank you for teaching me this. The timing was perfect and your father and i couldnt have lived all this months without it." <br />
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You see my dad had been laid off and they were pretty much living on nothing and trying to stretch even that. I literally stumbled on this at the perfect time to help them live on pennies. Now their cabinets are full and they dont have to worry about food. Now if only we could figure out how to make coupons work for all the other bills in our lives.<br />
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My father just returned to work recently but its on a 6 month contract. they are both hooked on extreme couponing and excited that it will help them stock up while he is working to prepare for when he'll be out of work again. <br />
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It has felt so good to know i could help them out during this time and also teach them something that will be able to help them far into the future too. <br />
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How has couponing affected your life? Please share your story here.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-31464388920131956092010-12-04T15:50:00.011-05:002010-12-06T00:59:52.847-05:00Canvas Photo Prints even better deal!!!So I posted a great canvas deal the <a href="http://notmarthajustme.blogspot.com/2010/11/huge-canvas-sale.html">other day here</a> and now its even better. <br />
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From now until Dec 11th you can publish a canvas and save 10% of the credits. PLUS There is a new holiday card sale that can be used to get canvas' at an unbelievable deal. Because Heritage Makers credits can be used towards any purchase you can buy "card credits" and then change your mind and use them toward a canvas project instead. <br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">SO basically you can make your own sale. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">$200= $340 points or 41% off<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">$235= $415 points or 43% off<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">$280= $505 points or 45% off<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">add on the 10% discount for publishing this week you can get a super deal on gifts so for $280 you can pick one of these packages</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><u>Mega Gift package (10 gifts)</u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">4 16x20 canvas for $50 each <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">6 8x8 canvas for $16 each<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Or get the take out 1 8x8 and get the </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><u>Procrastinators Dream</u> (Look like you planned well even if it is last minute)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">4 16x20</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">4 8x8</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">and about 35 5x7 flat double side cards upload your address book and we will ship these direct for you too.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">This also equals 8 20x8 canvas’ if you publish this week using the 10% off discount.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><iframe height="450" src="http://www.heritagemakers.com/projectBrowserStandAlone.cfm?projectId=1227679&productId=40&projectSponsor=2" width="450">&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;</iframe></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Think about all the people you spend about $15-50 on and this makes an awesome gift for EVERYONE. Even fits most yankee swaps. Makes quick work of your Christmas list.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">I told you this was awesome!!! If there is something else you are interested in making this is can be used to make a great deal on anything. I can help figure out how to save you the most.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Contact me directly to get this special as it is not available online.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">~Melissa</span></span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-4275411671063554152010-12-02T10:51:00.000-05:002010-12-02T10:51:34.546-05:00Melissa & Doug Toys cheap or even FREEI am always on the lookout for inexpensive toys or even free one. But sometimes they arent always the best.<div><br />
</div><div>TODAY on One Kings Lane you can get Melissa & Doug puzzles and wooden toys for very little cost or even free. I love Melissa & Doug stuff. its educational, role playing and quite sturdy. </div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.onekingslane.com/">One Kings Lane</a> is a discount site that sells lots of top brand items for less. They usually have lots of vases, candles, home decor type items. they are discounted name brands but often still quite pricey. I have seen items ranging from $7 up to the $1000's.</div><div><br />
</div><div>When you sign up (or at least when I did) I got a $15 store credit to spend AND it can even apply to shipping. I hadnt really seen anything I wanted until NOW. Most people have been picking up a free vase, candle or small decorative bowl. I just kind of wanted to wait until i really loved something. </div><div><br />
