Wage-Earning Moms

$1.00 off Cheerios Coupon

2010-10-24T06:40:00.000-07:00

~go HERE to print the coupon :)

*this is a bricks coupon and will not let you have it mailed to your house....so happy printing!!

Free Earth's Best Organic Formula Sample!

2010-09-17T05:36:00.000-07:00

Join the Earth's Best family and get a FREE sample of Earth's Best Organic baby formula!!

~go HERE for more details and to get your sample!

Scott $1.00 off Coupon!

2010-09-17T05:08:00.000-07:00

Get a coupon for $1.00 off any Scott Product, 8-roll or higher. Expires 10/13/2010

~go HERE to get coupon

CoverGirl/Olay - FREE Serum Primer Sample + more!

2010-09-17T05:03:00.001-07:00

Sign up with P&G Everyday Solutions and get a FREE sample of CoverGirl/Olay's Serum Primer! Many other samples on the site as well! (must register to get samples/coupons)

~go HERE for more details

JCPenney's Appreciation Sale + FREE SHIPPING!

2010-09-15T03:37:00.000-07:00

JCPenney's Appreciation Sale!

Get FREE SHIPPING on orders of $49.00 or more!
~use this code at checkout: Great49 (valid through Sept. 20)

~go HERE for more details!

Land's End - Save 30% (Fall Kid's Styles) + FREE SHIPPING

2010-09-15T03:32:00.000-07:00

Lands End Sale! Save 30% on in-season Fall Kid's clothes and get FREE SHIPPING!!

~go HERE for more details

Free Cottonelle Fresh Wipes

2010-09-14T16:47:00.000-07:00

Get Fresh with a Friend!! Get a FREE tub of Cottonelle Fresh Wipes and get one for your friend as well!!

Go HERE for more details...

$2.00 off any Nivea Lip Care Product

2010-09-03T02:21:00.001-07:00

Nivea is now offering four new lip care products!!!

~Go HERE to print a $2.00 off coupon!

*this is a Bricks coupon, but does not have the 'mail' option...sorry to those who can't print!

Save $1.00 on Tums

2010-09-03T02:09:00.001-07:00

Free Shout Color Catcher Sample

2010-09-01T05:17:00.000-07:00

SCJohnson is offering free Shout Color Catcher sample!

~go HERE to get yours!

Garnier HerbaShine Hair Color - $3.00 off Coupon

2010-09-01T04:54:00.000-07:00

Get $3.00 off Garnier's HerbaShine Hair Color

~go HERE to print coupon

and then...

~go HERE to have them mail you one...

Target Printable Coupons!!!

2010-09-01T04:51:00.001-07:00

Target coupons are awesome in that you can stack a store coupon with a manufacturer's coupon to maximize your savings!

Some coupons on the site are: Arm & Hammar Cat litter, Nature Valley Granola bars, Pillsbury bread, etc...

~go HERE to print your coupons!

Folger's Black Silk - $1.00 off Printable Coupon

2010-08-29T07:12:00.001-07:00

Print a $1.00 off Folger's new Black Silk.

~go HERE to print coupon

*if you can't print, go HERE to enter your information and you will receive the coupon in the mail.

Meal Train - Free Meal-Planning/Organizing Online Tool

2010-08-28T09:34:00.001-07:00

A great FREE online tool if you've volunteered to organize meal deliveries for your friends and family after the arrival of a baby.

* create a calendar of dinner dates
* note dietary restrictions of the baby's family
*invite friends to sign up to provide/deliver food

~go HERE for more details

Silk Soy Milk - Sign up and get a $0.75 off Coupon

2010-08-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

*Sign up for offers and coupons with Silk and automatically receive a $0.75 off coupon.

~go HERE to sign up and claim your coupon

Organic Valley Coupons - Several Different Ones to Print!

2010-08-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

*Several different coupons for Organic Valley milk, yogurt, soy milk, etc.

~go HERE to print coupons

Seeds of Change Simmer Sauce - $1.00 off Coupon

2010-08-28T07:26:00.000-07:00

*For those of you who LOVE Indian cuisine, Seeds of Change's organic simmer sauces are wonderful!

1.00/1 Seeds of Change product, including their delicious simmer sauces!

~go HERE to print coupon

40% off Fuji Film's 'See Here' Photo Puzzles

2010-08-28T06:10:00.000-07:00

*Receive 40% off all Photo Puzzles:

*110 piece 7"x10" or 252 piece 10"x14

*Order now and receive FREE standard shipping

*enter promo code: puzzle-9 at checkout

~go HERE for more details

Home Depot Improvers Club - Join now!

2010-08-27T06:01:00.000-07:00

Home Depot Improvers Club
Sign up for Home Depot Improver Club and receive Home Maintenance and Upkeep Projects E-mail Alerts, How-to Video Tutorials and Email Newsletters.

~go HERE for more details

Kraft Printable Coupons - Huddle to Fight Hunger

2010-08-27T04:44:00.000-07:00

For every email entered a meal will be donated; go HERE for more information and to print coupons

Coupons include:

1.00/2 Maxwell House Coffee
1.00/2 Oscar Meyer lunchmeat
1.00/2 Kraft mayo
1.00/2 Kraft Cheese
1.00/2 Nabisco cookies/crackers

Enjoy!

Kellogg's All-Bran Promise Pack - Free!

2010-08-26T17:55:00.000-07:00

Sign up to receive a Kellogg's All-Bran Promise Pack! Receive samples, coupons, and other goodies!

This is a fabulous freebie! :) and arrives in 4-6 weeks....

~go HERE for more details

Thanks for Posting: Freebies4Mom

$0.75 off 15.5 oz or larger Malt-O-Meal Cereal

2010-08-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

0.75 off Malt-O-Meal Cereal coupon

~go HERE for coupon

thanks The Krazy Coupon Lady

Aveeno - Nourish & Shine Sample

2010-08-26T03:26:00.000-07:00

Choose a sample or a downloadable coupon - will be able to choose on the site.

~Go HERE for more details

50% off any Classic Photo Book Style @ Picaboo.com - valid beg. 8/27/10

2010-08-26T03:07:00.000-07:00

Save 50% off their Classic Photo Book Styles. You can create a beautifully designed, high-quality photo book.

enter this Code at Checkout: ALLYOU50

expires - Sept 30, 2010

~go HERE for more details

I'm Still Here :)

2010-08-25T00:51:00.001-07:00

Hello All! I promise I have not fallen off the planet...It's just but a super busy week....but I promise I will be posting some awesome deals soon!

