Today (Oct. 31) Chipotle will be offering burritos, bowls, salads or an order of tacos for only $2 when you come in dressed in any farm-inspired costume after 6 p.m. The Boorito event will donate the proceeds to The Chipotle Cultivate Foundation and Farm Aid, so dress up as your favorite “farmer, crop, animal, or farm implement” if you want to participate!

Participating Krispy Kreme shops are giving away a free Halloween or pumpkin spice doughnut to anyone who comes in wearing a costume (no purchase necessary). To get your free doughnut, print this coupon or show it to the cashier on your smart phone.

TGI Fridays locations will be offering free appetizers to anyone in costume tonight. The fine print says there’s a limit of one free appetizer per person — but not per table. Click here for more information on Frightful Fridays.

Click here for a printable coupon good at O’Charley’s tonight. With it, you’ll get 20% off to-go orders tonight. This is a great deal for families rushing around before trick-or-treating!

Know of any more special deals in honor of the holiday? Share them!

Photo by Walmartstores.com

Be sure you hold on to any ads containing products you’re interested in Nov. 1 through Dec. 25, because you might be able to get some money back with the Wal-Mart Christmas Price Guarantee.

This program is offering shoppers Wal-Mart gift cards containing the price difference of a product advertised for less at another store. Now, to get the deal you’ll need to show Customer Service the ad and your Wal-Mart receipt (both dated between Nov. 1 and Dec. 25).

The product must be identical to what you’ve already purchased (the same brand, size, color, quantity, grade and model number), and be available at competitor’s stores located within the same local market as your particular Wal-Mart store.

One thing about this deal that I think is especially great: items on layaway will be eligible. A few things that aren’t so great: Black Friday and Internet deals are not eligible.

What do you think about this program? Will you be using it to save on your holiday shopping?

You’ll receive up to three coupon booklets with the paper: SmartSource, Redplum and a P&G Brandsaver.

Petsmart is having a 3-day sale Nov. 4 through 6, and some of the best deals are on popular products. Select Kong products for dogs and cats is 30% off, all Martha Steward Pets products are 20% off, select Tetra fish are only $1 each, and various dog and cat food and treats are on sale. Sale prices throughout the rest of the ad are good through Nov. 27.

Kmart is having a Holiday Preview Sale, and you’ll find their selection of outerwear, sweaters, fleece, cold-weather accessories, sleepwear and robes 50% off. Plus, footwear for the entire family is buy 1, get 1 50% off.
If you’re doing last-minute Halloween shopping, all of their costumes are 50% off, and various bags of candy are on sale today and tomorrow only.
Additionally, over 400 grocery, houshold, drug and beauty items are 10/$10, and the store is doubling manufacturer coupons up to 99 cents through Nov. 5.

It may not even be Halloween yet, but I can tell we’re officially entering the holiday shopping season because the Toys R Us Great Big Toy Book is here! Kids love flipping through this 80 page book and making their Christmas list, and you’ll appreciate the sale prices and advertised promotions. There’s also a coupon on the back offering a free $10 gift card with a purchase of $75 or more.

Walgreens is also having a 2-day sale on Halloween goodies. Various candies are on sale, have coupons available, and are offering register rewards. Don’t forget the coupon good for $5 off of costumes.
The retailer is also offering a $5 in register rewards with a $20 purchase of qualifying products. This is an opportunity to really stock up, because most of these products have coupons in today’s paper, or have had coupons in the paper recently. Combine all of these offers for the best deal!

There’s no Joann Fabric ad this week, but don’t forget that they accept competitor’s coupons, and Michaels and AC Moore both have some available this week.

AC Moore is having a Super Sunday sale today only, and you’ll find big savings on frames (55% off), kids products like Crayola, Thomas & Friends and K’Nex (50% off), artist supplies (50% off) and the entire stock of papercrafting goods (40% off).
They’re also having an early sale on Christmas merchandise. The entire stock of garlands, ribbon, Poinsettia pots, pine wreaths, seasonal flags and winter stems is 50% off. Additionally, various holiday crafting goods arebetween $1 and $9.
The coupons available this week include one for 55% of plus an additional $10 off a custom framing order, 40% off a regular priced item Monday through Saturday, and 50% off a regular priced item today.

Michaels is also starting the Christmas season early with a sale on wreaths, ornaments, wall and tabletop decor, village collections, floral arrangements, candleholders, stems and ribbons all 40% off. The inside of the ad is also filled with deals on trees, light up decor, figurines and more.
Papercrafting products are on sale this week as well, with bonus coupons available for 25% off regular priced Martha Stewart Crafts scrapbooking products and 40% off the entire stock of regular priced Jolee’s and Sticko stickers.
The other coupons available this week include one for 50% off any regular priced item today and Monday and 40% off any regular priced item Tuesday through Saturday.

This week Target has over 1,000 video games buy 2, get 1 free. This includes games for Nintendo DS, Wii, XBOX 360 and PS3.
There’s also a note about the store’s Holiday Toy Catalog, which might appear in your mailbox Tuesday, containing over $200 in toy coupons.
Mossimo women’s jeans are on sale this week for only $20, and men’s Mossimo sherpa-lined hoodies are only $22. Tons off pajamas for kids are on sale and under $10.

Big Lots is having a sale on video games, too. They’re offering Disney video games buy 1, get 1 50% off, and Disney Nintendo DS cases for only $6.
Remington clippers, hair dryers and other beauty products are on closeout for only $10, and various DVDs are only $5 each.

Sears is celebrating its 125 birthday with a big sale. There’s a coupon good for an extra 15% off all regular, sale and clearance clothing, accessories and intimate apparel, to begin with.
You’ll also find fleece for the entire family 50% off, various men’s shirts for $14.99 and under, 40% off knit tops for women and footwear for the family buy 1, get 1 50% off.

Belk’s Winter Home Sale begins today, and there are three days of bonus buys (today through Tuesday). There’s also a coupon good for 15% off your entire regular and sale priced home purchase today through Tuesday.
Some of the sale items include Lenox seasonal china (buy 4 on sale, get 2 free), 60% off the entire stock of Leisure luggage, an extra 10% off the entire stock of toasters and toaster ovens, 60% off Home Accents Santas and nutcrackers, 50% off various Christmas ornaments and decor, and 50% off holiday serveware by Home Accents.

CVS is continuing its free gift card promotion (spend $30, get a free $10 gift card for various retailers) this week, so check out what products qualify. Many of them are on sale and have coupons available, so you could get a lot for your $30.
Also, Halloween decor, animation, lighting and costumes is 25% off, and various candies are on sale as well.
One of the easiest ways to get ExtraBucks this week is to buy 3 American Greetings cards — you’ll get $3 in ExtraBucks back.
In the grocery section, you’ll find tons of items 10/$10, including a few that you might have coupons for, too.

At Kroger’s 10 item Mega Event, you’ll save $5 when you buy any 10 participating items. Some of these items include Pepsi drinks, Del Monte canned veggies, Swanson broth, Land O Lakes butter, Cool Whip, Pringles, Healthy Choice entrees, Oscar Mayer Lunchables, various frozen pizzas and more. It should be very easy to get your 10 items!
Other good deals include bell peppers 10/$10, Green Giant and Kroger frozen veggies 10/$10, and avacados 10/$10.
You can earn 4 times the fuel points by buying iTunes or Fandango gift cards through Nov. 5, so if you’re thinking about seeing a movie or ready for some new tunes pick up these cards!

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at both SmartSource and Redplum websites.

I received an email from Redbox yesterday outlining their new prices. The price for daily DVD rentals is increasing, but the price of Blu-Ray and game rentals will stay the same. Here’s what the email said:

“Starting on Monday, October 31, the daily rental charge for DVDs will change to $1.20 a day.* The price change is due to rising operating expenses, including new increases in debit card fees. Daily rental charges for Blu-ray™ Discs and video games won’t change.** Additional-day charges for DVDs rented before 10/31 won’t be affected, either.

In order to make the transition easier, Redbox will discount the first day of all online DVD rentals to $1.00 from 10/31 through 11/30. Additional rental days will be $1.20.***

If you have any questions, please visit redbox.com/pricechange. There, we’ve provided additional information. ”

*Daily rental charge will be $1.27 in Maryland.
**Maryland pricing for Blu-ray and games: $1.59 a day for Blu-ray; $2.12 a day for games.
***Maryland pricing for online reservations: $1.00 the first day, $1.27 for additional days. May not combine offers. Normal rental fees apply after first day.

This price increase isn’t entirely surprising, especially after we saw Netflix prices change so drastically a few months ago.

Will this change your rental habits?

You’ll receive up to three coupon booklets with the paper: SmartSource, Redplum and a P&G Brandsaver.

Petsmart is having a 3-day sale Nov. 4 through 6, and some of the best deals will be on popular pet products. Sale prices throughout the rest of the ad will be good through Nov. 27.