</div><div>NOW I WANT IT ALL></div><div><br />
</div><div>SO if you go to <a href="http://www.onekingslane.com/">www.onekingslane.com</a> and sign up now you may get that $15 credit and be able to snag a toy for free... and may see some others that you cant pass up too.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-91495355041305466492010-11-30T17:13:00.001-05:002010-11-30T17:16:45.989-05:00HUGE CANVAS SALE!!!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Heritage Makers started carrying canvas' prints a while ago but now they come gallery wrapped for free so there is no frame needed. Over the last year they have greatly expanded the range of sizes. I swear you can get a canvas printed to fit anywhere in your home.</span><br />
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</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Plus they are so gorgeous!!!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What I am so excited about is that there is a huge sale going on that I just realized how completely awesome it is. Just like restaurants are offering a bonus $10 gift card when you buy a $50 one. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Heritage Makers Is offering a bonus with your purchase right now. I dont see an end date right now but I thought it was just for November so today might be the last day!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Its like a "Make Your Own Sale" sale. </span></div><div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You purchase $200 in credits but get an additional $110 bonus so for $200 you can pick out $310 worth in gifts (this does not include tax or shipping). This is equal to 3 16x20 canvas’ AND 2 8x8 canvas’. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">But for just $80 more they will add another $100 bonus. So for $280 you can pick out $490 worth in gifts (that’s $210 free). This is equal to 4 16x20 canvas’ AND 4 8x8 canvas’. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This would give you 8 gifts and makes the large one $50 each and the small one only $20 each!!! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Think of people you would usually spend about $20 - $50 on… these would make an awesome gift! heres two beach themed ones... can you see I am thinking warm thoughts. :)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><iframe height="450" src="http://www.heritagemakers.com/projectBrowserStandAlone.cfm?projectId=1424866&productId=38&projectSponsor=248875" width="450">&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;</iframe></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><iframe height="450" src="http://www.heritagemakers.com/projectBrowserStandAlone.cfm?projectId=1582241&productId=58&projectSponsor=249054" width="450">&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;</iframe></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This is just an unbelievable deal. I am already thinking of who I can cross off my Christmas list with these. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The great thing is you dont have to be ready to make the canvas' now you just prepay for them and then have up to 2 years to make them. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">But if you are like me and planning out gifts you still have a few days to customize them and get them ordered for Christmas. Is just a great deal.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You must contact me to get this price. go to my website and click on contact me. If you email me your phone number I can call you and put your order in right away.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Just imagine thats 8 people checked off your Christmas list. YEAH!!!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~Melissa</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-81221487700669961282010-11-30T13:53:00.001-05:002010-11-30T13:54:29.559-05:00Christmas Advents, Calendars, Countdowns and more...So tomorrow officially begins the countdown to Christmas. Do you have an advent yet? I have seen so many cute ideas and have been busy crafting a few of my own. Check them out maybe it will give you your own ideas. I dont have pictures of mine yet but will share the photos from one of my friends. Check out <a href="http://www.storiesthatlive.blogspot.com/">Heid'is blog</a> for other great Heritage ideas.<br />
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The first is called Countdown Blocks. I absolutely love these and know my children are going to have a blast flipping their photos each day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8-78tnhUb1F3b8C-kjdwWd00Elf62dBhXfn4YQfuPc22GC7_V-VQ_CCc3J8zrPlo5D8X5osWXzFhcC0s-C7bgPB-SEYt4nOQdnBGeyQOu2YpJ_eQpY0SlnyrRIVjPwdhdxFPdK2eIH9C7/s1600/countdown+blocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8-78tnhUb1F3b8C-kjdwWd00Elf62dBhXfn4YQfuPc22GC7_V-VQ_CCc3J8zrPlo5D8X5osWXzFhcC0s-C7bgPB-SEYt4nOQdnBGeyQOu2YpJ_eQpY0SlnyrRIVjPwdhdxFPdK2eIH9C7/s320/countdown+blocks.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>it was so easy to make. I designed a 12x12 scrapbook page on my website <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">www.digitalstorybooks.com</a> then when it came in the mail I cut it apart and glued the pieces to wood cubes. You can find 3x3 or 4x4 blocks in most craft stores but I cut my own from wood that was being discarded on the side of the road. <br />