Part of being a 'Wage-Earning Mom' is working, working, working, so alas, that is what I have been doing....earning those wages....bringing home the bacon....putting food on the table...and I promise, I have not abandoned you loyal followers!

So, thank you for your patience and your want of a good deal! Have a fabulous Wednesday, and I promise to see you soon!

~Melanie

Aveeno Sample & Coupon

2010-08-22T06:28:00.000-07:00

Go HERE for details - get a free sample/coupon of Aveeno Shampoo/Conditioner

Playtex Sport Sample - Walmart

2010-08-22T06:22:00.001-07:00

Click on 'Get your Sample'
Fill out the FORM, get a Playtex Sample from Walmart.com

Kotex Sample from Walmart

2010-08-22T06:17:00.000-07:00

Fill out the form, get a sample of U by Kotex, click on 'FREE Sample'

~go HERE for sign-up form.

*Walmart samples come quickly!

2 FREE Cheetos Samples

2010-08-22T05:32:00.000-07:00

Cheetos Samples!

*still available if you didn't get them at the beginning of the month. (2 new flavors: Sharp Cheddar/Salsa Picante & Ragin' Cajun & Tangy Ranch)

Go HERE, complete the form and wait 4-6 weeks for your free samples!

JCPenney - FREE SHIPPING - ends 8/24/10

2010-08-22T04:41:00.000-07:00

JCPenney - FREE SHIPPING on orders of $99.00 or more. Ends 8/24/10

Enter promo code: FUNCLASS at checkout

Go HERE for more details

Lands End - 25% off + FREE SHIPPING - ends 8/23

2010-08-22T04:33:00.000-07:00

Private Sale! 25% off plus FREE SHIPPING (No minimum order) (Online & In Store sale) - ends 8/23/10

~go HERE for more details

Enter Promo Code: FREESHIP and PIN: 5810 at checkout

Not valid on previous purchases or when combined with any other promotional offers or employee discounts.

Join the LEGO Club!

2010-08-21T09:41:00.001-07:00

Join the Lego Club and your child will receive FREE Lego Club Magazines. My son looks forward to these magazines, because not only is it about Legos (his favorite toy after all) but he gets something of his very own in the mail.

~go HERE for more details!

Godiva Summer Sale! 50% offf, FREE SHIPPING - Expires Today (8/21)

2010-08-21T05:35:00.000-07:00

Annual Summer Sale!
Save 50% on select items!
Also, get FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $75 or more
(enter code FREESHIP75 at checkout)

~go HERE for more details

Whole Fruit Sorbet Coupons

2010-08-21T05:30:00.000-07:00

Fill out the form and you will receive coupons for Whole Fruit Sorbet. I love Whole Fruit Sorbet! :) - My Kroger and Ingles has it on sale regularly!

~go HERE to fill out the form and get your coupons!

$1.00 off Drumsticks Lil' Drum Ice Cream Cones

2010-08-21T04:49:00.000-07:00

Go HERE to print coupon. (Bricks Coupon)

*If you can't print the coupon then click on 'Help' at the bottom right of the screen and you'll be able to enter your mailing address. They will send you a coupon in the mail.

Ben Sherman - Save an Additional 30-40%

2010-08-21T04:46:00.000-07:00

Ben Sherman Sale - 30-40% off:

Go HERE for more details.

Recycle Bank - 75 points code!

2010-08-20T17:07:00.000-07:00

code: DEALSEEKINGM215 Be sure to click on Recycle Bank Insiders

Do 5x = 75 points (enter code and the partner is Recycle Bank Insiders) - plus for signing up today I got 25 points.

I just redeemed 100 points for 2 free cans of cat food...Lucy is going to LOVE this site! :) . But there are tons of rewards so read through the site to see what works for you. If you are new – you start out with 25 points for signing up, so today you will end up with 100 points.

Enjoy!

thanks Frugal Dietitian

Pull-Ups Printable Coupons

2010-08-20T04:42:00.000-07:00

Coupons for Pull-Ups Training Pants & one for the Flushable Wipes

Go HERE to print coupons

$1.00 off Glade Fabric & Air

2010-08-20T04:39:00.000-07:00

Print your $1.00 off Glade Fabric & Air HERE

Plow & Hearth - 60% savings! Free Shipping Statewide!

2010-08-20T04:26:00.000-07:00

60% Summer Savings + FREE SHIPPING statewide!

*also, enter for a chance to win a $200.00 gift certificate for Plow & Hearth

go HERE for more details

K-Mart - Double Coupons up to $0.99, through 8/21

2010-08-18T12:58:00.001-07:00

K-Mart is back at it's double coupon promotion. Last time I did this I saved $60.00 off $85.00 worth of stuff!!! (although last time the coupons were doubled up to $2.00)...but anyway, check the list to see if your store is doing this promotion!

*please note: you must use your 'Shop Your Way Reward Card' and the limit is 5 coupons per day per customer

K-Mart Double Coupon Promotion - Stores That are Participating

Free Pregnancy Planner from Healthy Women

2010-08-18T09:23:00.000-07:00

Order a FREE NEW HealthyWomen Pregnancy Planner if your pregnant or planning to be! Visit Healthy Women to get yours.

Plus, order the Flu-Free and a Mom-to-Be card, offering easy-to-understand flu facts and prevention strategies.

(If you want 3+ you have to pay shipping).

No credit card info required!!

Thanks RockinDeals4You

TONS of New Savings & Deals!!!

2010-08-18T07:49:00.000-07:00

Coupons from All You Magazine: (1.50/2 Kellog's cereals, 1.00/2 Mini-Wheats, etc.)
~go HERE to print and use

Target - Save 20% when you spend $75.00 or more, Get FREE SHIPPING when you spend $75.00 or more on specific styles - ends Saturday (8/21/10)
~go HERE for more info

"Visit LunchNotePromise.com and when you share on Facebook that you promise to drop a note in your kid’s lunch, Lunchables will donate $1 to Boys & Girls Clubs of America. It’s super easy to register and get that $1 donated! And if you need further enticement, you can print a coupon to Save $1 off Lunchables Lunch Combinations with Water (print two coupons, just hit the back button). The coupon prints at the top of the page (nothing below it) and you’ve got one month to use them before they expire. "

Thanks goes to Freebies4Mom for sharing this new coupon!

CVS: Receive a $4.00/$20.00 coupon from CVS for signing up for their newsletters:
~go HERE for more info

CVS Instore Coupons:
~go HERE to print and use!