Kmart is having a Holiday Preview Sale, and you’ll find apparel for the whole family on sale.
If you’re doing last-minute Halloween shopping be sure to check out the ad, too.
Additionally, over 400 grocery, houshold, drug and beauty items will be on sale, and the store is still doubling manufacturer coupons up to 99 cents through Nov. 5.

Toys R Us has an ad that will quickly put your kids in the holiday spirit. There are some deals in there that will be attractive for the parents, too.

Walgreens is will be having a 2-day sale on Halloween goodies. The retailer is also offering a new way to stock up on register rewards next week.

There’s no Joann Fabric ad coming, but don’t forget that they accept competitor’s coupons, and Michaels and AC Moore both have some available this week.

AC Moore is having a Super Sunday sale on various crafting items for the family, but  they’ll also begin an early sale on Christmas merchandise.

Michaels will also be starting the Christmas season early with a sale, and papercrafting items will be a hot buy next week, too.

 Target has some great deals for gamers next week, and there are also some bargains available on apparel for the family.

Big Lots has deals for gamers next week, too, but there are also some closeout deals that should catch your eye.

Sears is celebrating its 125 birthday with a big sale. There’s not only a coupon, but big discounts on products throughout the entire store next week.

Belk’s Winter Home Sale begins Sunday, so fast forward through Halloween and start thinking about Christmas! You’ll want to stock up on your decor early

CVS is continuing its free gift card promotion (spend $30, get a free $10 gift card for various retailers) next week, so check out what products qualify. Also, last minute Halloween shoppers will be able to find some deals.

At Kroger’s 10 item Mega Event, you’ll save $5 when you buy any 10 participating items. Many of the products are freezer and pantry staples, so stock up while it pays off. There’s also a new opportunity coming to earn four times the fuel points.
Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at both SmartSource and Redplum websites.

With the holiday season coming, you start seeing gift sets pop up in retailers more and more. Walmart and Target generally have tons of these filled with all kinds of goodies, but this year you could possibly snag one for free.

Here’s the deal:

An example of a Pantene set that can be found at Target.

Both retailers are marketing gift sets, Walmart with Febreze and Target with Pantene, that include magazine subscriptions. However, you can opt out of the magazine subscription in most cases with a card found inside the gift pack. Follow the directions, and send in your receipt with the card and you’ll get a rebate for cash back.

Both baskets run about $9.99. You can find the gift baskets on Target’s website, but they are sold out right now. Walmart doesn’t seem to have the baskets online.

Check your local stores for other deals like this. Don’t assume the pack will have a rebate in it, but I know for sure that these two do. It looks like the common thing these rebate-eligible baskets offer is magazine subscriptions, so if you find one promoting that then chances are you’ve found yourself a deal!

Have you found these gift sets or any similar sets locally?

*Note: Target’s website has been on the fritz for the past 2 days because of the $5 off online purchase offer, which is good through Saturday. Use the TGT75HFN to get this deal.

While I have heard of swap parties, I only recently became truly enlightened on the beauty of swapping your trash for a friend’s treasure.

These parties are like shopping, except you spend less, get rid of those pieces taking up room in your closet and don’t have to venture to the mall — what’s not to love?

 There are a lot of variations on the details of a swap party, but generally the idea is that guests bring a certain number of items and then take turns picking through the loot to find something that works for them.

 One idea I like is expanding your swap parties to include things other than clothes.

Consider holding a swap party for movies (there’s only so many times you can rewatch “Titanic,” right?), books, toys, plants, jewelry, accessories and even recipes. Instead of throwing a regular potluck, have attendees bring recipe cards along with their dish, and voila, a swap party is born.

Hosting these types of parties also makes it easier for everyone to find something that works for them; it’s much less difficult when sizes aren’t involved. For clothing swaps, consider having a theme, such as all kids’ clothes or seasonal clothes.

Also, don’t forget about men’s clothing and costumes. A neighborhood full of families with kids of various ages could easily throw a Halloween swap party, leading to big savings on costumes and even decor — certain decorations can wear out their welcome in your home after years of use.

Don’t exclude men from the fun, either. Wearing ties and sport jackets every day can get monotonous, so swapping these pieces can really give their look a boost.

Here are some tips for throwing a successful swap party of your own:

 * Have a minimum and maximum number of items each person should bring. This keeps the number of items available for each person to pick from proportional to the number of guests.

* Don’t feel like everyone in attendance has to be the same size. Someone may have clothes that are now too big or too small, and even larger-sized items can be brought back in style by cinching the waste with a belt.

* Encourage attendees to bring their items a day or two early so you can organize the goods.

* Invite people who wear different styles of clothing. Even if you don’t want to dress exactly like them, having pieces of clothing that differ from what you usually buy can liven up your wardrobe. If you don’t end up wearing the pieces, you haven’t lost any money and you can just swap it again.

* Donate the leftover items. If you haven’t used a piece of clothing or an accessory, or read a book within a year, you probably won’t get around to it after the swap, either. Let these items go to people who need them more.

Do you have any swap stories to share?

Also, check out this free Cookie Swap digital cookbook from Gooseberry Patch on Amazon. (Note: Amazon prices can change at any time, so make sure the price reads $0.00 before you click to purchase!) Maybe it will inspire you to throw a swap party of your own!

Today through Monday (Oct. 25-31) Dollar General has all of its summer clearance, which includes lawn and garden, swim and summer toys, and green dot home items, for 10 cents. Select clearance apparel is also only $1.

The selection will vary by store, but I recommend going early — the shelves will clear out fast will prices like this.

Also, don’t forget about Five Off Friday. Print off the coupon here and receive $5 off of a $25 purchase on Friday (Oct. 28).

Sure, you can buy a whole case of Coke at Sam's Club, but will it save you any money? Not if you clip coupons. Photo by Forbes.com.

One of my favorite blogs, Southern Savers, recently posted this great chart with a breakdown of the average cost of buying in bulk vs. buying with coupons.

Of course, some of the prices will vary, but it’s still a good eye-opener. With the popularity of coupons on the rise, many items are not the bargain that they used to be in bulk. I think it’s a major negative that you can’t use coupons at warehouse clubs. However, if you don’t want to spend the time clipping coupons these clubs are generally cheaper than the average, non-sale retail price of many products.

Check out the full chart here.

Dairy products and fresh meats are still a good deal at these clubs for coupon users, but is that worth a full year’s membership fee?

Check out the numbers and think about your shopping bill. Are you really saving money with your Sam’s Club or other warehouse club membership?

Photo by People.com.

Lately iTunes has had multiple opportunities for free music, and here’s one for country music fans.

People Magazine has partnered with iTunes to give away 9 free songs by popular country artists.

The songs available include:

Click here to download your free songs. This offer expires Nov. 15.

This is the last full week before Halloween, so you’ll find sales on candy and other holiday related products almost everywhere you go this week.

There are up to two coupon booklets that could be coming your way this weekend: SmartSource and Redplum. You might find a flier for O’Charley’s with a $5 coupon, as well.

Toys R Usis offering a free Little Tikes toy up to $24.99 with any Little Tikes purchase of $24.99, so think about picking up a couple toys for the holidays. Also, all Halloween books, Mega Bloks Halo construction sets, Breyer horses, Melissa & Doug puzzles, Fisher-Price TRIO construction sets and NERF blasters are buy 1, get 1 50% off.
You’ll find Halloween candy as low as $1.99, and all Halloween costumes and accessories are 40% off this week. .

Kmart has all Halloween costumes 50% off this week, and all snack-size candy is 2/$5 (remember to use any manufacturer coupons too).
The retailer has also decided to double any manufacturer coupons up to 99 cents on grocery and health/beauty items through Saturday (Oct. 29). Usually stores only double up to 50 cents, so that means a lot of savings!

 Dick’s Sporting Goods  has all Field & Stream hunting apparel and boots for 25% off this week. Additionally, all Field & Stream and Wigwam socks are buy 1, get 1 50% off.

JC Penney Salonhas a new batch of coupons good on products and services. If  you’re considering trying a new salon, check out the coupon good for a $20 cut & style. Haircare is buy 2, get 1 free, and you may be able to combine that with the coupon on the back good for $5 off a retail purchase of $35 or more.

Rack Room Shoes has everyday savings of buy one pair, get one 50% off, but this week there’s also a coupon good for $10 off of a $60 purchase.

Walgreens has some great prices on Halloween items this week, but go early because they’ll sell fast. Clip the in-store coupons good for $5 off costumes, fun or snack size candy for $1.99, a 69 cent trick-or-treat bag, and 4/$1 votive candles. It looks like their stock of candy is on sale, and some of it will even earn you register rewards. Just remember to combine all of these sales and rewards with any manufacturer coupons you have saved, too.

Joann Fabric  has most fall and Halloween merchandise 40 to 60% off, but you’ll also find an early sale on Christmas products. Christmas wreaths, bushes, stems and garlands are 30% off, and cinnamon-scented pine cones are 2/$10.
There are coupons available for 40% off a regular priced item, and 60% off a custom framing order. Remember that Joann takes competitors coupons, too!

