Me in January of 2016 on left, December 2017 on right

UPDATE: The weight loss program I'm currently using (AND LOVE!) is opening up a new round BEGINNING MONDAY,  SEPTEMBER 17TH! SEVERAL PPP readers and a few of my friends went through the last round and have seen SO much success (I've gotten several emails and it just makes my day!) If you've been struggling with your weight, I promise this will change YOUR life too ~ go HERE to learn more. 

This is me in August 2018 trying on my Stitch Fix 🙂 just to prove I've still kept the weight off (which just makes me sooo happy – although I think the camera lies a little in pics like this I'm pretty pleased with my weight right now!)

So often I'm asked about my weight loss story, and since it's the New Year (and everyone like me is looking forward to an amazing 2018), I decided this was the perfect day to share with you. 

Way back in 1995 I made a New Years’s Resolution that actually stuck.

I was tipping the scales at 225 as a sophomore in college, and for the first time ever (I really have no idea why), something clicked and I decided I was just done with being overweight.

I’d always been heavy – I never knew what it was like to shop in the regular size kids department (at age seven I remember my mom moving me up to junior clothing, and shortly after that to women’s and plus size clothing), and it was just part of who I was. I never went to prom, never wore a fancy dress, never even had a single date as a chubby girl.  And almost twenty five years later, I still every so often see that chunky girl staring back at me.

But somehow I got started, and not so slowly the weight dropped off. By June I had dropped a whopping seventy-five pounds, and  I’ve maintained that drop in weight for almost twenty five years now, give or take ten (um … twenty?) pounds or so.

So what did I do? I think I decided that New Year that I was just done with being incredibly overweight.  I was miserable, had lived my life miserably, and decided I wanted a different future for myself.

Over the years to maintain my weight loss, I've tried just about every diet out there because I refuse to go back. I've done Weight Watchers, joined friends in weight loss challenges, taken the Weigh Down Workshop, and the 21 Day Fix but this last year, I finally landed on the perfect I'm-going-to-live-like-this-forever LIFESTYLE (not diet!) for me. 

Here's the thing that hit me about two years ago and was life-changing (again!) for me. (I hadn't gained much weight, but after moving to Ohio and struggling with some serious sadness, I was watching my weight creep up a bit.) 

I realized I have three children and wanted to figure this whole weight thing out so that they wouldn't watch their mom struggle her whole life with her weight. I wanted to show them that no matter what gene pool God gives them, they can do the very best with exactly the perfect body God created for them (thick chunky thighs and all.)

And I wanted to find something that truly would work for anyone. 

I WOULD GIVE ANYTHING TO HAVE FOUND THIS PROGRAM TWENTY YEARS AGO.

IT WORKS.

It's not super easy but there are absolutely no gimmicks. (After the first week I've found it MUCH easier than anything else I've tried though – getting through that first few days is a little overwhelming, but after that you'll be all set.)

It's basic, wise nutrition including carb cycling with some intermittent fasting thrown in. (If you're new to intermittent fasting, it's eating in a smaller window – so for me, I eat most days between 11AM and 7PM – VERY doable after you've done the first week!)

This was me as a junior in high school when I was probably around 190 pounds and stopped taking pictures  (full size pics were banned completely!) I topped out at 225 as a sophomore in college.

Me in January of 2016 on left, December 2017 on right

Over the course of the last two years between the 21 Day Fix and The Faster Way To Fat Loss, I've managed to drop almost twenty pounds to my lowest weight EVER (at age forty-two!) and I've maintained that weight loss without feeling deprived.

I just love that.

While I've splurged quite a bit over the holidays, I was thrilled to step on the scale this morning and only be up 2 pounds  even after traveling and not stressing much at all about my diet over Christmas and New Years. I would love love love to see a few more pounds gone, but I'm pretty thrilled with my weight right now (I'm a size 6-8 ~ something this sized-24-eighteen-year-old-never dreamed would happen at 42!)

So can you do this? 

I know you can.

If you've struggled with your weight ~ my heart aches for you to find a plan that guarantees success.

I know how awful it is to always feel like the chubby girl. I know what it's like to feel hopeless and like you have no control. But I also know this will work for you if you're just willing to commit for a few weeks and really do it.