Philosophy - Save 15% off Skincare - valid through 8/20

2010-08-18T06:38:00.000-07:00

Enter promo code: greatskin - valid through 8/20/10

*also, free shipping on all orders $50.00 or more

~go HERE for more details

Pangea Organics - Free Shower Gel ($16.00 value) w/ Purchase

2010-08-18T04:13:00.000-07:00

Purchase $45.00 and receive a FREE shower Gel - Egyptian Basil & Mint Shower Gel ($16.00 value)

~go HERE for more details

Coupon 101: Drug Stores & Extra Coupon Tips (Part 4 of 4)

2010-08-18T03:18:00.001-07:00

Now that you have learned the coupon lingo (some of it), where to find coupons, and different methods of organizing coupons, it's time to shop! I've composed a list of tips to help you maximize your savings at the grocery store as well as at other stores that accept coupons, including drugstores.

Tips:

Coupon Policies: All stores (grocery/drug) have a coupon policy. This policy states what coupons the store accepts as well as how many can be used in a single transaction, etc. It is useful to print these off (most can be found on the store's website) and keep it in your binder (if this is the method you choose to use). You may run into some cashiers who don't know their own coupon policy, so it is useful to know it before you head into the store. I don't want you to be worried about having to deal with the cashiers, because most of them are just as amazed at your savings as you are.
Double/Triple Coupons: Make a list of all stores near you that accept coupons and find out which of those stores double/triple coupons up to a certain value. The only stores near me that do is Kroger and Piggly Wiggly. Both double coupons up to $0.50, so if you use a $0.50 coupon you'll really save $1.00 on the product.
Savings Card: Apply and use your local grocery store's savings card. (i.e. Kroger's card is the Kroger Plus Card). Many sales only apply to those with a card and some stores (like Kroger) allow you to 'load' coupons onto the card from their website.
Newsletters/Deals: Sign up to receive your local stores' deals of the week newsletter. I joined Kroger's and now I receive their circular in the mail as well as a coupon mailer that contains coupons based on my regular purchases. I have received a 'FREE' coupon in each of these mailers.
Circulars: Use your store's circular (sales ads) to your advantage. Match up the sales with the coupons you have and save! I love Kroger and Piggly Wiggly's 10/$10.00 sales ($1.00/1) because then if I have several $0.50 coupons for that item (the reason you purchase several newspapers) and your store doubles coupons, then all of those items are FREE! Free products equal a higher percentage saved at the end of the day and this is our goal.
Savings Tracker: Keep track of your savings on a spreadsheet and update after each grocery/drug store trip so at the end of the year you can see how much you've saved as well as make goals for the following year's budget.

Drug Stores:

CVS's Extra Care Bucks (ECBs) Program: This program rewards you with ECBs when you purchase specifically marked items. For Example: If you purchase 2 bottles of Pantene you will receive $3.00 ECBs at time of checkout. (of course those of us who use the program use coupons the make both bottles of Pantene relatively free to begin with, so the $3.00 ECBs are a little extra 'thank you'). These ECBs can be used like cash on your next transaction.

Stacking Coupons: Please note that you can 'stack' coupons at CVS. This means that you can use a Manufacturer coupon (stated on your coupon) and a CVS coupon (the CVS logo is on the coupon) on the same product to maximize your savings.
Rolling Your Savings: This means that once you earn ECBs you begin to use those ECBs only on products in which you earn more ECBs, and it becomes a continuous cycle, one that ends in lots of free items you can either stockpile or donate.

2. Walgreens' Register Rewards Program: Very similar to CVS's program, but
instead of earning ECBs you earn Register Rewards (RRs). I'm not sure if you can use RRs
on the purchase of other items where you earn RRs. (as you can see, I don't use this
program as much as CVS, but the goal is to save money and so I have taken advantage of
several of Walgreen's sales.

The important thing here is knowing your stores. Know how they handle certain types of coupons. Know what they allow and don't allow (because all areas are different). One area may allow something while other areas do not. If one store up in Connecticut allows certain coupons I can NOT assume the chain store down here in Georgia to follow the same policy, so it is always best to know YOUR specific store.

I really hope you have learned something from Coupon 101 and if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Now, GO SAVE!!!

Target: Tons of Freebies!

2010-08-17T00:48:00.001-07:00

Check out these great Target freebies!

Cesar Dog Treats $2.99
use the $1/1 Target Cesar Coupon from the 5/23 RP
use with the $2/1 Cesar Coupon 8/8 RP
Final cost: Free
Chef Boyardee $0.99

Use the $1/1 Chef Boyardee Target Coupon
Final Cost: free

Campbell’s Select Harvest Microwaveable Bowls $1.50 or cans $1.54
Use the $1/1 coupon here
Use with the $0.50/1 Target coupon
Final cost: free or $0.04 (depending on which you get)

Bic Wite Out $1.27
Use (2) $1/1 Target coupons
Use with the $1/2 coupon from the 8/1 SS or here
Final cost: 2 free and overage
(if your cashier doesn’t allow two Target coupons, you’ll pay $0.54 for both)

Five Star Poly Portfolio $0.50
Use the $1/2 coupon from the 8/8 RP (*regional coupon)
Final cost: 2 free!

Bic Stic Grip 7 ct Easy Glide Ball Point Pens $0.99
Use (2) $1/1 Target coupons
Use with the $1/2 coupon from the 8/1 SS or here
Final cost: 2 free plus $1 overage
(if your cashier doesn’t allow two Target coupons, you’ll get both free plus $0.02 overage)

Post-It Sticky Notes $1
Use the $1/1 PDF coupon here (unlimited pdf printable)
Final cost: free
*watch this coupon- some have reported that it rang up $0.75!

Also, check your Travel Size section for these freebies. Your Travel Size Section selection may vary by store.

Tide 2x Ultra Travel Size (1 Load) $0.97
Use the $1/1 coupon from the 8/1 PG
Final cost: free

Shout Wipe & Go travel size wipes (4 ct) $0.97
Use the $2/2 coupon from the 8/8 SS
Final cost: 2 free

Pantene Flex Hold Hair Spray Travel Size $0.97
Use the $1/1 coupon from the 8/1 PG
Final cost: free

Johnson & Johnson First Aid To Go $0.97
Use the $3/3 coupon from the 8/1 SS
Final cost: 3 free

Band-Aid Brand Adult 8 ct or Hello Kitty 10 ct $0.97
Use the $3/3 coupon from the 8/1 SS
Final cost: 3 free

Degree Travel Size Pure Satin or Shower Clean Deodorant $0.97
Use the $1/1 coupon here
Final cost: free

St. Ives 3 oz Travel Size Oatmeal & Shea Body Wash $0.99
Use the $1/1 coupon from the 7/18 SS (*regional coupon)
Final cost: free

Clean & Clear 1 oz travel size Morning Burst Cleanser $0.97
Use the $1/1 coupon from the 8/1 SS or here

Thanks RockinDeals4You

Victoria's Secret $/$ Deals

2010-08-15T10:59:00.001-07:00

Several $/$ deals going on right now!

