I just finshed watching Extreme Couponing on TLC. I watch very little television, but this show caught my attention when my friend Andrea linked to it on Facebook.
The show profiled four extreme couponers and their quest to spend almost nothing at the grocery store. Each couponer had stockpiles that took up entire rooms, garages, or more, and spent several hours a day finding, cutting, sorting and matching coupons.
I understand that television makes its money by sensationalizing stories, but even if you leave out all the dumpster diving and 1,000’s of sticks of deodorant Extreme Couponing bothered me.
Couponer #1.
- Spends 70 hours a week couponing.
- Admittedly sacrifices time with husband and cancels plans in order to shop.
- Her stockpile carries its own insurance policy. (Seriously, I could not make this stuff up!)
- She has a wall of toilet paper which equals 3,000 rolls. That’s enough to last about 40 years.
- She claims using coupons brings feelings of absolute joy.
- Her stockpile currently occupies 2 rooms, and is quickly taking over a 3rd room.
- Spends about $70 a week purchasing coupons from an online clipping service.
- Takes a day off work in order to shop.
- Along with numerous other items brings home 150 bars of candy for free.
- Spends 3 hours shopping, fills 9 carts.
- $1175 total before coupons
- $51 total after coupons
- Spends 2 hours checking out, then the register crashes. It takes another hour to finish the order.
- Spends 6 hours in the store total.
- Needs 2 cars to transport groceries home.
This woman saved over $1000 buying things that she will not live long enough to use. Just because you can get 150 candy bars for free, doesn’t mean you should. Her extreme couponing is destroying her marriage. Her husband was visibly upset about the growing stockpile and the trip to the store. While the food might not be costing her much, her extreme couponing habit will probably cost her a marriage.
I think because people are saving money and getting things they need (I use that term loosely) they feel like this obsessive behavior is okay. If someone had three rooms dedicated to knick knacks, felt joy when they found them for free, spent 70 hours a week organizing and dusting them, and their collection was causing stress in their marriage people would call them a hoarder. I think you can hoard food, just like anything else.
Couponer #2
This couponer seemed slightly more reasonable. She started couponing when her husband lost his job and it kind of took off from there. Her stockpile that takes up her entire garage for a family of four. On her shopping trip she purchased 40 boxes of pasta. I found this to be interesting because in the same segment she talked about the cycle of sales. Everything goes on sale about every three months, so purchase a three month supply when you can get it at a discount or free. I have a family of 9 and we would be eating a lot of pasta if 40 boxes only needed to last 3 months. If you were truly stockpiling for 3 months you wouldn’t need 40 boxes.
One thing that slightly irritated me about couponer #2 was that she told her husband which cereal he could eat based on expiration dates in her stockpile. Seriously? He is an adult, and while it is important to rotate the stockpile she had at least 40 boxes of cereal, if he wants another kind he should be able to eat it.
Couponer #3
My personal favorite. She was retired and appeared to be single so it didn’t seem like there were any relationship issues caused by her extreme couponing. I liked the fact that she took friends to the store to show them how to save money. While she did buy a lot of stuff for one person, I think she said she donated some, and she only bought what she was going to use, at least that is what she said.
Couponer #4
This guy is a popular coupon blogger. His stockpile was crazy. He had over 1500 sticks of deodorant and enough body wash to clean every elephant in the world. On his shopping trip he spent around $200 for $5,000 worth of stuff. He did buy 1,000 boxes of cereal, which he donated to a local food bank, which seemed to be a bright spot in this crazy show.
I think there is a lot to be learned from these extreme couponers.
Take what you need, leave the rest for someone else.
I am a big believer in stockpiling, I even published an article on how to stockpile effectively. There are 150 pounds of grain and oats in my laundry room, because it is cheaper to buy in bulk and will last us several months. I do not think having 40 years worth of toilet paper is being a good steward of your time or your money.
Most extreme couponers pay for their coupons (at least the clipping service), pay for a newspaper, pay for gas, and their time to shop. I do not believe toilet paper or many of those items will last 5, 10, or 40 years in the garage. These items will go bad and be worthless. Clearing the store shelves so you can hoard things in your garage is bad coupon etiquette.