I PROMISE. 

We can do this.

just like in our finances, WE HAVE CONTROL over this area of our lives.

Goodness. I love that.

you and I just need to learn how.

The Faster Way To Fat Loss Challenge is open right now and begins April 20th, however they only have a few slots left (there are 150 people signed up right now, and limit their spot so that you get personal attention.) Here's what's included when you sign up:

• 6 week online program including access to private Facebook Group with certified coaches to help you get started
• Daily 30 minute work that you can do at home OR at the gym – if you're new to exercising, there's an option for those just starting out too
• Comprehensive program guide with resources to help you thrive including sample meal plans, a detailed program overview, and video interviews
• Prep week training to set you up for success
• Accountability and a supportive approach to keep you on track and accomplish your goals
• The focus, quality, intensity and commitment of a trainer with 10+ years of success

If you're interested in signing up, HURRY AS THESE SPOTS ARE VERY LIMITED. Within two weeks (TWO WEEKS!) you will see visible changes, your body will change, you will have more energy, and you really will completely change the way you look at food. (It's BEYOND crazy to me how much my eating habits have changed!)

If you want to be stronger, more confident, lean, fit and toned, THIS PROGRAM IS FOR YOU. This has been an amazing program for me – it's not super penny pinched (the cost is $199) but it's WORTH IT especially when you think of other places that we can so easily waste money (and this program is so encouraging!) You have to be willing to work, but if you do I know you'll see results.

I'm praying an amazing 2018 for you!

Note: There are DEFINITELY less expensive options to losing weight, but for me this has WORKED, and was worth every single penny. However, if your finances are tight right now, do some research and see what other methods are out there for you, and determine to pinch a few pennies in your budget to maybe join at a later date!

This program has been incredibly successful for women who have a foundation of basic working out and under 100 pounds to lose. The program is challenging and will require commitment. If you have more than 100 pounds to lose and have not worked out in a long time, then the program will work for you, but will require some modifying. If that’s you, you will start with the nutritional cycle then ease you into our workouts. (I personally would recommend following the diet and adding a simple walk each day to ease into working out.) This program is NOT for: women who are breastfeeding newborns, those who are significantly underweight, those who have struggled with an eating disorder, or those who are suffering from significant adrenal fatigue.

DIY Fall Decor on a Budget

Every Fall for years and years I've been determined to fluff my home and make it feel cozy, while still sticking to a budget.  I've made a ton of fun DIYs, Etsy knockoffs and Dollar Tree crafts in the process!

Here's a roundup of many of my crafty DIY Fall decor endeavors – I hope they give you some helpful ideas for fluffing up your little slice of heaven!

DIY Fall Paper Garland

This DIY Fall decor took a little more time – but I am just over the moon with how it turned out!  My husband might think I'm crazy but I'm just head over heels for this cute craft 🙂

DIY Wood Bead Garland

I am SO in love with these natural beads lately – they're such a beautiful accent for the mantle or a centerpiece, or would around your Fall candle pillar array!

How to Decorate for Fall on a $3 Budget

Learn how to decorate for Fall on a $3 budget without sacrificing style – I'm still in love with this arrangement!

How to Decorate for Fall at the Dollar Tree

In this DIY Fall decor, I'll show you how to turn those Dollar Tree glass containers (which they ALWAYS have in stock) into adorable mantle decor!

Monogrammed Burlap Table Runner

Set a graceful homespun Thanksgiving table this Fall with this easy and inexpensive monogrammed burlap table runner!

Grateful Hoop Wreath

These hoop wreaths are sooooo simple to make and you can change them up with every season.  In this fall wreath, I used the word Grateful to welcome Thanksgiving (and cooler temperatures) 🙂

Burlap No-Sew Pennant Banner

I soooo loved how this burlap no-sew pennant banner turned out – and it was just the easiest thing to make!

Dollar Tree Centerpiece

I loved making these three different Dollar Tree Centerpieces – using just coffee beans and glass jars, Dollar Tree burlap pumpkins, and Dollar Tree floral and berry garland.  There's a little something for everyone here!

Fall Burlap Wreath

Making this Fall burlap wreath was much simpler than you'd think – and sure beats paying up to $85 on Etsy!