$15.00/$100.00
$30.00/$150.00
$75.00/$250.00
$150.00/$500.00

enter code: FALL10 at checkout!

~go here for more details.

Sephora - FREE SHIPPING - Limited Edition Beauty Kits!

2010-08-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

FREE SHIPPING on all the new Beauty Box Kits (limited time only):

Enter FSBEAUTY at checkout!

Click here for more details.

Win 25 Trial Size Samples of Pangea Organics Shower Gel To Share - Expires 8/15 - TODAY!

2010-08-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

15 Lucky Winners will receive Trial Size Samples of Italian White Sage with Geranium & Yarrow Shower Gel to share with 25 Friends!

Entry is simple!

Just email facebook@pangeaorganics.com and tell us who you'd share these samples with and why. Don't forget to include your name and address, so we can send you the samples in the event that you win!

Entries must be
received by Sunday 8/15 to qualify.

This weekend...save water, shower with a friend!
Pangea Organics

*image pictured above is full size, not trial size.

Juicy Juice Coupons/Newsletter

2010-08-15T09:55:00.000-07:00

"Sign up for membership now to enjoy FREE benefits, including:

Personalized email newletters and other valuable Juicy Juice communications via email and postal mail, packed with tips for making smart nutrition decisions, tips and expert advice as well as money saving offers on Juicy Juice products and more.
A community of parents like you - connect with others on message boards.
A fully customized site with links to information on health, development, learning, activities, and more, all relevant to your child's age.
Tips and advice from child experts, including pediatricians, healthcare professionals and parents!"

Thanks Frugal Dietitian

Walgreens (8/15 only) FREE 8X10 - edited

2010-08-15T09:41:00.001-07:00

Free 8×10 Print (limit 1 per customer)
Pick up in store for FREE

*If you don't have a Walgreens Photo account, setup is easy. Follow instructions on the site.

*Printed on high quality photo paper

*Ready in as little as an hour

Walgreens Photo - More Info Here

thanks Frugal Dietitian

Coupon 101: Couponing Methods (Part 3 of 4)

2010-08-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

I am sure there are many methods to organizing coupons, but I have found two tried and true methods that are simple and very useful. When I say simple, I don't mean there won't be work involved, but that once you get the hang of it, it will become second nature. I am very fond of the Binder Method and the Accordion File Method. For both of these methods the coupon categories I use are listed below:

Dairy
Fruits & Veggies
Meat
Soups/Sides
Sauces/Spreads
Baking Needs
Snacks/Desserts
Breakfast Items
Pet
Household
Health & Beauty
Misc.

1. BINDER METHOD: You will need a binder (I prefer the soft, durable binders that have zippers so coupons can't get lost), plastic baseball card holders, and plastic paper covers that fit into binders (for Binder Method; Type 2 only).

1. Type 1: Uses binder & baseball card holders only.

Step 1: Label baseball card holders with each coupon category (listed above)
Step 2: Separate each pocket into subcategories of the category chosen (i.e. Fruits/Veggies Category: subcategories can be: canned veggies, frozen veggies, canned fruit, organic, etc.)
Step 3: Insert each coupon into the appropriate pocket and you're ready to go!

Please Note: You must update regularly to ensure that all expired coupons are removed
(Interesting tidbit: Military families who live on military bases can use expired coupons, so
if you feel bad about wasting the expired coupons you can find families than can use them.)

2. Type 2: This version of the Binder Method takes a lot more effort but allows for much more organization and is in my opinion, more user friendly. In this method you will need the binder, the baseball card holders, the plastic sheet covers, and the use of a spreadsheet program like Excel.

Step 1: Follow all the steps from Type 1 above.
Step 2: Set up your binder: put the card holders and plastic sheets in order: plastic sheet, card holder, plastic sheet, etc.
Step 3: Create a spreadsheet in Excel entitled 'Coupon Binder - last updated xx-xx-xx'
Step 4: Create a different tab for the different categories listed above.
Step 5: Across the top of the spreadsheet create these column labels: 'Coupon Item', 'Number', 'Exp. Date' & 'Comments'
1. 'Coupon Item' - In this column place the name of the product that the coupon is for
2. 'Number' - Enter the number of these coupons you have
3. 'Exp. Date' - the date the coupon expires (this is quite useful for coupon purging)
4. 'Comments' - enter any special rules for the coupon (i.e. can only be used at Kroger, or must buy a certain amount to get the deal)

Step 6: After all coupons have been listed and described, print off each sheet from each category and insert into the plastic paper cover that faces the adjoining baseball card holder containing coupons.
Step 7: Now you have an actual listing of all coupons and you are now able to cross off each coupon upon use, as well as update your spreadsheet after each shopping trip to remove redeemed coupons.

As I've stated, I prefer this method because I know exactly what I've got to deal with. I am able to update my spreadsheet regularly and print the news sheets weekly (after the inserts from the weekend paper have been entered). The use of the spreadsheet also makes it easier to know which coupons have expired and needs to be purged. This method is also much easier to use while shopping because you can use your coupon list without having to pull out any coupons.

Please note that this method does take some time and effort, but after a week or so of working with it, it will become second nature.

2. ACCORDION FILE METHOD: All you will need for this method is an accordion file (letter envelope size or smaller) - This method is very similar to Binder Method Type 1, but uses an accordion file instead of a binder and does not use subcategories.

Step 1: Most plastic accordion files you buy will come with little labels to place on the plastic tabs, so label the tabs with each coupon category (listed above)
Step 2: Insert each coupon into the appropriate pocket and you are ready to go!
Step 3: Make sure you update/purge your accordion file at least once a week since you do not have a listing of your coupons and you will want to purge your file of any expired coupons to make room for more current ones.

I am currently using the Accordion File Method because my current schedule is quite hectic and I basically only have time to throw the coupons into the appropriate category before I go to the store. As I stated, I prefer the Binder Method Type 2, but it is time consuming and requires much more effort than the Accordion File Method.

It is best you figure out what works for you because couponing should be a help, not a hassle. You can take these methods and alter them any way you need to make couponing more fun and appropriate to your situation. As stated before, there are many methods of preparing coupons, but these two are my favorite because they are the most organized and most user friendly.

If you have any questions or need any help with these methods, email me at wageearningmoms@yahoo.com and I will be happy to help any way I can.