AC Moore has their entire stock of fall floral and Halloween decor 50 to 75% off, so consider stocking up for next year.
Tons of crafting products for kids are also on sale. The entire stock of Crayola is 50% off, the entire stock of Melissa and Doug products is 50% off, white T-shirts are 5/$10, the entire stock of science kits or Scene-A-Rama is 40% off and the entire stock of Chuggington trains and accessories is buy 1, get 1 free..
Christmas products are on sale already, too. Ready-to-decorate wreaths are $3.99, mini trees and ornaments are 40% off, and pine cones and cinnamon sticks are only $2.99.
There are coupons available good for 57% off of a custom framing purchase, 40% off any regular priced item (starts Tuesday) and 50% off any regular priced item for today and Monday only.

Of course Michaels also has their Halloween and fall merchandise up to 60% off this week, but there’s a special sale for beaders. Bead Gallery strung beads and Bead Landing glass beads are 50% off, and other bead collections are 30 to 40% off. Spend $25 or more in the jewelry department and you’ll be rewarded with a free gift — a jewelry travel pouch valued at $10.
There are also coupons available good for 10% off your entire purchase from 4 to 8 p.m. tonight, 40% off any regular priced item all week, 25% off your entire regular priced purchase on Saturday and 25% off your entire purchase of frames all week.

JC Penney is offering an extra 15% off all regular, sale and clearance prices when you shop today and tomorrow. You’ll get 20% off if you use a JC Penney Rewards credit card.
Even if you can’t make it to the store that soon, there are plenty of deals throughout the week.
Coats for the family are 50 to 60% off, select watches are up to 40% off, men’s Stafford dress shirts are as low as $15.99, baby and toddler Okie Dokie outfits are as low as $4.79 and kids’ Arizona denim is as low as $15.99.

Fashion Bug is having a big fall sale this week. All tops and sweaters and boots will be $10 off, all pants and jackets $15 off, all dresses $20 off and all coats $25 off. Remember to use the coupon on the back of the ad and you’ll earn $10 off a purchase of $25 or more through Nov. 19.
Shop between today and Friday (Oct. 28), and you’ll receive a Halloween shopping back. Bring this bag back next Saturday or Sunday (Oct. 29 and 30), and you’ll receive an extra 10% off your purchase. As the ad points out, combine this deal with the coupon for the most savings.

CVS is following the trend of blowing out Halloween items, and you’ll find a lot of good prices on candy (remember to combine any manufacturer coupons with the sale and ExtraBucks rewards), 25% off costumes, make up and accessories, and a great sale on carving tools — they’re free when you factor in an ExtraBucks reward. 
You can earn free gift cards to select retailers when you spend $30 or more on specially marked items. Some participating products include Cheez-It crackers, Fritos and Cheetos, Kraft  macaroni products,  Sally Henson beauty tools, nail color and treatments, Scott paper products and Duracell batteries.
One other important deal: You’ll receive $10 in ExtraBucks when you buy $50 worth of iTunes gift cards.

For two-days you can get extra savings at Sears on sleepwear and robes, Joe Boxer velour pants and hoodies, long-sleeve henleys for men and Wolverine men’s workboots. You’ll find Levis, fall apparel for kids, intimates, basics for men and women and coats for 40 to 60% off. One nice perk is that there’s no coupon necessary for these savings.

During Staples Dollar Days HP photo paper, Breast Cancer Awareness writing pads, steno books and expanding envelopes will be $1. HP multipurpose paper, Z-grip pens, catalog envelopes and dry-erase markers will be $2. 
There are also some coupons tucked inside good for $50 off a chair of $175 or more, $100 of a chair of $275 or more, 30% off any copy & print purchase of $30 or more and $30 off any HP inkjet printer at $199 or more.

Target has various Halloween candies on sale, treat bags for $2, head-and-tail sets for $8, makeup tubes for $1, and kid’s costumes for as low as $10. 
You can earn free gift cards with the purchase of a Nintendo 3DS game systems ($25 card), “Battlefield 3″ and any Dr. Pepper 12-pack ($10 card), an RCA Blue0ray player and “Spooky Buddies” Blu-ray ($10 card), RCA 5-disk CD changer and “Kidz Bop Halloween Party CD” ($10 card) and select dog and cat items ($5 card).
There are some great prices on apparel, like: Merona socks and tights for $7 each, Mossimo V-neck Tees for women for $6, women’s scuff slippers for $5, toddler girls’ flats for $10 and boys’ Cherokee long-sleeve tees for $6.

Big Lots is cutting the price on their Halloween and fall-themed products, and you’ll find Halloween party favors and paper supplies 2/$7, Halloween candy for $2.50 to $3 and all costumes and decor 30% off.
There are some good deals in grocery, too, like Campbell’s soup for $1 each or 4/$3, Hunt’s tomatoes for $1 and Little Debbie Big Packs for $3.

Kroger  is having a big meat sale this week. You’ll find an early sale on turkeys for 79 cents/lb., split chicken breasts 99 cents/lb., and Ball Park Franks buy 1, get 1 free. 
There’s also a big new batch of 10/$10 deals. Some of the participating products include Kroger breads, Campbell’s soup, Crest toothpaste, Hamburger Helper, Chobani yogurt, Chef Boyardee, Snack Packs and more.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at both SmartSource and Redplum websites.

Photo deals are all over the internet, all the time. You can always find a bargain on prints, but everyone knows freebies are the best.

Walgreens is offering a free 8×10 collage print when you use the code CLG8x10  at checkout. Choose to pick up your print in the store and you’ll also avoid shipping costs. This deal expires Saturday (Oct. 22).
You can also get an 11×14 poster print for only $1.99 by using the code PSTR4LESS at checkout.

The Sears Portrait Studio has a printable coupon available now offering a free designer montag ($44.98 value). Even better, the coupon will waive the session fee, and there’s no purchase necessary — so it’s a completely free professional photo! This coupon expires Nov. 30.
The website also has a few other nice coupons, like an extra 20% off your entire purchase plus no session fee, and 26 photos for only $7.99 plus no session fee.  Both of these offers expire Nov. 30, as well.

Get ready to stock up on all things Halloween starting Sunday, stores are ready to clear the shelves!

Before I get into what you can expect Sunday, here are a few printable coupons you can access now:

Fisher Price has up to $45 worth of printable coupons available on their website. Print them now, but hang on to them — the coupons are valid until Dec. 31, so combine them with the pre-Christmas sales that are sure to come on these toys. 

Dollar General also has some nice printables available on their website, but the real standout is the one good for $5 off of a $25 purchase. This coupon expires Saturday.

Now, there’s a lot to highlight for this Sunday, so pay attention if you’re shopping for something particular! If you’re in the market for Halloween products, though, you’ll be able to find them on sale just about everywhere.

There are up to two coupon booklets that could be coming your way this weekend: SmartSource and Redplum.

Toys R Us is continuing their trend of great BOGO sales next week, and there will be some especially good deals on Halloween goodies.

Kmart will also have some great deals on Halloween products next week, and there’s some exciting news about their coupon policy coming out as well.

Beginning Sunday, Dick’s Sporting Goods will have a sale that’s very attractive to any outdoorsmen and women.

JC Penney Salon coupons are some of my favorite, they usually mean big savings on high-dollar products, and there are more coming your way.

Rack Room Shoes has a new flier for this Sunday, and they’ll have a coupon available to add to their everyday BOGO savings.

Walgreens not only has tons of their Halloween merchandise on sale next week, but there are loads of in-store coupons and register rewards, too.

Joann Fabric is blowing out their fall and Halloween merchandise next week and bringing in some Christmas products — some of that will be on sale already, too.

AC Moore is following suite with a big fall and Hallween sale, but you’ll also find some great crafting products for kids on sale. They will be getting ahead of the game with some Christmas items, too.

You’ll find a similar sale at Michaels, but they’ve got something special for beaders next week, too. There will also be an opportunity to earn a free gift with purchase.

JC Penney will have extra savings for two days next week, plus an impressive sale on apparel to keep your family warm & toasty in the fast-approaching winter months.

Fashion Bug is having a big fall sale next week, and there’s a special offer for more savings in the future if you look at the ad closely.

CVS will be following the trend of blowing out Halloween items next week. There are tons of products on sale, tons with available coupons and tons of ExtraBucks available too. There’s also an opportunity to earn a free gift card with select purchases un-related to the holiday.

For two-days you can get extra savings at Sears, but all week you’ll find products for the whole family on sale in every department — no coupon necessary.

During Staples Dollar Days the retailer will have some great office basics at a low price. There will also be some coupons tucked inside the ad, so make sure you flip through.

Target has some special deals on Halloween merchandise for the family (and the pet) next week, plus some new opportunities to earn free gift cards with purchase. You’ll also find some good deals on everyday apparel and accessories.

Big Lots is cutting the price on their Halloween and fall-themed products next week, and there will be some good deals in the grocery department too.

Kroger will have some bargains in the meat departement beginning Sunday, and there’s a big new batch of 10/$10 deals coming your way.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your Sunday paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at both SmartSource and Redplum websites.