Painting Pumpkins for Fall

Paint your pumpkins instead of carving them to match your decor this Fall!

Corn Kernel Candle Holder

This one uses a Fall staple – dried corn kernels – to make a simple and pretty candle holder.  Best part?  It was just $6 from start to finish!

Dollar Tree Pumpkin Craft

Give your basic Dollar Tree styrofoam pumpkins a glam makeover in this DIY!

Frugal Fall Decorating Ideas

Learn how to take a big glass jar, some dried goods and a pumpkin and turn them into a fun and frugal fall centerpiece!  (Although I recommend using craft pumpkins instead of a real one…. read here to find out why!)

Plus you'll love the secret way I use WAY LESS filler in my jar decor 😉

Dollar Tree Fall Decor

If you only have a few bucks to spend on your Fall decorating – check out these Dollar Tree Fall decorations I made for about $1 each!

Decorating for Halloween on a Budget

My family pulls out our cute Trick or Treat bucket every Fall and it was so easy to make!  This is a fun one to let the kids help out with 🙂

Frugal Thanksgiving Centerpieces

All you need is a couple inexpensive gourds, candles, and popcorn to make this frugal Thanksgiving centerpiece!  It's a great low centerpiece that would also work great on a coffee table.

Burlap Monogram 

Check out this $5 Burlap Monogram for the front door – all you need is a Sharpie!

Head over to NordstromRack.com and snag this AWESOME deal on this Keen Sandals! They also have deals on Nike tennis shoes (as low as $33 . . . my daughter loves the white ones but they're not available in her size.) 🙁 

Snag the Keen Clearwater Leather Sandals in Sangria (Several sizes left!) for only $37.13 (Reg $110)

• Search Style #1014370 to find quickly

While I was looking at the Keen sandals – I spotted these Keen Dauntless Posted Thongs for 70% OFF as well!

• Search Style #1014317 to find it quickly

(I wish they had my size – they look really comfortable!)

Find more top retail deals.

I have got to tell you about these 3 deals on Amazon today, because goodness, I absolutely love each of them, and they're all some pretty incredible deals! While today might not be your day to buy them, they DEFINITELY are worth checking out while they last.

1. The Amazon Echo Show (which is $100 off right now!)

Y'all. 🙂 

I thought the Amazon Echo Show would be not worth it at all when I bought it on Prime Day, but I couldn't pass up the price (especially so that I could see if it was worth recommending to you!)

I now use it every single day to find recipes, stream my favorite music, and listen to my books on Audible of course too. 

For a few more days it's priced at the lowest price we've seen it (the same as Amazon Prime Day Price right now!) and I really do think this can be a great option if you're considering something like this! You can also use it to talk back and forth on (although we haven't used it much for that . . . ) but I just think it's a great little device and worth it at that price. Might be a great Christmas gift idea too!

Here are a few more Amazon Device Deals going on today:

1. Echo Show – Under $130 (Reg $229.99) ~ we bought this to see what we thought, and while I would never pay $229 for it, at $129 it’s a pretty incredible deal!
2. Echo Dot –  Under $40
3. Amazon Echo – Under $85
4. Amazon Echo Plus – Under $100
5. Amazon Echo Buttons 2-Pack – Under $15
6. Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Tablet – Under $100
7. Fire HD 10 Kids Edition Tablet – Under $160
8. Fire 7 Kids Edition Tablet – Under $80
9. Echo Dot Kids Edition –  Under $70
10. Kindle for Kids Bundle with Cover – Under $100

2. A FREE Amazon Audible account

Right now you can snag a TOTALLY FREE MONTH of Amazon Audible, AND get two free books!) I've had Audible for the last few months and have listened to more books in 3 months than I've read in probably five years (yikes.)

My nephew encouraged me to consider just reading real books a wee bit more, but I reminded him that I haven't figured out how to fold laundry and hold a book in my hands at the same time. 🙂 I listen while I do housework, when I run, on the elliptical, as I'm driving ~ all. the. time. 

Amazon Audible is $14.95 per month after your first trial month (just cancel before your one month is over to avoid any fees!), but it includes one free book a month after that.  I figure I'm buying one book a month for my fee + supporting authors, (which I love!) It's definitely worth trying it out for free for just a month to see what you think too.