Walgreens (8/15 only) - FREE 8X10 Photo

2010-08-15T07:35:00.000-07:00

Free 8×10 Print (limit 1 per customer)
Pick up in store for FREE

*If you don't have a Walgreens Photo account, setup is easy. Follow instructions on the site.

*Printed on high quality photo paper

*Ready in as little as an hour

More Info Here

thanks Frugal Dietitian

FREE 1-Year PowerBoat Magazine Subscription

2010-08-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

These can go fast, so sign up now!

http://www.mercurymagazines.com/pr1/169/16921?sssdmh=dm5.176864

thanks Frugal Dietitian

MyPoints! Earn Points, Get Gift Cards!

2010-08-14T16:08:00.000-07:00

I have been a member of MyPoints for years now and I LOVE it! There are several ways to earn points, and I've earned them every single way:

1. After you join, you will begin to receive emails w/ 'MyPoints Bonus Mail' as the subject of the email. Click on the email and you'll generally have the option to complete the offer for a certain amount of points or refuse the offer for 5 points. (I generally refuse the offer, mainly because I'm not in need of the service being offered) - these points add up because you'll get a good portion of these emails.

2. You will also receive MyPoints Surveys with higher point values than the emails and if you qualify for the survey and complete it you'll earn the points.

3. You can also shop your favorite stores and brands on their site. Each store/brand will list the amount of points per dollar spent. I have actually shopped a few times throughout the years and my points came through perfectly.

4. Contests - the site runs contests regularly for points values. I actually won a contest pretty early on in my MyPoints career and I was able to redeem for several gift cards.

5. Print coupons through their site and once the coupon is redeemed you will receive points for each coupon used.

All points can be traded for gift cards. I generally get the CVS, Walmart, or restaurant cards, mainly the CVS cards though, since I make use of their Extra Care Bucks program (will have a post about that in the near future)

A lot of effort is not needed to earn points through MyPoints and every little bit counts.

If you are interested in joining MyPoints, let me know and I'll send you a link to sign up!!!

Enjoy!

Another Vehicle Recall - Honda

2010-08-14T07:41:00.000-07:00

Honda Recalls 384,220 Cars: (borrowed from ModernMom.com)

Honda Motor Co. recalled 384,220 vehicles in N. America (and 44,000 vehicles in Canada) because of a defect where the cars could roll away if parked incorrectly. The problem is with the ignition switch that could allow the key to be removed without the transmission being shifted into park, which could cause serious crashes.

The Honda recall covers Accord, Civic and Element models from the 2003 and 2004 model years in the United States.

About 20 people have complained about the problem, and one woman even said she was almost run over by her car when it was parked in her driveway. Honda said it will begin notifying its consumers in late September.

Owners can contact Honda at (800) 999-1009.

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Coupon 101: Coupon Resources (Part 2 of 4)

2010-08-14T04:32:00.000-07:00

Hunting for coupons is a big part of the fun of couponing. There are several places coupons can be found, more than there have ever been. Today's coupon world has expanded greatly since our mom's coupon clipping days. I have compiled a list of resources as well as helpful hints regarding those resources.

1. Newspapers: As stated in the previous 'lesson', newspapers are a great source of coupons. If you can, buy several copies to maximize your savings (instead of getting that one product for free because of a doubled coupon, you can get 3 or 4 - which is great for your stockpile). Now, don't make the mistake I made when I first began couponing: don't buy several $2.00 papers without knowing whether inserts will be included that weekend.

Helpful Hints:

My first couponing mistake - buying several $2.00 papers without checking to see if there would be any inserts included in the paper that weekend - so always check the Sunday Coupon Preview (http://www.sundaycouponpreview.com/) prior to purchasing several newspapers.

2. Online: There are several coupon resources online, which of course opens these coupons up to coupon fraud, etc, so always know your source and make sure it is reputable.

Internet Printable - There are several resources for IPs. You can visit the following sites because they are fully dedicated to IPs and savings: Coupons.com (Print Grocery Coupons! Redeem at your local supermarket and save money on household brands.) and Redplum (Click, Print, Save)
Product sites tend to have access to coupons for one or several of their products, so if you're looking for something specific always check the product's website first. Many of these sites have newsletters as well, so if you subscribe to their newsletter you will be informed via email of their most recent coupons and promotions.
Deals Sites: A great resource for IPs because the owner of the site or its members have done all the work for you. Some great deals sites are: The Frugal Dietitian, RockinDeals4You, and Vickys Deals, which of course is where I started my obsession with saving money and coupons. Some sites, such as Vicky's allows you to trade coupons with other members. Of course, this only works if you have some sort of trust with that person or site. You must always remember though that people on the Internet are not always 100% honest, so you should always be wary of anything that seems too good to be true.
Facebook has become a great source of high-value or 'FREE' coupons for certain products. Always 'like' the product you wish to be informed about and when they are having a promotion, you will be one of the first notified.

3. At the Store Itself: Coupons abound at the grocery store. Grocery stores love when you save because they receive money back for the coupons you use, so if a cashier gives you grief, let them know that you know that the store is reimbursed for the coupons you use.

Blinkies: As stated in the previous 'lesson' blinkies are the coupons that are located near the products they are endorsing. It is proper coupon etiquette to only take a few, leaving enough for the rest of the store's customers.
Sometimes there are tear-off pads near certain products which contain coupons.
Peelies: Coupons that are physically on the product you wish to purchase. As stated before, if you have a higher value coupon you'd rather use for that product, let your cashier know so they don't pull and scan the coupon from the product.

4. Contact the Companies: Companies love to hear from their customers and if you email them directly, you have a pretty good chance of receiving coupons, sometimes even coupons that make the product you purchase free.

Please note: I prefer to compliment the company and its products. I let them know that I purchase their products regularly and that I am appreciative of the hard work they do. Some on the other hand prefer to complain about a product in hopes of getting 'FREE' coupons. I do not condone this. I don't think it's ever okay to lie to get something, so if you're going to contact a company you should be totally honest.

I hope these coupon resources are helpful and as usual, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Coupon 101: The Lingo (Part 1 of 4)

2010-08-13T05:28:00.000-07:00

I understand that most people know what many of these terms mean, but many do not. There are also 'tricks of the trade' and information for each item that many do not know. So here goes:

1. Insert: Coupons that are located in your Sunday paper. I generally purchase 4 papers so I can have 4 copies and maximize my savings. I am lucky enough to live in a town that has a 'weekend' paper that only costs $0.50/copy, so I get 4 times the amount with the cost of a regular Sunday paper.