Show up in costume, get free stuff! Photo by CVS Pharmacy.

On Sunday (Oct. 23), CVS is having a Halloween party and customer event, and you’ve got a chance to earn some freebies by showing up.

Any child who shows up in costume will receive a free gift pack . The pack includes $5 in candy, toys, trick or treat safety items, $10 in coupons for additional Halloween products, and a free 5X7 photo, supported by an in-store costume photo shoot.

Sunday is a big day for CVS shopping, so get there early before they run out! Your kids will appreciate the treat, and you’ll appreciate the free coupons.

Pretzelmaker, the second largest soft pretzel concept in the United States, is celebrating its 20th anniversary today.

To mark the occassion, the company is offering anyone with an October birthday a free order of Birthday Bites – the company’s signature bite-sized salted pretzel snack.

To redeem your birthday treat, stop by the Roanoke or Lynchburg location and present a form of printed ID containing your name and birth date.

For a full list of participating locations, click here.

A few years ago, my favorite mascara was discontinued. While this sounds like a minor life problem, it was aggravating — and I know plenty of other women have had the same experience. You end up stockpiling the product whenever you can find it, and then squeezing every last drop out of it.

Recently I discovered the beauty of hunting down a discontinued product online. There are entire websites dedicated to discontinued products. The Vermont Country Store is a well-known catalog and website filled with discontinued toys, candies and other old-timey goods, and sites such as Amazon and eBay occasionally have discontinued gems available from private sellers. I was able to find my mascara in multiple places and stock up. OverstockCosmetics.com and BeautyEncounter.com are two reliable sites filled with hard-to-find and discontinued makeup products.

You also can find discontinued products in stores, and this can lead to serious savings. The stores are often trying to clear their shelves of these products to make way for the next big thing.

Buying discontinued isn’t for every product, though. There are pros and cons, and you should use common sense.

Here are a few common items you can find discontinued, and what you should be aware of:

* Grocery products. These can fall under a few categories: the manufacturer has decided not to make the product any longer, the label is changing, the recipe is changing or it’s a seasonal item.

As long as you keep track of the expiration date, this can be a great opportunity to stock up on nonperishables, such as canned goods, and other products with long shelf lives, such as condiments, for cheap. Grocery stores often keep all of their clearance and discontinued items in one place, and you can usually combine your coupons with the discounted price, increasing the savings.

* Electronics. Electronics are a little tricky. Buying a discontinued piece of equipment, such as a TV or computer, usually means you’re getting a great deal, but there are some risks. It may be difficult to find parts for repairs, and there may be a technical reason the product was discontinued. So always research the product before buying it.

However, if it’s just a case where a new model is coming out and you don’t care if your product is up-to-the-minute new, you’re probably getting a bargain.

* Beauty products. Beauty products are also tricky. While it’s easy to get addicted to certain products, you don’t want to buy something that’s been sitting around too long.

Search for the product as soon as you know it’s discontinued so you can stock up and store it in a cool, dry place. If you’re buying it from a website, you never know how it’s been stored. Makeup has a shelf life just like food, so you don’t want to invest in something that’s no good. Also, only buy products that are still in the original, factory-sealed packaging.

* Paper and plastic goods. These are the safest product to invest in. A company may be changing the design or packaging of the product, but the product itself should still be in great condition for years.

Companies such as Rubbermaid are always coming out with new styles and colors of their products and discontinuing the previous line, so finding these products on clearance in a store can lead to big savings on a brand-name product.

Do you have any tips for finding your favorite discontinued items or finding deals on other discontinued products? Share them!

Kodak and Best Buy both have great promotions this week, and you get freebies from both in the long run.

First, Kodak is celebrating Free Prints Week starting today (Oct. 17). “Like” their Facebook page, and you’ll gain access to a coupon good for 20 free 4×6 photo prints from your Facebook. Kodak is trying to get the word out about the ability to connect to your Facebook from a kiosk and print photos instantly — which really could be a time-saver for many of us. You can you this coupon anywhere that there’s a Kodak Photo Kiosk (CVS and Target, for example) between today and Sunday (Oct. 23).
To get the coupon, “Like” Kodak, then choose youre desired retailer for your coupon. You’ll then be taken to their Facebook page, where you should be able to sign up for the coupon under a “Special Offers” tab.

This $100 iTunes card will only cost you $85 right now at Best Buy.

Best Buy has a really great deal going on now for iTunes lovers. Head over to their website where you can buy iTunes gift cards for 15% off! You rarely see gift cards on sale, but it means that in the long run you’re getting some of your iTunes purchases for free! There’s no code necessary to get this deal, and you can get free shipping.
This is a great time to stock up on gifts. Your biggest savings will come if you purchase a $100 gift card, which you’ll only pay $85 for!

Even if you don’t have a Kindle, iPad or other e-Reader, you shouldn’t ignore eBooks. Many of them can be downloaded to your computer or printed off, and they can be a great way to check out some free material!

Here’s a new batch of free eBooks:

“Prevention Healthy Favorites: Chicken Recipes: 48 Easy and Delicious Meals!” is available for free right now on Amazon.  The book includes 48 recipes from the health magazine “Prevention.”

“Rapid Recipes for Writers . . . And Other Busy People” is a cookbook  compiled by the editor of a small magazine, Marsha Ward, who asked her regular writers to submit their favorite easy recipes. You can find it for free on Amazon, too.

Gluten free diets seem to be more and more common these days. Well, Amazon has a cookbook for that, too. “Gluten-Free, Hassle-Free: Planning and Cooking Simple Gluten-Free Meals” is currently available for free, and gives tips for living gluten-free in addition to the recipes.

Click here to check out Recipe Lion’s free eBook, “38 Best Soup Recipes and Hearty Stews Cookbook.” This book should come through as a PDF, so you even have the option of printing it if you choose.

Also, the Gooseberry Patch Thanksgiving cookbook I posted about the other day is still available.

Remember, online prices can change at any time, so grab up anything you’re interested while it’s still free! Make sure the price reads $0.00 before downloading.

We’re already in the middle of fall, sneaking up on Halloween. Can you believe it? Here are some of the best deals you could find in some papers this weekend.

There will be up to three coupon booklets you could see in Sunday’s paper — Redplum, SmartSource and P&G Brandsaver. Remember to check out their website too for additional coupons.

Kmart has a great deal on fleece for the whole family this week, and it starts at only $4.99. You’ll also find all Halloween costumes 40% off, Halloween apparel and hosiery 40 to 50% off, novelties buy 2, get 1 free, lighted pumpkins 25% off and Halloween and autumn porch greeters 30% off. Additionally, the usually higher-priced holiday textiles and decor will be 40% off.

Kroger is having a big produce sale this week, which includes tomatoes, carrots, avocados and apples for 99 cents a pound. There are also tons of new Cart Buster promotions, like Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts for $1.99/lb., Kroger buns and bread 10/$10, Lay’s chips 2/$5, Kraft and Sargento cheese 2/$5, Kroger 1% and skim milk for $1.69, select Pillsbury refrigerated breads 10/$10, Green Giant steam bags 3/$5 and more. You can also get 2 free boxes of Cheez-It crackers for free when you by any 3 Coca-Cola 12-packs of can.s

Belk is having a 4-day sale on apparel for the whole family, including 40 to 50% off misses, petites and today’s woman sportswear, 33% off misses, petites and today’s woman dresses, 50 to 60% off suit separates, sportcoats and slacks for men, and 40 to 50% off the entire stock of men’s pants by Saddlebred, Savane, Izod, Braggi, Haggar, Chaps and Louis Raphael. You’ll also find up to 60% off select handbags and jewelry, up to 40% off boots, 25 to 40% off Cuisinart kitchen electronics and Kim Rogers knit tops buy one, get one 50% off.
Don’t forget the coupons, which are two good for 20% off a single sale item storewide (15% off home and shoes) today through Wednesday.

Target has women’s sweaters for $15 this week, as well as select men’d and women’s hats, scarves and gloves for 15% off. You’ll also find infants’ and toddlers’ outwear for as low as $25, and boys’ and girls’ as low as $35, with infants’, toddlers’ and kids’ hats, scarves, mittens, gloves and boots for 20% off.

Sears is having a great sale on apparel for the whole family, but you need to visit a store associate to get the most out of your savings. Look closely, and you’ll see the ad says to “see a store associate to receive a savings pass” which will get you an extra 15 to 30% off of clothing, intimate, accessories, fine jewelry, home fashions, cookware and luggage purchases when you use a Sears card. A lot of times they have people offering these deals at the door or at the register, but be sure to ask if it isn’t openly offered.
Outside of that deal, you’ll find 40% off of sweaters for her, 30 to 40% off bras, panties and sleepwear, 40 to 50% off men’s suit separates, dress pants, and dress shirts and ties, and up to 70% off all fine jewelry.