3. The Book Everybody Always.

A few friends mentioned the book Everybody Always by Bob Goff to me a few weeks ago, and IT IS SUCH A GOOD BOOK.  I've been reading (ummmm . . . listening to it . . . ) on Audible and goodness, it has been such an encouragement to me.  If you need to be encouraged and inspired and absolutely uplifted today, this one is just for you. 

(A few other books that I've loved on Audible have been Sisters First, Girl Wash Your Face and Present Over Perfect. 

So, those are 3 deals definitely worth knowing about today if you hadn't heard about them yet! Do you have any product or item that you're loving right now? I'd love to hear what it is ~ leave a comment to share!

Jamie here!  I recently picked up a set of the Rubbermaid Take-Alongs and I LURVE them.

First of all – I love how cheap they are, and also I love how you can store hummus or ranch in the top and veggies or chips in the bottom!  Or peanut butter in the top and apple slices in the bottom!  Or Nutella in the top and pretzel sticks in the bottom!

Plus they come in some REALLY cute colors 🙂

They're only a little bit on sale – but they're already SOOOO cheap they're an awesome deal!

And if you're joining us via Night Owl Alerts on Facebook Live – here are the two deals we talked about tonight:

CVS Cereal + Movie Ticket Deal:

Buy (3) Specially Marked General Mills Cereals for 2/$4 and get a code for a FREE Movie Ticket (Fandango Cash).  Limit 4!

Deal Idea:
Buy (6) Boxes of General Mills Cereal = $12
Use (3) $1/2 GM Cereal Coupons PRINT HERE
Makes it $9 for 9 boxes of cereal + 2 FREE Movie Tickets!

Total paid – about $6 per movie ticket, but you'll also be bringing home 3 boxes of cereal 🙂

Glad Odorshield Trash Bag Deal:

Glad Odorshield Trash Bags 110 ct WITH Febreze Freshness are currently about $7 OFF and you don't even need to subscribe & save to get the deal…   Woohoo!

Find more top retail deals.

The Fall 2018 Grocery Budget Makeover beginning tomorrow: go HERE to join me (registration ends tonight!)

The addiction that transformed our family's life my sound a little strange to some, but maybe you've been there too (or are just hoping to get there one day?)

When my husband and I were first married, money was incredibly tight in our home. Our grocery budget back then was $60 each week, and I remember staring in the pantry at the end of the week and trying to figure out how we were going to make it.

I'd make a loaf of homemade bread if I needed it to skip a trip to the store we couldn't afford, and come up with one more meatless meal.

Then one of my favorite friends ever taught me about this thing called ‘couponing' (before Extreme Couponing was even a thing.)

I was empowered.

All of a sudden, that same $60 budget we were barely scraping by on gave us complete abundance.

I'd come home from the store after spending well under $60 (sometimes as little as $40 even), and for the first time ever we had plenty.

I was hooked.
But I kept my little couponing addiction a secret. (That may sound crazy, but it truly became an addiction for me!)

I didn't want friends to judge how tight our finances were, or think I was the crazy girl who had to use coupons everywhere she'd go.
I learned to scour the sales ads, figure out the best price on meat, and spent a solid two years learning grocery budgeting as a full time job while it completely transformed our family's finances.

It totally changed the way our family lived.

But learning all that took me so.
much.

time.

I stayed up all night long, spent every ounce of naptime and any moment of free time I could find doing research and learning every single thing I could to eek out every last penny for our family.

I saw crazy success (CRAZY), but it took so, so, so much work.

And I didn't have any balance at all ~ I spent too long working for every ounce of savings, rather than figuring out the easiest ways to save that also saved me time.

And there was no community to support me. I just did it on my own kind of in secret, wishing someone else would get as excited as I did about hanging out at the grocery store.

That's why when I took my friend Erin's Grocery Budget Makeover Course I was so impressed. Because I wish someone had gifted me back then with this exact course, saving me so much time and effort since all the keys are right there.

I even considered creating a ‘Passionate Penny Pincher' course, but realized hers was so well laid out and really exactly what I would teach, that I would rather work alongside her to teach you how to save.

If you're in that place where I was struggling to find room in your budget, I know this is just for you.