Helpful Hints:

Inserts are generally in weekend papers including a holiday. I say 'generally' because every now and then you'll find an insert.
You can find out what will be in your Sunday paper by following deals sites, which generally post what will be in that weekend's paper, or you can go directly to the site and check for yourself. (Southern Savers)
The general rule for coupons in the inserts is that one coupon can be used for one item; most coupons will give you this information on the coupon itself

2. Catalina: The coupons that print out at the register. These coupons are generally based on your regular purchases, so you're getting coupons you and they know you'll use. Sometimes these coupons are redeemable for money-back on your next purchase. Those are my favorite catalinas because then I can add them to my next shopping trip savings.

3. Peelie: These are coupons that are attached to the product in the store and are meant to be removed by the cashier during checkout. These coupons are meant for the person purchasing the item.

Helpful Hints:

If at the time of purchase you have a higher value coupon you'd rather use, you can tell the cashier and they'll leave the peelie on the product for your future use
Peelies are meant for the consumer purchasing the item, so it is poor couponing etiquette to take the peelies off of items you have no intention of purchasing. I consider this stealing, as do many others.

4. Internet Printable (IP): Obviously, these are coupons you can print online. Many of these coupons are legitimate, but some are fraudulent and cause great hassles for those of us who are playing by the rules.

Helpful Hints:

Unless otherwise noted, most IPs can be printed 2x, the coupon generator will let you know if you've reached your maximum amount to print (if the IP is a .pdf then generally you can print over and over, but I'd make sure the company is aware of this before doing so. This has happened many times in the past and then these coupons are considered fraudulent and stores quit taking them.) - I'm sure you've seen the signs at store registers that say, 'We are no longer accepting blank coupon, we apologize for any inconvenience'....
A general rule for knowing a coupon is legit after printing is that the serial number will be different for each coupon.
There are several places where IPs can be found. I generally keep track of IPs in posts of blogs and deals sites I follow (examples being: www.thefrugaldietitian.com, www.vickysdeals.com, and www.rockindeals4you.com).
You can also find IPs by going directly to the sites that have them: www.smartsource.com, www.coupons.com, etc.

5. Blinkies: These are coupons that come out of those machines in the grocery store that are located in the aisles near the product associated with that particular coupon.

I know this is not a huge list of definitions, but I feel these are the most important. I feel that if you know your way around these items you'll be well on your way to saving big bucks and becoming an old coupon pro.

Couponing 101: Introduction

2010-08-13T04:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Coupon 101! My goal with this 4 part 'class' is to help all of those who are interested in couponing but are overwhelmed by the whole process. I'm breaking it down in 4 Parts (Coupon Lingo, Coupon Resources, Coupon Methods and Using Coupons) making it easier to navigate for those who know some things but need help with other areas. Please make sure if you have any questions, to let me know and I'll be happy to answer them.

Dollar General Savings Zone!

2010-08-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

Sign up with Dollar General and get emails full of online coupons, sweepstakes, specials/promotions & more!!! (not valid in all states)

Dollar General Email Newsletter

Daily Sacrifices

2010-08-09T01:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday morning! As I prepare for my day and week, I start to think about my child, who is cuddled up in his bed, oblivious to the fact that I'm awake and that I'll be gone by the time he wakes.

As mothers, we all make sacrifices, especially if we have joined the workforce. We miss out o many milestones and we miss out on time especially. My son will turn eleven in December and for most of his life I have either been in school or at a job. All of my time spent away from him was absolutely necessary, but that doesn't mean I don't feel a loss. I carried him for nine months, not missing a second of his little life (it's hard to separate when they're part of you :) ), but the moment he came into this world he became a shared person, which included shared time spent with others. I no longer had him all to myself.

Don't get me wrong. I love my job and what I do, but I hate that I leave the house every morning before he wakes and I hate that by the time I arrive home it is dinner time and that he'll be in bed within the hour. I can't help but think of all the time I miss during his waking hours and that he's spending those precious hours with someone else, generally my husband. My husband gets to see him grow while I, from a distance get to hear about all the exciting things he's doing.

So, as I prepare this Monday morning for my workweek, I am also trying to figure out how to spend the precious time I have with my son during my non-work/travel hours. I live with the fact that I'm giving up my time with him to better his future and I truly hopes he understands my time sacrificed is all for him. He gets all the extra hugs and kisses and love I can give during the minute amount of time I am home during the week, heh, even though he's getting to the age where this is 'gross'....precious!....love it! :)

I hope you all have a fabulous Monday and don't forget to tell your children you love them and would do anything for them.

Editorial 8-4-2010 - The Many Facets of Women in the Workforce

2010-08-08T06:17:00.000-07:00

There are several categories/definitions of women who join the workforce. I know, 'categories' sounds a bit harsh, but as scientifically-minded, intelligent creatures, we humans try to put order to everything. It's not a flaw, just reality. For my purposes the categories are: Career-driven Moms, Single Moms/Caregivers, Two-Income Family Moms, and Elective Working Moms (those who work because they want extra spending money or want to occupy their free time). Please note that this editorial is not fact and that many women encompass several of these categories. These are generic categories and are derived by what I have seen (not that I've ever experienced all possibilities) and come from my own experiences.

Career-Driven Moms : These are women who strive for something extra outside of their comfort zone. The career-driven mindset outweighs the need for a job or extra income (even if that income is a necessity).These women desire to move to the top of their careers, their career being as much an integral part of their lives as their family and social lives. Career-driven women are high-achievers who strive to meet their goals in life and many are driven by a perfectionist attitude (myself definitely included). They strive to prove to the world that they are quite capable of being the best at what they do.These women love work, at least their type of work, and would continue on in their career even if it was not necessary.

Single Moms/Caregivers : Many single mothers/caregivers work because it is a necessity. They generally do not have the support of others, as many other wage-earning moms do. (this category also includes single dads, but as you should know by now, this site is meant for women, sorry guys....). I'm sure many single moms love their jobs, but their sole reason for said work is to provide for their families. I was lucky enough to be raised by a single mom and I know for a fact that she was/still is a very hard worker. She put her family above her work, even when she worked several jobs at once. Many of these women take whatever work they can so they can support their families, so they do not have the opportunity to be as picky as career-driven women. As I stated earlier, many women can fit into several categories, and I know there are many single moms who are as career-driven as those who are married or living with a significant other. It's just that career-driven moms who are also single also have many other challenges to face than moms who are not single.

The Two-Income Family Mom: These are moms who join the workforce because they have no choice. They do have the support of another income, but it's just not enough to make ends meet. These women are so completely reliant on their income that they are just as un-choosy as single moms. They have a little more wiggle room when it comes to being picky, but not as much as a career-driven mom who has the full support of another income. Many of these moms, if given the choice, would leave their jobs and stay at home with their children. They work because they have to, not because they love it. (Again, let me cover my rear - there are many women who live in a two-income situation and love their jobs and would never leave even if they had the choice, but I'm referring to those who work for the purpose of supplementing the income of another.)