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Since I have 2 children I made sure each block has all photos of my son and the other is all my daughter. I could just hear my oldest if i didnt... "why are both pictures Xander today... " insert winy noise here....<br />
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The pages cost $3.95 and about $1.50 for shipping if you only ship one sheet at a time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrX8roXcOCxVsboGp3At4InJCgRD_5YEcaVAgjXUF1emxY7ONfLrBxEEITl2Ux_80PICtrzdMNOvD6dzZX84Okcybmge47yQCJ_HWQ_8VvUs1SR1eMkqWVLGxkb02WfzFVRrgq8yf2F71/s1600/Advent.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrX8roXcOCxVsboGp3At4InJCgRD_5YEcaVAgjXUF1emxY7ONfLrBxEEITl2Ux_80PICtrzdMNOvD6dzZX84Okcybmge47yQCJ_HWQ_8VvUs1SR1eMkqWVLGxkb02WfzFVRrgq8yf2F71/s320/Advent.JPG" width="280" /></a></div>heres another one I am planning to make. so what if it comes a little later. I still love it. Again it uses 12x12 pages; 2 stacked together and then you cut the windows with an exacto knife so the kids can open them later. Under each window you can put photos or little holiday traditions like watch a christmas movie, bake cookies, make a craft. what a fun way to make sure you are doing all the little family things that make the holidays so much fun. This will help to keep me from waiting until the last week to try to cram in all my favorite activities. <br />
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The next one would be great fun in a kitchen. I saw this exact thing in hallmark i am sure it was so much more then making it yourself. It uses a 12x12 glued to a cookie sheet found at the dollar store. then a second 12x12 page you cut out the presents attach to tiles found at a hardware store and glue magnets on the back. Heres a hint I found some self adhesive magnets at walmart and they were cheaper then ones you glue yourself. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbQ2_agkyiSiQJIkMp0wFGNo21wBkwc7oHMf1C7YnaOehROn4gqdR1crRf8S_cNF_oX0QyOalEDlPfBD4FshBD_PL2hm0Ul2uVxw4mQXy9kPZCBFyXv5-TGA-ESH0QOqfGFex7NB_GdnC/s1600/cookie+sheet+advent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbQ2_agkyiSiQJIkMp0wFGNo21wBkwc7oHMf1C7YnaOehROn4gqdR1crRf8S_cNF_oX0QyOalEDlPfBD4FshBD_PL2hm0Ul2uVxw4mQXy9kPZCBFyXv5-TGA-ESH0QOqfGFex7NB_GdnC/s320/cookie+sheet+advent.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><br />
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*** It is important to note that these are not printed on photo paper. Photos would run if you tried to decoupage over them!!! You could laminate a photo to achieve similar results but mine come printed with a special coating on them to save you this step. Also all of the above are templates that my clients can use on <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">my website</a> so it would save you some work. You just drop your photo in pre-designed sheets. If you dont have one you can set up your own account at <a href="http://www.digitalstorybooks.com/">www.digitalstorybooks.com</a> to start making your own heritage projects.<br />
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Send me photos of what you come up with.<br />
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~MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-49508732267038633642010-11-30T11:14:00.000-05:002010-11-30T11:14:56.298-05:00Planning out your Christmas.So I have been very busy making, planning, and buying supplies for Christmas gifts... Yeah like most I usually bite off more then I can chew. <br />
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I always make at least a homemade ornament but this year I am quite determined to make a lot of my gifts at least for most people. One person in particular has asked for only one thing LOTS OF COFFEE!!! lol. You know who you are. Living in various areas of the country I too learned that there was really only one coffee i could drink without getting the shakes. and since I can understand the absolute necessity for drinkable coffee maybe I will have to get creative with its presentation.<br />
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To save some stress i always try to plan as much as I can ahead of time. Yes I realize the dreaded "BLACK FRIDAY" has come and gone and maybe some of this would have helped more before but in the last few years I have seen just as good deals closer to Christmas as there is black friday. In fact this year I didnt venture out to any of the big dept stores. So hopefully this will help you recollect and get organized after the chaos and remember what you got and what your plans were.<br />
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So here is what has worked for me in the past. I take a notebook and list out ALL the people I plan to buy gifts for and a dollar amount/value I wish to spend on their gifts. Some will have a whole page to themselves (Depending on who they are and the dollar amount) and sometimes I will list a whole family down the side of one page. For example my children, husband and I each have our own page, my extended family gets about a half a page each, and friends are listed with a few lines each. <br />