Office Max’s Save-A-Thon means you’ll find great deals on products like copy paper (as low as 1 cent) and binders (2/$5). For two days only you’ll find shredders for $49.99, Texas Instruments TI-84 Graphing Calculators for $99.99 and desk chairs $49.99 to $69.99.
There are also up to two coupons available this week. One is on the insert which is good for 20% off an ink, toner or supply purchase in-store or online, and one on a flier good for 20% off regular, sale, promotion and/or clearance-priced items.

Walgreen’s has an in-store coupon on Coca-Cola products, Dasani water, Starbucks drinks, Campbell’s soups, Hefty zip bags and select 2-liter sodas. You’ll also find great deals on Halloween candies (remember to combine your manufacturer’s coupons with sale prices!), Halloween decorations for as low as $1.99 and fresh pumpkins 2/$7.

CVS has a great new opportunity to earn free gift cards to stores like Macy’s, Shell and Gap with a $30 purchase of products such as DayQuil/NyQuil, Pampers Jumbo packs, Puffs, Coke, Colgate and more. Between sale prices and coupons, you could really rack up on things, while also earning $10 back.
If you’re still shopping for Halloween candy, check out the deal on Hershey’s snack size or Nestle, Mars or Wrigley’s fun size candies 2/$4, plus an in-store coupon good for $1 off/2.

Toys R Us has all video games, accessories, game guides and T-shirts buy two, get the third free. You’ll also receive a free Batman figure for free with the purchase of the Xbox 360 game “Batman Arkham City.”
There are numerous other BOGO deals throughout the store, including buy two, get the third free on all Thomas Take-n-Play Engines.
There will also be some new opportunities to earn free high dollar gift cards. Some of those include: buy  one, get one 50% off Monster High Dolls, and buy one, get one 50% off all Crayola Wonder and Story Studio products. Power Rangers, WWE WrestleMania and Real Steel action figures are also buy one, get one 50% off.
For board game lovers, all Scrabble, Monopoly, Apples To Apples and Uno games are all buy one, get one 50% off.
You’ll receive gift cards with the purchase of a Sony PS3 and Xbox 360 systems ($20 card), Nintendo 3DS and Wii Mario Kart Bundle ($10 card), and an AT&T P7040P cell phone ($10 card).

Jo-Ann Fabric’s, Michaels and A.C. Moore have all had great sales on Halloween and fall decor the past few weeks, and this week is no different. If you’ve waited ’til the last minute, or have been waiting for the best sale, now’s the time.

Spend $50 or more during the Moonlight Madness sale at Jo-Ann Fabric and you’ll receive a Super Saver Card good for 30% off your total purchase (which includes sale items). This card can be redeemed Oct. 23 – 29.
Additionally at Jo-Ann’s, you’ll find home decor fabric 50% off, Papercrafting Supplies 50% off (even the items up to the regular price of $149.99), autumn and Halloween yard stakes 50% off, autumn wreaths 2/$24 (cheaper than it would be to buy all the supplies to make a wreath, in many cases), and boas, masks and packaged feathers buy one, get one 50% off. Fleece solids and prints are 50 to 60% off, hooded sweatshirts are 50% off, and strung beads are also 50% off. Most Autumn and Halloween costumes and decor are 50 to 60% off, and you’ll even find some Christmas decor already up to 30% off.
As for coupons, you’ll find one for 50% off a regular priced item (good through Thursday), one for 50% off a regular priced item (good Friday and Saturday) and one for 60% off a custom framing order. Remember, Joann takes competitor’s coupons, so combine your stops if they have everything you need!

At Michaels you’ll find 60% off most fall arrangements, containers, dried decor and floral stems, 50% off portrait and collage frames and Halloween decor and pumpkins, and 40% off the entire stock of scrapbook storage. T-shirts are 2/$5, poster frames are 40% off, the Christmas village collection is 30% off and select scrapbook paper pads and stickers are 40% off.
Fall and Halloween decor is 25 to 50% off, with fall entertaining and baking items starting at only $1.
You’ll find coupons good for 40% off a regular priced item and 55% off a custom framing order, as well as one tucked inside good for 20% off your entire purchase of regular priced Martha Stewart scrapbooking products.

A.C. Moore has all American Girl crafts buy one, get one free, the entire stock of fall and Halloween decor 50% off, T-shirts 4/$10, stock paper, wall and table frames and select jewelry items 40% off, and ready-to-decorate pine wreaths, swag and garlands for $2.99. You’ll also find other Christmas goods on sale for as low as $3.99, and Martha Stewart yarn for 30% off.
There’s only one coupon with the ad this week, good for 50% off any regular priced item.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your Sunday paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at both SmartSource and Redplum websites.

Jason Aldean is all the rage right now and recently passed through Roanoke. If you still can’t get enough, how about a free song download to tide you over? Click here to go to Aldean’s website, where you’ll find directions on how you can get a free copy of “Country Boy’s World” courtesy of I Heart Radio. This download will be available through Oct. 23.

If you’re headed to the mall this weekend, be sure to take this printable Macy’s coupon good for an extra 20% off all sale and clearance items (there are some exclusions). This coupon expires Sunday (Oct. 16).

McDonald’s and Wendy’s have had Halloween coupon booklets available already this year, and now Burger King Scholars is joining in the action. You can pick up these coupon books for $1, and inside you’ll get: 4 coupons for free value size fries, 1 coupon for a free small Soft drink or small Icee and 3 coupons for a free small soft serve cone. That’s definitely worth $1! You should be able to pick these up at most Burger King locations.

It’s been a while since we’ve seen any new Quiznos coupons. Here’s a printable coupon good for free chips or cookie and a fountain drink with the purchase of a regular or large sub. This coupon is good through Monday (Oct. 17).

Click here for a new batch of printable coupons from Barnes & Noble. The coupons available include: 30% off select new releases and 20% off Jonathan Adler bags. These coupons are good through Monday (Oct. 17).

Use this printable coupon at the Children’s Place now through Halloween and you’ll receive 20% off your entire purchase. You can also you the code E2F2011 for online purchases. The fine print doesn’t list any exclusions, so give it a try on clearance purchases too!

NY & Company is having a big sale through Sunday (Oct. 16), and you’ll get 40% off everything with this printable coupon. The coupon says it’s good on everything, but the fine print lists these exclusions: “As Seen in NY Collection, 30% Off, 40% Off, 50% Off and Buy One Get One Free store sales.” You could still find some good deals, though.

Visit the Old Navy Facebook page, and you can get a printable coupon good for $15 off a $75 purchase.

I haven’t gotten by the new Roanoke Kohl’s yet, but this might be the extra encouragement I needed. Click here for a printable coupon, or use the code FFOCT20 online, for an extra 20% off everything. This is a great coupon, because it’s good on regular, sale and clearance priced products!

These deals could change at any time, so print anything you’re interested in ASAP!

Also, check out my post from yesterday. Many of these deals are still going on today.

There will be up to three coupon booklets you could see in Sunday’s paper — Redplum, SmartSource and P&G Brandsaver. Remember to check out their website too for additional coupons.

Kmart will have some great deals on products to keep your family warm & toasty as the days are getting cooler. There are also some nice Halloween bargains.

Kroger will be having some great prices on fresh produce next week, as well as some special Cart Buster deals throughout the store.

Belk will be having a 4-day sale starting Sunday, and there will be sales on apparel for the whole weekend, plus additional savings with the available coupons.

Target will be ready to dress you for winter weather come Sunday, and much of their outwear will be on sale. There will also be some deals available on autumn and Halloween decor and accessories.

Sears will be having a store-wide sale starting Sunday, but make sure you read your ad closely to find out how you can score additional savings on select items.

Office Max’s Save-A-Thon means you’ll find great deals on office supplies and electronics, but be sure to flip through your ads and inserts carefully — there are up to two coupons available.

There are tons of in-store coupons and register rewards available at Walgreen’s next week. Combine those with any manufacturer’s coupon you have for the best deals on Halloween goodies and products in the pharmacy and beauty sections.

As usual CVS has numerous opportunities to earn ExtraBucks next week, but one deal is especially good. You’ll also have the chance to earn a free gift card with select purchases.

Toys R Us is on a roll with the BOGO sales, and next week will be no different. There will also be some new opportunities to earn free high dollar gift cards.

If you’ve paid full price for anything Halloween related at Joann Fabric’s, Michaels or A.C. Moore, you might be a little crazy. These three stores are continuing the sales on autumn and Halloween items into next week, and as usual there are tons of new coupons. Remember, Joann takes competitor’s coupons, so combine your stops if they have everything you need!

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your Sunday paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at both SmartSource and Redplum websites.

Want to help out farmers? Come to Chipotle dressed like one on Halloween and you can get a $2 meal, with proceeds benefitting two non-profit farming charities.

[UPDATE: Here are a few more deals that have popped up this afternoon:

Click here to visit OnSale.com, another daily deal site. Through Monday (Oct. 17), new customers can pick-up a $10 Papa John's gift card for only $6.99 (30% off). If you're interested I suggest scooping up the deal now! They may run out before the deal expires.

