About two weeks ago, I decided that I wanted to learn how to coupon. We have a family of four now. The food costs are rather high and saving money is always a good thing. We have quite a bit of debt, not too much income, and there are simple things that I'd like to afford that are not currently in the budget like preschool for my tot or recreational classes for the kids like swimming, martial arts, or music.
Anyhow, I figure short of getting a job (not sure how much money that would bring in with child care costs) the only way to more money is to spend less. That and I love a good challenge. I'm starting small in hopes that I won't burn out or get too confused. So, I'm hoping to have a post once or twice a week about my progress. Granted, I've clipped a coupon here and there before. I've saved maybe $10-$15 on a shopping trip but I would like to REALLY coupon. :)
Here's my first real trip. It's not much. And I'm still buying things that we REALLY like and haven't become completely disregarding of brands yet. We'll see how it goes.

I got:
Dreyer's Ice Cream $2.99 (on sale, no coupon)
Mrs Refro's Salsa $4.19 (I know it's REALLY pricy but it's the BEST we've ever had and we try to use it sparingly)
Round Eye Roast $4.34 ($5 off coupon)
Foster Farms Chicken Breast Tenders $2.59 ($5 off coupon)
Roma tomatoes $.23 (on sale for $.47 a pound)
Belpastry Maple Pecan bars FREE (with coupon)
The receipt said I saved $17.55 or 55%. I tried to find smaller amount of meat but they were pretty well picked over.