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You could do this in an email as well but I like having something tangible I can take shopping with me. This notebook becomes my ideas, brainstorms and eventual shopping list. I also use it to list prices I saw at various stores or websites.<br />
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Once I buy things I list it in the book with the $ value AND the amount spent if I got it on sale. this helps me stay on budget and also lets me know if I hit my limit for the person yet or if hit my VALUE even without hitting dollars spent (due to thrifty shopping).<br />
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I also put on their lists handcrafted ideas and use the back pages to help plan out shopping lists for those ideas.<br />
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This year I am planning to make some "Holiday Survival Kits" I am still not sure what will end up in them but a few ideas are pancakes in a jar (for Christmas morning breakfast), some cocoa (for after sledding), popcorn (for watching a holiday movie), coffee, maybe a decoration for the house, and possibly some adult beverages. <br />
So this is all listed in my book and as I think of things I add it. <br />
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Does this mean everything in my book will be bought or made.... Absolutely not but it keeps me from forgetting those great ideas, or buying too much for one person and forgetting others. <br />
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I hope these ideas help you have a smoother holiday.<br />
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Please comment with your ideas for staying organized and on track this season.<br />
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~MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-28020041998073408322010-11-30T10:34:00.000-05:002010-11-30T10:34:35.946-05:00Back again...SO you may have noticed I havent blogged in a while. thats an understatement. <br />
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I had some technical issues and well, got very frustrated. Then had some family issues too and it was just easier to let this project sit on the side for a while. But I have missed it and now am ready to take it on again. I hope you will join me as i celebrate my favorite time of the year. Christmas.<br />
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Ever since I was a little girl I have been making handmade gifts and this year is no different. <br />
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Make sure to click "become a follower" because you wont want to miss all the great ideas I have for easy holiday gifts that even you can make this holiday season. <br />
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~MelissaMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234462592783266801.post-25876906269540105522010-03-19T10:12:00.001-04:002010-03-19T10:33:28.443-04:00I love CVS...I think I have told you before how much I love CVS... I was reminded again this past week why.<br />
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I have had issues with other stores cashiers being uneducated about their own rewards program, AND also how coupons work. Just because I am not paying for it doesnt mean the store loses money... duh, you get paid by the manufacturer.<br />
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Anyway. After some great sales at Rite aid the last few weeks I guess the cashiers/managers had seen too much of me and started giving me some trouble. They are now investigating EVERY coupon, gave me a hard time about B1G1 sales (I had to call customer support for back up), and basically did everything except accuse me of stealing. They have now decided that I can only use one total purchase coupon per DAY. Ironically its their company that pays redplum to put these out and allow us to print 2 per computer... even in their company policy it allows for multiples but it does give the store the right to "limit" daily use.<br />
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SO I almost gave up. Figured they decided they didnt want my business. Instead I found another rite aid nearby and figure I will start fresh and see if I can educate them on coupon use. I already taught them about the B1G1 free sales and they were much nicer about it. They were glad I had my store policy with me and thanked me....SO wish me luck that hopefully this new store wants my coupons/money.<br />
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Anyway after all the issues that day I had to stop in to CVS for a quick trip and to remind myself everything I do is OK. Not only did I feel better but I got a few rainchecks AND they gave me the ads for the next 2 weeks ahead of time!!!<br />
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I did complain a bit about rite aid to them and the guy working said "I dont understand they get paid either way. If its a coupon it just comes from the manufacturer instead of you." <br />
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Just a reminder that apparently CVS employees do understand what a coupon is and other stores just think its paper...<br />
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Happy shopping. :)Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02633691982353217781noreply@blogger.com2