Also, here's another Try Me Free Rebate for you. "Like" La Creme's Facebook page and you'll gain access to the rebate form. See below for more details on these rebate offers. END UPDATE]

Mark your calendars, because on Halloween (Oct. 31) Chipotle will be offering burritos, bowls, salads or an order of tacos for only $2 when you come in dressed in any farm-inspired costume after 6 p.m. The Boorito event will donate the proceeds to The Chipotle Cultivate Foundation and Farm Aid, so dress up as your favorite “farmer, crop, animal, or farm implement” if you want to participate!

Now through Saturday (Oct. 15) you can get a free Walgreen’s photo calendar with the purchase of a second photo calendar. Create the calendar with your photos in Walgreen’s Photo Center. These would make great Christmas gifts, just enter the code 2CALS at checkout to get the deal. Select in-store pick-up and you can even avoid shipping costs!

Also through Saturday (Oct. 15), you can get an additional 20% off any online purchases at Kohl’s. This discount can be used on clearance items, so you have the chance to get some great bargains. Shipping is either 99 cents per item, or free on orders over $75. Use the code OCTFF20 at checkout to receive the discount.
If you’d prefer to shop in-store, print out this coupon good for 15% off everything! This coupon is good Friday through Sunday (Oct. 14-16).

Try Me Free rebates are some of my favorite ways to save. Currently there are offers available for Renuzit Holiday Scents, Carmex Moisture Plus chapstick, Lysol Dual Action Wipes and probably even more products I haven’t come across yet. Companies usually release these rebates to encourage shoppers to try their new products. Just buy the products, fill out the rebate form and then mail it in with your receipt (I like to have a separate receipt just for the product I’m getting a rebate for). Soon after you’ll receive a check in the mail, and you’ve gotten to try a full-size product for free!

The P&G Brand Sampler is one of my favorite freebies. This time, you can receive a sample of Crest 3D White Toothpaste, a sample for Herbal Essence Hello Hydration Shampoo, and some high dollar coupons for popular products (like Always, Clairol, Tampax, Bounty Paper Towels and more). Sign up for yours quick before they’re all gone!

Also, remember to take advantage of the Davidsons Trade-In event to benefit the Roanoke Rescue Mission. It ends Oct. 29.

Now through Saturday, October 29 Davidsons Clothing for Men is having an awesome event.

Bring in any suit, sport jacket, blazer, topcoat, outerwear or leather to trade-in and you’ll save 20% on any new suit, sport jacket, blazer, topcoat, outerwear or leather. Custom orders do not apply.

You can trade-in as many items as you like, so you could really rack-up the savings and do some good here!

Trade-in items will be donated to the Roanoke Rescue Mission, so Davidsons does ask that they be clean.

Both stores are participating, and are located at:

412 South Jefferson Street, Roanoke (343-3734)

and

4235 Electric Road, Suite 103 (774-1644)

This is a great opportunity to put those items that have gotten lost in your closet to use. Plus, you can feel good about supporting both the Roanoke Rescue Mission and a local business — it’s a win-win situation!

One of my first shopping memories is going to Hills Department Store in Roanoke and shopping for clothes at the end of every season — bathing suits, shorts and T-shirts at the end of summer and winter coats, jeans and sweaters at the end of winter.

My mother would dig through the clearance clothes, picking out a variety of pieces a couple of sizes too big, and place them on layaway. By the time I needed those clothes, they fit perfectly and we had paid a fraction of their original prices.

 Since those days, I haven’t considered using layaway again, and the option had fallen by the wayside. With the recent economic condition, though, many stores are revitalizing their layaway programs.

 For example, Walmart stores will be offering a Christmas layaway program for toys and electronics beginning Oct. 17. The program will run through Dec. 16, allowing families to pay off gifts before the holidays. To participate, customers must be placing at least $50 of merchandise on layaway, and each product must be at least $15 or more.

Though this is just one store offering the service, it provides a good example of the notable aspects of layaway. There is a $5 service fee when items are placed on layaway, and the customer must make a 10 percent down payment on the total purchase. Additionally, there will be a $10 fee for any canceled orders or those that are not picked up by Dec. 16.

Each store has a variation on these fees, but these numbers are on par with Walmart’s competitors. The service and cancellation fees are what shoppers should really look out for.

If the fees make up more than 10 percent of the value of the items, consumers might reconsider if the deal is worth it — these fees (excluding the down payment) are not put toward the total payment.

But layaway can be a great alternative to purchasing on credit. The service can help shoppers stick to a monthly budget, but still afford occasional luxury and high-dollar purchases. It also allows consumers to make purchases during the costly holiday season without threatening their credit limit.

It’s still important to have a budget when using layaway. Payments can quickly add up if too much is placed on layaway, possibly causing shoppers to spend even more on cancellation fees.

Some local stores that also offer layaway include Burlington Coat Factory, Kmart, Sears, Toys R Us, Hallmark, Marshalls and T.J. Maxx. Some Best Buy locations also offer layaway, but none in the Roanoke Valley.

Pros and cons of layaway

Pros

* Layaway allows you to pay off purchases gradually without putting your credit in danger.

* Many stores allow customers to place sale and clearance items on layaway.

*You can reserve high-demand and high-dollar items you couldn’t normally afford all at once.

* If you carry a balance on your credit card, layaway is often cheaper than the interest you would pay on a high credit card bill.

Cons

* Placing items on layaway means you can’t take advantage of future price drops or sales.

* The fees can add up quickly if you miss a payment or have to cancel your order.

* Most stores require a minimum purchase and down payment be made on layaway items, which can still be a high out-of-pocket amount.

* Layaway encourages shoppers to spend more than they have available at that time, so you must have a strict budget planned. so you don’t overspend

Have you used layaway successfully, or will you be trying it this holiday season?

Amazon has had some great specials on their digital Gooseberry Patch cookbooks lately, and here’s another one just in time for the holiday season.

Head over to Amazon now and you can get the Thanksgiving Cookbook download for free (a $4.95 value).

Even though this is a Kindle dowload, it is compatible with your PC, smartphone, Mac and anything else that can download the Kindle App, which is also free.

Just remember that the price on Amazon can change at any time, so make sure it reads $0.00 before you click the “Buy Now” button.

Kids love Chuck E. Cheese, but a trip to the restaurant and play center can be pricey. Click here to print a “Trick or Tokens” coloring sheet, which can be traded in at a Chuck E. Cheese locations for 10 free tokens.

Also, iTunes has partnered with the Austin City Limits Music Festival and is offering a free 15-song music sampler when you “like” the iTunes Facebook page. The sample features music from festival performers, and is a great opportunity to check out some new music.

If you’ve never thought much about Columbus Day in the past, you might gain some new appreciation this year. It’s one of those holidays you just don’t hear much about, but retailers love to have sales when it comes around!

Here are some of the best deals you’ll find over the holiday:

SmartSource and Redplum both have coupon booklets today in most papers with a variety of restaurant, grocery and drug store coupons.
SmartSource has coupons for Olive Garden, Purina, Glade, OreIda, Blimpie, Mucinex, Dr. Pepper (this is for a free 2-liter!), Campbell’s, John Frieda and more.
Redplum has coupons for Logan’s Roadhouse, Minute Rice and Mrs. Dash, Milk-Bone, Mars Chocolate and more.

You’ll also find an insert with a few Smokey Bones coupons.

Belk, Macy’s, Kohl’s, JC Penney and Sears are all having sales in honor of the holiday, and it looks like you can find some early deals on fall apparel.

Today and Monday Belk has its entire stock of misses, petites and today’s woman dresses for 30% off, and sportswear for misses and women 30 to 50% off. The entire stock of kids’ sports wear is 30 to 40% off, while men’s sportswear is 40 to 50% off Men’s pants, suit separates, shirts and ties are all also at least 40% off.
Additionally, if you make a donation of at least $1 to Susan G. Komen you’ll receive three coupons good for 20% off storewide.

Macy’s is also having a 2-day sale with 25 to 75% off storewide. In addition to the sale, remember to use your WOW pass from the ad for an extra 10 to 15% off sale and clearance merchandise.
Some of the best deals include women’s suits on clearance for $59.99 (originally $200 to $320), men’s flannel sportshirts for $16.99, 40% off winter coats and the extra 30% off you can get when you purchase 3 or more pairs of shoes.
Spend $50 or more on men’s pants, which are 40% off, and you’ll also get a $10 off savings coupon.

Kohl’s is having a home sale with the entire stock of bedding 30 to 50% off,  Trim-A-Tree products 40% off, Halloween and fall decor 50% off, wall frames and collages 50% off and decorative pillows 50 to 60% off.
The rest of the catalog is full of Bonus Buys that will earn you an extra percentage off today through Wednesday.

JC Penney has outerwear for the entire family 50% off, other cold weather accessories 30 to 50% off, boys’ and girls’ Arizona tops for $9.99, kids’ Okie Dokie match-ups for $5.99, misses’ and juniors’ dresses for 40 to 50% off and a wide selection of bras for 40% off.
Be sure to check the clearance out, too. Final clearance is 80% off, and new markdowns are 50 to 70% off.