Elective Working Moms: These are moms who work because they want a few extra spending/saving dollars a month. They want a little more control over the money in their own pocket, so therefore they may go out and find a part-time job that suits their needs. Others work full-shift jobs because they desire to have a life of their own that is different than their home life, etc. Many moms who fall into this category are 'Empty Nesters' or retirees who want something to do with their extra time. They felt very needed and felt they served a purpose while their children were home or when they worked prior to retiring, but now they feel they have nothing to offer. These women generally do not shoot for the fast-paced portion of the workforce, but generally get positions in low-key, relaxing situations. I have a feeling that when I retire and my son is out of the house I will continue working. Honestly, I love to work and feel that if I were in a similar situation, I would probably hop into work like I never left.

As I've stated before, these are general/stereotypical if you will, categories that describe women in the workforce. There are so many more 'types' of women who choose/don't choose to work, but I thought I'd touch on the more common groups. There are always exceptions to the rule which makes life much more interesting to live. I am totally intrigued by women in the workforce and the different lifestyles they lead. I did not mention women who are stay-at-home moms who earn an income while working at home because I feel that for the most part these women fall under one of the above-mentioned categories. It makes me happy to know that in 2010 women have so many more opportunities in the workforce than they have ever had before, not that sexism doesn't still exist. It is our job as wage-earning women to prove to the world that we can have our cake and eat it, too. We can strive for the life we want rather than living the one that is prescribed for us.

8/08/2010 Editorial - Sound Financial Advice?

2010-08-08T04:27:00.000-07:00

As a budget-conscious wage-earning mom, I try to listen up for all the hot financial advice that is being offered up to the public. From what I have gathered, all the financial gurus tell you to add to your savings account once you receive your paycheck, even before bills are paid. This way you'll have a good portion saved and not have the temptation to spend it. This seems like reasonable advice, but how are those of us who live paycheck to paycheck supposed to follow such advice? I'd love to know the salaries of those who give such advice. I suppose if I had any disposable income, it would make sense for me to save rather than spend. But what about us who don't have any extra income? How are we supposed to make ends meet and get ahead in life?

I literally budget down to the penny. My checking account dwindles down to cents quite regularly, and no, I don't frivolously spend. How are the hard-working people of America supposed to make it financially if we have no financial wiggle room? I am paid bi-monthly and by the 16th of the month my bills are paid, leaving little for anything else, especially savings. People who don't save for their future are looked down upon by many, but how are we supposed to even think about the future when our present is so grim? I'm not saying my life is as hard as many out there, but my family survives without any aid from the government and yet even we have a hard time trying to make ends meet.

I am lucky enough to take well to budgeting my family's money and spending as little as possible. This is where my couponing and frugality play its major role. I am a happy camper if my bills are paid and we have food on the table. I would love to have enough extra money to save , to put it towards our future, but as of right now I will be content to feed my family and pay my bills on time. (I am lucky enough to have money to do this.) And if you're wondering, my frugal ways will not waver no matter how much money is brought into our lives.

FREE Toys/Babies'R'Us GiftCards When You Buy Huggies

2010-08-08T04:19:00.000-07:00

Two offers: (in-store only)
1. August 6-8 - buy 2 packs of the value boxes of Huggies (100-264 ct) and receive a $15.00 gift card
2. August 9-20 - buy 2 packs of the value boxes of Huggies (100-264 ct) and receive a $10.00 gift card

New Blockbuster Kiosk Codes

2010-08-07T17:23:00.001-07:00

The Blockbuster Kiosk (just like Red Box, only Blockbuster's version) is pretty awesome. Movies are only 1.00 (or 1.07 here in GA with our 0.07 sales tax) and I'm lucky enough to find codes to make the movies FREE....you can't beat a FREE movie night! :)

Enter codes at 'checkout' at the kiosk or do it directly from your computer (must sign up first) at this link: http://www.blockbusterexpress.com/ then you can go pick up your movie....

August's Freebie Codes:

GT18A - expires 8/30/10
G417A - expires 8/13/10
G418A - unsure of expiration (not sure if expired or not)
BBXPUB - apparently this code works for some, and not for others....

*I always bring a list when going, just in case one is deciding it does not want to work.

Remember that all movies must be back by 9:00 pm the following night to avoid the extra day charge (1.07).

Hope they all work for you :)

GoodNites Sample

2010-08-07T12:20:00.000-07:00

Get a free sample of GoodNites underpants from Kimberly-Clark. Samples will be mailed in 4-6 weeks.

http://www.goodnites.com/na/Bedwetting-Products/Offers/Free-Samples.aspx

25 Free Prints at Walgreens

2010-08-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

If you don’t already have a Walgreens Photo account, sign-up for 25 free prints from Walgreens Photo. No coupon code necessary but you must click on the blue “Add To Your Account” button and then create an account.

Click on “My Account” you’ll see your 25 free prints credit. You have 2 months to use it before it expires. Remember to pick them up in-store to avoid paying shipping.

This offer is for new users only.

Enjoy!

The Importance of Saving, Saving, Saving....

2010-08-07T10:19:00.000-07:00

We have all been affected by the last few years worth of economical stress. Cutting back and saving money is an aspect in my life that has helped me during these struggling times. I save money several different ways.

I'm a member of sites, such as these:

www.vickysdeals.com
http://thefrugaldietitian.com
www.rockindeals4you.com

These types of sites are very helpful because they are an oasis of online/brick and mortar deals, coupons, freebies, and a plethora of ways to save money. They also list varying ways of being frugal and saving as much money as you can.

I'm also an avid couponer. I get so many comments regarding this, such as 'how do you find the time', or 'it's just so frustrating', but I find that when I see the amount of money I save at the grocery store, it makes all the time and effort worthwhile. I have a method that has proven quite effective. In the next few weeks I will be working on a 'How To' post. I will share my savings strategies as well as the actual, physical work involved in a step-by-step guide that will make it easy and doable.

Another money-saving strategy I have become accustomed to involves becoming members of sites like SwagBucks, VocalPoint, SheSpeaks, MyPoints, MySurvey, Pinecone Research ect. These sites allow you to accrue points by completing surveys, doing online searches, or clicking on emails. These points can be used towards gift cards and even money placed in your PayPal accounts. The money you 'earn' from these sites is not a lot, but in my mind, every little bit counts. I know people who put everything they gain from these sites into savings accounts and eventually it all adds up.