I promise (promise!), you will earn back the money you spend on this course in the very first month (maybe first week?) decide to Makeover Your Grocery Budget.

And until TOMORROW ONLY, you can sign up (the course will close until at least 2019, because I want to make sure I have plenty of time to help each person who takes the course). The course is VERY reasonably priced (so much less than other similar courses I've seen!) and worth every single penny.

HERE'S WHAT YOU GET WHEN YOU SIGN UP:

• Private Super Secret Facebook Group led by me and my friend Shannon (who I PROMISE is determined to see you slash your grocery budget ~ I promise, WE WILL HELP YOU WIN AT THIS!) encouraging you each day while the course runs from Tuesday, August 28th until October ~ the ONLY way to get into the Private Facebook Group is to join the makeover so we're all on the same page!
• 10 Lessons with Instructional and Informational Videos
• Each lesson also includes a worksheet and printable resources
• In depth lessons on couponing in the private Facebook group as well as throughout the course
• Cooking demo videos
• Bonus videos on how to deal with food allergies on a budget
• Bonus videos discussing mobile apps so you can save using your phone without even clipping coupons
• Bonus lesson on how to shop online for groceries, including grocery pickup and grocery delivery services
• OPTIONAL COURSE WORKBOOK MAILED TO YOU (VERY LIMITED SUPPLY ON THESE ~ ORDER TONIGHT!)
• OPTIONAL LIVE COUPON WORKSHOP THIS TUESDAY, 8/28/18 from 8-10PM Eastern Time
• And so much fun encouragement and motivation along the way!

Go HERE if you are in that place where you don't know how to change your finances. Course registration will only be open for a few days, so I'm hoping you'll hop on board with me.

No matter who you are, you HAVE to eat and spend money at the grocery store, so you might as well know the best ways to save.

Do you feel financially strapped, and are you just tired of living paycheck to paycheck?

I understand.

I've been there too.

But I can help.

I promise.

Join me today.

I'm cheering for you! 🙂

x0 Laurie

P.S. IMPORTANT: If you've already signed up and paid you should have received an email with login information and a link to join our private Facebook group. Be sure to check your spam folder for all the updates so you have them before class begins on Tuesday!

Head over to NordstromRack.com and snag an AWESOME deal on Asics Running Shoes!  Several pair are on sale for $39.97 – reg up to $70.

Women's Gel Contend 4 Running Shoes – $39.97 (reg $70) *Some colors are $49.97
*Style #T765N

Men's Gel Venture Running Shoes – $39.97 (Reg $70)
* Style #T7G1N

Shipping is FREE on orders over $100, otherwise it's $7.95.

5 College Move-In Day Must Haves

Jamie here!

We on the PPP Team are getting sooooo close to move-in day for our college kiddos – it's so crazy that it's almost here!

If you spent the summer playing with your kids instead of purchasing everything on the Ultimate College Packing List (um… nobody here would do that!) …. don't worry.  Here's a super-shortened list of just those things you MUST have purchased for them by Day 1.   This is just the things they need to survive for that first few nights.  Juuuust until they look around and know better what they want/need. 🙂

Welcome to the *LESS-STRESS* version of the college move-in list!

*REMEMBER* – we can always Amazon Prime the little extras they think of later, plus just about every campus has a Walmart/Dollar General nearby!

1 . Bedding

Sheets –  Tuck them in from afar with a nice, new set of XL Twin Dorm sheets. My favorite sheets EVER are these PeachSkinSheets.  They are incredibly soft and smooth – and come in a bajillion colors.  You know that feeling of coolness when you slide your legs in between *nice* sheets?  Yep – that's what I'm talking about 🙂  *Tip: there's a special deal on certain colors each month!

Pillows – When you pick up pillows I think more is better.  Remember that college kids use their bed as THE place to hang out, do homework, eat and sleep.  So in addition to two regular pillows, you may want to grab a backrest pillow as well.

Comforter – In a hurry?  Get a basic reversible comforter for $20 shipped!  Or if you have more time to browse – there are some GORGEOUS comforters at Target and they're 30% OFF through TODAY. (7/31)

2 . Laptop and Desk Supplies

Okay so your kiddo has a place to sleep, and a way to wear clean clothes, now how about homework?