Sears has a savings pass good for an extra 15% or 20 % off (with Sears card, 10%  or 15% off with other form of payment) of home fashions, luggage, household goods, apparel, intimate apparel and accessories today through Tuesday.
Some of the products that apply to the pass include Bali bras and panties (already 40% off), womens’ sweaters (already 40% off), Colormate bath towels, kitchen electronics, pillows and sheets.

Staples will be having a huge sale on electronics, which include $200 off select computers, $50 off a Staples brand or Omnitech shredder and a $50 gift card with the purcahse of a camera or camcorder at $149 or more.
You can also get free delivery on all staples.com orders this week — no mention of a minimum purchase.
Ink cartridges are pricey, but if you switch to HP cartridges Staples will give you $10 back in Staples Rewards each time you recycle a cartridge.

Beginning Wednesday, Kroger will be offering special daily deal offers online through Oct. 25.
In-store there are tons of BOGO items, like Thomas English Muffins or Bagels buy one, get one free, Schick disposable razors buy one, get one free, and Nature’s Bounty or Flex-a-min vitamins buy one, get one free.
Halloween costumes, make-ups, masks, wigs and accessories are 25% off, Halloween decor for 25% off, Reese’s peanut butter pumpkins are buy two, get one free, Reese’s, Kit Kat and Hershey’s bar candy is 10/$10, Mars and Nestle candy is 10/$10 and various other candies are on sale — so stock up for Halloween!

Michaels, AC Moore and Joann Fabric are all continuing their run of great weekly sales.

Michaels has almost all of their fall and Halloween-themed decor 40 to 50% off. Halloween crafts and toys start at $1, and Martha Stewart Halloween crafts are 40% off.
The entire stock of photo albums and scrapbooks is 40% off, as well as strung beads, artists pads and canvases, and Ashland Christmas stems and bushes.
Of course there are some coupons, and don’t miss the one tucked inside good for 40% off your entire purchase of artist’s paints, pencils, pastels and markers. On the cover you’ll find coupons good for 50% off a custom frame order, 50% off a regular priced item (2 days only) and 40 % off a regular priced item (not good until Tuesday).

AC Moore has numerous 2-day doorbusters. They include mum pots for $2.99, 55% off the entire stock of wall and collage frames and Thomas & Friends wooden railway toys, floss 5/$1, craft paint and stickers 3/$1, canvase for 55% off and yarn for $1.99.
Throughout the week you’ll find the entire stock of fall and Halloween decor 50% off, white T-shirts for $2, photo boxes 4/$10, collage frames for $9.97, strung beads and bead tubes 50% off, fine arts supplies 40% off, and even a sneak preview of some Christmas decor on sale.
Remember to clip the coupons available: 50% off a regular priced item (today and tomorrow only) and 40% off a regular priced item (Tuesday through Saturday).

Joann Fabric, who accepts the competitors’ coupons, has plastic storage containers and home decor fabrics for 50% off, Halloween fabrics 60% off, quilting books 30% off, autumn wreaths 2/$30 and basic stems buy two, get one free.
The entire stock of fall and Halloween apparel and decor is also on sale, including Wilton baking supplies, floral arrangements and costume fabrics.
Red tag home decor, apparel and quilting fabric will also be an additional 50% off.
Don’t forget the coupons: 50% off a regular priced item (today and Monday only), 40% off a regular priced item (today through Saturday), and 50% off a custom framing order.

The CVS ad features over $100 in ExtraBucks, so see what sales you can combine with coupons to really save. 
If you are in need of cosmetics, be sure to stop by the CVS kiosk in the store and scan your card. Once you scan your card a coupon good for $3 off of a $10 cosmetics purchase will print. Be sure to sign up for the BeautyClub too if you haven’t, then your purchases will count toward your $5 ExtraBucks reward.
Use your coupons for candy and stock up for Halloween. Mars and Wrigley’s candy is on sale, and if you spend $10 you’ll get $3 in ExtraBucks.

Target has bargains on everything Halloween — from candy, to costumes, to decorations.
There are also some opportunities to earn some high dollar gift cards: $75 when you purchase an Xbox Kinect bundle, $20 when you purchase a Wii bundle, $30 when you purchase a Kindle and $20 when you purcahse a Bissell Steam & Sweep.

Walgreens has numerous coupons for the coupon center this week, like $5 off photo books, 99 cent folded cards, 25% off posters and banners, 75 prints for $9.99 and 33% off collage prints and enlargements.
You can get some nice register rewards for buying over the counter cold/flu/allergy relief. You’ll receive $4 with the purchase of 42 count Zegerid OTC Acid Reducer, $5 with the purchase of 42 count Prilosec OTC Acid Reducer, $4 with the purchase of Blink Tears, Complete or Revitalens contact solutions and $3 with the purchase of Ecotrin aspirin, Citrucel or Os-Cal calcium.

Toys R Us is offering freebies with purchase throughout the store this week. Some of these include a free LEGO Retro mini-figure witht he prucahse of any LEGO contruction set or game of $20 or more, mix-and-match Fisher-Price products for a buy two, get one free deal, a free Halloween lighted safety bucket with the purchase of any costume and free Crayola Color Wonder Light Up Markers with any Crayola purchase of $15 or more.

Kmart has outerwear and cold-weather for the family 40% off this week, and regularly price footwear is buy one, get one 50% off. You can also find men’s, women’s and kids’ jeans by Riders, Chic, Wrangler and Rustler for as low as $9.99.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your Sunday paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at both SmartSource and Redplum websites.

Columbus Day is annually the 2nd Monday in October, and while there may not be any huge celebrations it’s a great excuse for a sale!

Here’s a hint at what most of you will find in your paper box Sunday:

SmartSource and Redplum will have coupon booklets with a variety of restaurant, grocery and drug store coupons.

Retailers Belk, Macy’s, Kohl’s, JC Penney and Sears are all celebrating the holiday with big in-store sales, where you’ll find savings up to 50% plus a few coupons.

Staples will be having a huge sale on electronics, as well as a special promotion for Staples.com. There’s also a reminder about how to save big bucks on ink cartridges.

Beginning Wednesday, Kroger will have a special promotion online for extra savings. In-store next week you’ll find lots of BOGO items, plus great deals on Halloween goodies.

Michaels, AC Moore and Joann Fabric are all continuing their run of great weekly sales. Tons of merchandise will be at least 50% off next week, and there are multiple coupons coming your way too.

The CVS ad features over $100 in ExtraBucks next week, so you’ll have a chance to do some major saving! There’s also a special deal for anyone purchasing cosmetics, and some attractive offers on Halloween supplies.

Target will have some bargains on Halloween gear, too, as well as new opportunities to earn gift cards with purchase.

Walgreens will have a nice batch of coupons for their photo center, and some high dollar register rewards available with the purchase of select cold/flu/allergy relief products.

Toys R Us is continuing it’s run of BOGO deals into next week. You find free items with purchase throughout the store.

Kmart will have some great deals on winter apparel for the family into next week, with some products as low as $9.99.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your Sunday paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at both SmartSource and Redplum websites.

Have a great weekend!

HalloweenCostumes.com has costumes for everyone in the family -- even the dog!

If you read my column Wednesday, you’ll remember that I said to look out for daily deals for costume stores and websites.

Well, one just came through today that might interest some of you.

Eversave has a deal today that will get you $20 worth of costumes and accessories for $10 at HalloweenCostumes.com. This deal will be live for 2 more days, but you never know when it could sell out — so grab it up if you’re interested!

Also, you can buy up to 3 “saves” (what Eversave calls their deals), so this is an especially good bargain for parents that have multiple kids to outfit.

This website looks like it has some pretty nice costumes, but they’re not all outrageously expensive. Plus, there’s a flat rate shipping fee of only $4.99.

Looking for a new twist on carving pumpkins? Check out Disney's FamilyFun.com for tons of free and cheap ideas.

Between buying costumes, bags of candy, pumpkins and decorations, the costs associated with Halloween can add up quick. Here are some money-saving ideas to help you celebrate this year:

* Check consignment stores, thrift stores and online retailers for costumes. Generally kids only get one year’s use out of a costume, so even if you buy a used one it can be practically new.

Websites like eBay are a great place to look for costumes, and fall brings about tons of local consignment sales. The LFA Kids Consignment Event is happening in the CMT Building on Brandon Avenue in Roanoke through Sunday.

 * I’m admittedly not the best at carving pumpkins, so paper stencils are a lifesaver. Stores often stock stencil kits, which are handy if you need carving tools. However, if you have kept your tools from previous kits, consider printing your own stencils. Many websites have simple designs you can print for free.
Click here for free Pumpkin Masters stencils.
Click here for pumpkin carving ideas and stencils by Disney’s FamilyFun.com.

* IHOP has a tasty way to celebrate Halloween. Throughout the month of October you can find pumpkin pancakes, All-You-Can-Eat Buttermilk pancakes and Scary Face Pancakes on the menu (starting at $4.99).