The combination of all these strategies makes my financial life a little easier to deal with. It helps to know that the money I save on my grocery bill can go to something more pressing. It's also a nice feeling to open my mailbox and see all the goodies my (and others') hard work has given me.
I hope you can gain something from my years of searching for ways to save money, as as I stated before, keep your eyes open for 'How To' posts regarding couponing, etc.

The Importance of Backup Plans - Work & Sick Children

2010-08-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

After reading an article in Parent's Magazine entitled, 'A Working Mom's Guide to Sick Kids', I began to wonder whether I have done all I could regarding my child's health, my work life, and an emergency situation. Although my situation is quite different from other wage-earning moms, I still don't feel like my 'backup' plan is in order. I have never really given it a second thought.

My son stays with his father daily. My husband owns a tattoo shop in the town where I live and my son is a member of Georgia Cyber Academy, so he is schooled by my husband before his business day begins. I feel lucky knowing that my son is in the best hands possible, but then again, the idea of going to work knowing my son is extremely ill breaks my heart. I have also been lucky enough to have a son who is rarely, if ever, sick. He may have a cold or slight seasonal allergies, but he's never really be ill enough to warrant extreme measures, again, something in which I'm quite grateful.But I don't want to be naive enough to think that accidents and illnesses do not occur.

But all of this should not stop me from not having a backup plan. The woman in the story was in her situation because her husband was out of town and her child was extremely ill. She also had been out previously with her sick child, so her boss was not being sensitive at all to her current situation. In the event that my husband is out of town or just not accessible, I need to have a plan of action.

I am also lucky enough to work for an employer who is sensitive to the needs of parents. When a child is sick, an employee has the option of using her own accrued Sick Leave up to a certain amount of days and if the child is seriously sick, then the employee can make use of the FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act), giving the employee twelve weeks of leave without the fear of losing her job. This leave can be paid if the employee has enough Sick/Annual Leave hours accrued. FMLA is wonderful in that an employee does not have to fear losing her job because of a needed absence, which can include being a caregiver to a sick child. This leave can also be used intermittently based on need and approval. The employee can not lose her job whilst using the FMLA and she also has to be put back in the same position and pay grade she was on when she left.

Even though my situation is much better than most, I still need a backup plan. I currently work two hours from where I live and in an event where my child is ill and my husband is unavailable, I need to be able to make a phone call and start the process of making sure my child has the care he needs while he waits for my return. Part of my plan must also include easing my employer's mind and letting them know that the work that i will miss will be completed and in a timely manner. Many employers are sensitive to the needs of parents, but as parents we must also be aware and sensitive to the fact that our employers have a business to run. Our backup plans need to be thorough and should accommodate everybody.

All Parts Make A Whole

2010-08-07T07:43:00.000-07:00

I am a person who leads many lives, or as I've come to call it, a person who leads a multi-faceted life. I have a work life, a family life, a church life, ect. All of these 'lives' have come together to make me who I am. They are all separate parts of me, yet they all come together at certain points and are what make me whole.

It is important as a 'wage-earning' mom to separate these lives, for the sake of my family. As we all know, when our minds are on work while we're at home, we're neglecting those we have promised to give our life. I'm not saying it's wrong to bring our different lives together occasionally, but it becomes a problem when it becomes a habit. I have learned to separate anxieties and worries that stem from work from my home life because my family does not need to have to deal with a grumpy, worried mama. On the flip side, I've also learned to keep any family drama (yeah, right...me, drama?! ha!) in the confines of my home while my mind is occupied with work. My employer is paying me for my undivided attention, not the happenings at home.

I don't want you thinking that I'm always stressed or worried about work or fully dramatized whilst at home. These are just examples. For the most part, any worry/stress that stems from work is a dysfunction generally created by my perfectionist attitude, as goes with any family drama. Perfection is wonderful, but honestly, an unattainable goal. I deal with this daily, not only with work, but with family and all other facets of my life. I take it one day at a time.

What I'm getting at is that not only is it important to have many parts of our lives that make us whole, but it is also important to know their places. Whilst at work we should be fully focused and give our employers their money's worth. When we have the opportunity to spend time with our families we should give them our undivided attention. I feel blessed to have my work, my family, my church, all facets of my life. They make me who I am and I know their place in my life.

Times Are a Changin'!

2010-08-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

Over the last several decades the mentality of women holding higher positions in the workforce has changed from women having to think like a man, dress like a man, and live similar lifestyles to men, er bachelors to women who have proven that they can be feminine, head-strong, high-achieving workers and still be a loving, caring,hands-on mom.

Recently,the Personnel Director at my place of employment (sadly, she was the first ever female HR Director and was not promoted to that position until 2000) retired. The comment she made in her farewell speech that struck me most was that she never had children and that she considered her employees her children. Honestly, it saddened me because I feel like she missed out on an opportunity of a lifetime. I'm not judging her for the choice she made, but the fact that she had to make a choice is was bothers me most. It saddens me because many women of her generation had to choose between being a mom or a member of the workforce and the only way to really move 'to the top' would be to having nothing else going in her life. Men have never had to make that choice. They got to have their cake and eat it, too.

Luckily, times have changed in the past few decades. Many high-ranking women have families and have proven to the men in their lives that they cannot only run a very successful business, but they can also be fully-involved in their children's lives, not missing the plays, ballet recitals, or the nights reading bedtime stories. We are proving that not only can we have our cake and eat it, too, but we can bake the cake, decorate it, and even clean up the mess afterwords.

Women today are a fierce multi-tasking group of human beings. We can move mountains. We can kiss away the boo-boos while creating the budgets that keep our families out of bankruptcy. We can keep the house spotless while working our 60-hour schedules outside the home and do it all with a huge smile on our face. We can do this because we were given the choice to do so. We can choose to stay home (I know there are many who do not have this option, myself at the moment, but that does not mean that the chance won't eventually come knocking at my door). We can choose to work outside the home and we can choose to work inside the home. The great thing about today is that we get to make the choice!

I am very grateful for the women who, like my recently-retired Personnel Director, chose work over families, because they set the precedent in the workplace for women. They proved that they can do the same job as a man and make it work. They proved that women can be tough and can no longer be seen as the 'weaker sex'. I'm also proud of the women who have proven that women can work while raising a family, a healthy, loving family at that. I am thankful for those women because I am one of them. I know it is possible to help run a household while having a different life outside the home and I look forward to the journey as I move my way to the top in my career just as I look forward to the opportunity to watch my son work his way to the top of the height chart! Life is a journey and I plan on embracing every step of the way.