They'll need a laptop, surge protector, reading light, pens, notebook and paper as they begin – but beyond that your student will likely be able to pick up more things a week or so later.  (Let them see what they really need first rather than sending them off with unnecessary supplies.)

Keep in mind that computers, printers, staplers, hole punches and more can likely be found in the schools computer lab area.

3 . Hamper & Hangers

Your student will need a hamper for their dirty laundry, preferably one that's easy to carry to the laundry room.   Throw in some clothes hangers to hang up all the things that won't fit in the tiny dressers.

You can definitely send detergent, dryer sheets, etc… but another option is to just hand over a roll of quarters and they can buy it from the laundry room the first few times.  Remember, we're stripping the big giant list down to just the necessities here!

4 . Shower Supplies

Toiletries & Caddy – Beyond them packing their own toothbrush – you'll need to send toiletries and shower supplies to keep your freshman smelling… fresh!  Snag an inexpensive shower caddy that will both store toiletries and be used to carry them.

Towels – Get two towels at least – that way one clean one can always be in rotation.  If your student has an in-room bathroom, you'll also need toilet paper, a bath rug and possibly a shower curtain.

5 . Water Bottle

You don't necessarily need dishes – but a big, refillable, easy-to-clean water bottle your student can use in their room and on the go is a MUST.

Okay so…. that's it!

You could drop off your college freshman on move-in day with just supplies for their bed, laundry, showering and desk, plus a water bottle and some money, and…. they would be okay!

What do you think? Does this help de-stress you a bit to know that as long as you have these things gathered, they'll survive long enough for you to send  reinforcements?  What would you add to this list as a must-have for day 1?

(You'll notice a microwave and fridge aren't on this list, and that's because if we're being really basic – your student won't need them.  With a food plan that colleges require freshmen to have, a fridge and microwave are extra conveniences that are nice – but not essential on move-in day.)

Penny Pinching a priority?

If you have more time to look around for deals, and less dough to do it, make sure to check out our College Dorm List *Best Price* List!  It'll help you navigate the stores without losing site of the best prices available.

Today ONLY on Zulily – you can snag any of the following pair of women's New Balance running shoes for only $32.99! (Reg $65 – $75)  Sizes are selling out fast – so check them out soon!

Water Vapor Lifestyle Sneaker

Silver Mink Fitness Urgev2 Running Sneaker

Lonoke Trail Running Shoe

Gray Fuelcore Coast V3 Running Shoe

Gunmetal 415 Training Shoe 

Shipping is free on a $49+ purchase – or check your inbox as they occasionally send out free shipping codes to customers who haven't shopped in awhile!

Find more top retail deals.

Build a Bear Birthday

I love this! After last week's crazy Build-A-Bear Birthday Promotion, don't miss this alternative which I think is the perfect fix. Your child can now get a Build-A-Bear Bear for the cost of their age during their birthday month. Here's how:

Go HERE

Sign your child up for the Build a Bear Bonus Club (it's free!)

During your child's birthday month they'll receive a bear for their age ($14 value)

• a Special Birthday Heart Ceremony
• Birthday Heart for Their Furry Friend
• Birthday Cake Photo Prop
• Birthday Sticker Birthday Party Hat
• Ringing the Birthday Bell
• Singing “Happy Birthday!”

So fun! Go HERE to learn more. 

Head over to NordstromRack.com and snag some nice deals on a few different pairs of Tory Burch shoes/boots!  Plus shipping is FREE on orders of $100+

Tory Burch is definitely a more pricey brand – but if you love them, then we might as well find a good deal right?

Jolie Ballet Flat – 69% OFF

Marion Quilted Sandal – 42% OFF

Adeline Boot – 40% OFF

April Waterproof Rainboot – 40%

Find more top retail deals.

Check out these awesome Amazon Prime Day Blu-Ray Deals going on right now!  All these are under $10 – though there are a few pricier ones that are AWESOME deals as well 🙂

Jurassic Park Blu-Ray – $6.30

Jurassic Park: The Lost World Blu-Ray – $6.30

Jurassic Park III Blu-Ray – $6.30

Jurassic World – $7.88

Ferdinand Blu-Ray – $7.99

Secret Life of Pets Blu-Ray – $8

Peter Rabbit Blu-Ray – $9.80

Can I just tell you how awesome I am? 😉

Because goodness, if I didn't think I was the ultimate penny pincher before now, this one takes the cake. 🙂

Earlier in the week my daughter and I ran out for a quick Goodwill run (I'm looking for a dresser for my son to take to college, and finding something we can easily throw some paint on is the plan!)