Then, on Oct. 28 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., there will be a day-long celebration Scary Face Pancake give-away for trick-or-treaters 12 and under. Kids will receive one free Count Spatula Scary Face Pancake — an oversized buttermilk pancake with a whipped topping mouth and strawberry nose served with two mini Oreo cookies and candy corn on the side (allowing kids to create their own Halloween hotcake), during the give-away.

 * If you like a little spooky background noise at your Halloween party or for visiting trick-or-treaters, check out the mp3 downloads on Amazon. They have numerous Halloween mixes in the $5 to $9 range, and even a few free downloads (just remember that Amazon’s pricing can change at any time).

* Holiday-themed crafts are always a hit with kids. Print out some free Halloween coloring and activity pages throughout the month, or check out websites like Disney’s FamilyFun.com to get ideas for simple and cheap Halloween crafts. My favorite crafts on the website are the super simple “bat-o’-lanterns.”
Click here for printable activity and coloring pages by Homeschool Creations.
Click here for an easy and cheap Toilet Paper Pumpkin craft.
Click here for the free eBook “11 Easy Halloween Craft Ideas: Halloween Decorations to Make for Your Home.”

* Both McDonald’s and Wendy’s have Halloween coupon books available for only $1. Inside you’ll find coupons for all kinds of free goodies — hamburgers, apple slices, ice cream and juice or milk at McDonald’s and five free Frostys at Wendy’s.

 * Keep any eye out for online daily deals for Halloween stores and websites (next year, start watching for these beginning in mid-September).

Totsy (a daily deal site for children’s products) and Plum District (a daily deal site dedicated to mothers) have both had recent deals on costumes. These deals usually save you at least 50 percent off of the retail price.

* Saturday is National Costume Swap Day, and there’s a related event here in the Roanoke Valley.

Bring your gently used costumes to the LFA Consignment Sale mentioned above today or Thursday, and you’ll receive a swap ticket. Then, on Saturday visit the sale again from 9 to 11 a.m. and you can pick out your free costume. You must have a swap ticket to attend this portion of the sale.

 Do you have any other tips for saving money on Halloween? Share them!

I hope everyone had a great weekend. Now, not only is it Monday, but it’s the beginning of October. That means all of the printable online coupons have been re-set.

Be sure to check SmartSource, Redplum and Coupons.com to grab up the best coupons before their printing limit has been reached! Remember, you can use your “back” button in your browser and print each coupon twice.

On a related note, extreme couponing is all the rage right now. While most people disagree with couponers clearing the shelves and having stock-piles that could support a small country, there are definitely benefits to couponing in moderation. If you’re interested in learning a little more about the topic, check out the free eBook “Extreme Couponing 101.”

This book has some great general tips for beginners and experienced couponers alike.

The description includes:
In this Free Couponing 101 Ebook, You’ll Learn:

• From Coupon Clueless to Coupon Expert
• Understanding Store Sales and the Power of Stockpiling
• All About Coupons
• Coupon Organization
• Getting Started with Strategic Couponing
• Advanced Couponing Strategies
• Couponing at the Grocery Store
• Couponing at the Drugstores

Check it out!

Pepsico Moments to Save (a new insert by filled with Pepsico products), Everyday Saver, SmartSource, P&G Brandsaver and Redplum all make appearances today. You’ll also find an insert with an O’Charley’s coupon, too.

Kroger begins a big sale in the meat department today. For the next week , you’ll find great deals on meat products like Oscar Mayer Lunchables (7/$7), Ball Park Franks ($1.97), boneless pork loins ($1.97/lb.), Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts ($1.97/lb.) and much more.
You can also rack up the fuel points this week. Earn double points on items such as Land O Lakes butter, Coca Cola and Pepsi soft drinks, Hot Pockets, Cheetos and Fritos, Kroger vegetables and more. You can also continue to earn 4 times the fuel points when you buy select gift cards.

Anyone shopping for appliances and electronics needs to check out  HH Gregg. Tons of items are on sale, and then there are coupons available for various levels spent — up to an additional $300 off.

The Office Max Save-A-Thon continues into this week, and the best deal I saw was the $10 discount you’ll receive when purchasing 2 iTunes $25 gift cards. That’s $10 in free music!

Toys R Us  has many LEGO construction sets and games 30% off, and free Fisher Price toys with select purchases this week. If you’re really stocking up for the holidays, use the $10 coupon on the cover off of any purchase $75 or more.

Belk is having a home sale this week, and you’ll get bonus buys today through Tuesday. These special buys include towels for only $6.99, an extra 10% off all Presto electronics, 60% off cutlery sets, comforter sets for $49.99 to $69.99, 60% off the entire stock of leisure luggage and 50% off the entire stock of Home Accents Christmas decor and ornaments (is it already that time??). Throughout the rest of the week you’ll find 25% off the entire stock of luxury bedding, 25 to 50% off  the entire stock of towels, 30 to 50% off the entire stock of pillows, 50% off the entire stock of luggage and 25 to 40% off small kitchen appliances.
Don’t forget the coupon on the cover good for an extra 15% off your entire purchase of regular and sale home purchases (through Tuesday only).

Kmart has a lot of items in the grocery and pharmacy departments 10/$10 this week, including Snack Packs, Hunt’s pasta sauce, SunnyD, Gatorade, Softsoap, Colgate tootpaste, and Butterball turkey bacon. Halloween costumes are 30% off, plus clearance toys are up to an additional 50% off. Spend $25 on Barbie products and you’ll get a free Barbie doll ($15.99 value).

Petsmart doesn’t want to leave the pets out of any Halloween festivities. Dog and cat costumes are up to 30% off, Halloween treats and rawhides are $1.99, and Halloween dog toys are $3.99 to $4.99. Throughout the store you’ll find cat beds, litter boxes, and furniture 20% off, Milk-Bone, Purina, Beggin’ Strips and Busy Bone dog treats 3/$9.99 and pet food up to 20% off.

Hamrick’s is having a “sportwear spectacular,” and with that you’ll find women’s and men’s sportswhere for up to 20% off. Additionally, there’s a coupon available for 15% off any one regular, sale OR clearance item. Throughout the store, you’ll also find ladies’ sleepwear, handbags, jewelry and men’s Chaps sports wear 20% off.

Walgreens and CVS both have a lot of opportunities to rack up on register rewards this week. Combine that offer with any manufacturer coupons you have and there are some great deals.
CVS has Puffs tissues for 99 cents, NyQuil and DayQuil products 2/$8, Halloween costumes 25% off, most Halloween candy is on sale (plus you can earn $5 in ExtraBucks for spending $12 on select brands), and tons of pharmacy items buy 1, get 1 50% off.
Walgreens has novelty Halloween candy for 39 cents, a coupon offering 25 free photo prints with the purchase of 25, 25% off all Halloween costumes , and $4 in register rewards for buying Venus Embrace or Gillette Fusion Proglide razors.

Joann Fabric, A.C. Moore and Michael’s are all continuing to push their Halloween and fall-themed products this week.
At Michaels most Halloween merchandise is at least 40% off, and most fall decor is 40 to 50% off. Additionally, there’s a coupon for 40% off a regular priced item.
At A.C. Moore the entire stock of Halloween and fall decor is 50% off, and the entire stock of wicker is 40% off. If you can find something in the store that isn’t on sale, remember to clip the coupon good for 50% off a regular priced item.
Joann Fabric has Halloween Inspirations indoor decor and entertaining goods, carvable pumpkins and carving accessories, Foodcrafting supplies and Halloween yard stakes all 50% off. Additionally, autumn-themed florals are 50% off, and Wilton Halloween Foodcrafting supplies are 30% off.  Starting Friday (Oct. 7) all red tag apparel, quilting and home decor fabrics will be 50% off, and there’s a second coupon good for 50% off a regular priced item for Friday and Saturday only (there’s also one that’s good all week).

Roanokers, the Kohl’s ad is here! To celebrate the grand opening, everything in the store is an extra 15, 20 0r 30% off. Also, for every $50 you spend you’ll get $10 in Kohl’s cash. Go check out the new location!

Check out the Target ad and you’ll see you can earn gift cards with the purchase of some popular items.
*A $5 card with the purchase of two Gain, Downy or Tide laundry products, Charmin toilet paper, Bounty paper towels or Iams dog food
*A $5 card with the purchase of any 3 Kotex products
*A $5 card with the purchase of any 2 Huggies or Pampers big packs
*A $15 card with the purchase of a Crock-Pot Triple Dipper
*A $20 card with the purchase of a Eureka AirSpeed vacuum, Shark Professional Steam Pocket mop or Shark Navigator
*A $50 card with the purchase of an Oreck XL vacuum
*A $20 card with the purchase of a Nintendo SDi XL
*A $10 card with the purchase of Tetrix for Nintendo3DS and Dark Souls, NBA 2K12 or Rage for Xbox and PS3
*A $5 card with the purchase of Scotty McCreery’s new CD
Also, SmartWater and VitaminWater are on sale for $1 each, and when you buy 4 you’ll get 1 free.