But when I saw this cute chair for $25, I kind of got sidetracked.

And then it got even better.

Because I shop Goodwill every few months, I had a $10 off coupon from their regular shopper punch card, making this chair just FIFTEEN DOLLARS.

I couldn't resist. 🙂

After sharing it over on my instagram story (I'd sure love for you to follow me on Instagram HERE!), I had several messages from folks who actually had this chair and had paid FULL PRICE FOR IT AT PIER 1!

Now, if you're not all awesome like me 🙂 , you can snag this same one yourself at Pier 1 for $319. (Find Pier 1 coupon codes  HERE.)

Or check your local Goodwill because you just never know when you might get really lucky too. 🙂 

I'm doing some research as to how to thoroughly clean it (I've already sprinkled it with baking soda and vacuumed ~ I love Goodwill but upholstered furniture there worries me a bit!), but I think it's going to work perfectly in our guest bedroom.

Success!

Have you snagged any awesome deals at Goodwill lately? I'd love to hear what you've found ~ leave a comment to share (I love hearing from you!)

Looking for more things to look for at Goodwill? Here you go! 

Back to School Sales

Back to School Sales

It's here it's here it's here it's here!!!! I’m so excited about this free printable back to school sales cheat sheet that the PPP team put together for you! We just updated it (as of 6/27/18) with all of the basic prices at Target, Walmart, Staples, Office Max and Office Depot, so hopefully this will make Back To School Shopping a wee bit easier for you.

The best part? We'll be updating it weekly as the new Back to School deals come up, and once you print your free printable we'll send those price updates right to your inbox too. You'll never miss a deal!

Here are a few things you need to remember about this list:

• Pricing will vary some by area. Staples, Office Depot and Office Max pricing should be fairly consistent nationwide, but Walmart and Target prices may be slightly different depending on your location.
• The regular prices on some items at Staples, Office Max and Office Depot are significantly higher on a few things, however their weekly sales ads will have deeply discounted savings that are worth picking up each week.
• Note that Target, Staples and Office Depot/Office Max have much lower prices on their store brands that are not all included on this list. Watch for those when you shop. (We based the list for the most part on name brands to make the pricing consistent at each store.)
• Since Walmart doesn’t typically offer big sales on their items (just every day low prices), my bet is the Walmart pricing should be pretty similar to what you’ll find at your local Walmart throughout the Back-To School season.

As always, there is no guarantee on this pricing but this should give you a basic reference guide!

Go HERE to print your free printable Target ~ Walmart ~ Staples ~ Office Depot/Max Back to School Comparison Cheat Sheet, and share with your friends this school season so they can pinch those pennies too!

(And while you're at it, don't miss these Amazon School Supply Deals too.)

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Many of you may have heard that Zaycon has suspended business operations as of today, June 25, 2018. At this point I'm not sure if this means that they will completely shut down, or if they are re-structuring (which is my hope!)

This company has been around for 10 years and has been AMAZING to work with until the last few months. I promise I'm working diligently to see what  more I can find out, but want you to know how very disappointed I am about this for those of you who've purchased from Zaycon in the past. Several PPP team members have orders out, and we're all waiting to hear what happens next.

I honestly have no idea of any information beyond that, however here's what I'd recommend you try to do:

1 – Send an email to Zaycon questions@zayconfresh.com

2 – Dispute the charges with your bank, credit card company or Paypal

3 – Wait and hope they deliver

If you dispute a charge, that may take up to 30 to 90 days to get that money back. As of today there were still people receiving deliveries, so if you have a delivery scheduled and don't hear that it's been cancelled, I would try to pick up your delivery at your scheduled time (I'm crossing my fingers for you!)

Please know that I'm working hard to learn more, and I just hate this because I really have loved this company in the past. I'm hoping and praying that somehow this gets resolved and will update you if I find out more information.

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