Just because something is free doesn’t mean it is a good deal.
I often find sales and coupons that equal free, but it is junk I would not want to feed my family. The first lady got 150 candy bars!!! Unless she is passing them out at Halloween, that isn’t a good deal!
Your time is valuable.
For many extreme couponers, couponing is a full time job. I spend between $600 and $700 in food every month. I spend about 30 minutes a week finding sales and coupons, and I save about $30 a week. 30 minutes for $30 is a good deal, because we are going to use what I purchased. Even though these couponers are saving a lot of money, they are spending a lot of time.
Make sure the value of your time = your savings.
Show me a menu plan!
These people saved big money, but I didn’t see a whole lot of fruit, vegetables or meat in their cart. The majority extreme couponers purchased processed foods, soda, cereal, and toiletries. I’m not against buying any of those items, but they aren’t going to sustain you.
I would love to see what these people eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner!
It’s not about what you save, it’s about what you spend.
It is great to save $1,000’s on groceries, but what are you actually spending each month to feed your family? Extreme couponing simply isn’t reality couponing.
Bottom Line: What is the real cost?
Does it really matter what these people do with coupons? Maybe not, but I think it is a good reminder to us all. I honestly believe it is fun to save money and live frugally, and these couponers do too. However, the difference is that some of these extreme couponers are saving at the expense of their relationships and the savings of others.
When they clear the shelves of all the good deals, there is nothing left for the rest of us.
One couponer said she wanted her stockpile to be her legacy. No thanks, not me. I want to be remembered as someone who lived with the priorities of faith, family and friends.
I am the wife who makes their husband’s favorite meal, even if it costs a little more.
The cool mom who was never too old or scared to ride a roller coaster with her kids. I want to be the friend who is never too busy to chat on the phone, or meet for coffee.
When I die, I want there to be nothing left to give…. because I gave it all away when I lived.
Alissabeth says
I love your last paragraph! It’s not about all the STUFF, it’s about being a good steward of the time and money that God has entrusted us with!
Kelly Hancock says
Bravo! Very well said Toni. My thoughts exactly, I have nothing to add! 🙂
Jenny says
Great post! I’ve never seen this show, but would probably agree with you on a whole lot of these points. Especially your point about what these people are actually eating! We try to eat as healthfully as possible and the majority of coupons don’t apply to the types of foods that we eat. Sure, i spend a lot on groceries, but I feel good about what I feed my family and that is worth more to me.
Lis says
Wouldn’t have been interested in watching the show, but I LOVE the points you made in this post! I love to conserve money when possible, but I would never dedicate a large portion of my life to it!
Lynda says
The first lady is not just a saving money w/ coupons ~ she is a hoarder! How sad that she spends 70 hours a week couponing. I can’t imagine! Obviously she is trying to fill a void and has some problems she has buried in her mountains of products.
Shannon says
Wonderful post! Couponing is great, but not when it takes over your life. Makes me think that these people have a hoarding tendency when it comes to building their stockpiles!
Sonshine says
AMEN! AMEN! AMEN! Well said post! 🙂 My thoughts exactly!
thanks for sharing! 🙂
Andrea @ Savings Lifestyle says
You did an awesome recap, T. Great points too. I think the menu plan is the biggest thing. My husband once threatened to “out” me if I didn’t cook. Well, I mean, I was buying items using coupons it’s just I didn’t feel like cooking. I could have, but you know.. 🙂
The thing I have the issue with is that there is a mom watching the show tonight like I was when I really needed to find a tangible way to save. She’s not even gonna give this a chance because it looked all whackadoodle! That just saddens me the most!
TheHappyHousewife says
Andrea,
You are so right! I didn’t even think about that aspect of it! I’m sure there will be people discouraged to even start couponing. I remember when I first started shopping at CVS, I would go early on Sunday morning before church and some of the money maker deals were already gone from the shelves. It really made me want to stop trying!
Toni
Wendy C. Wood (via Twitter) says
Great post!! I love your last paragraph. I wanna be like you 🙂 The ladies at my church had a “class” one time, had this woman come in and teach them how to do the “coupon game”, and they paid like $10 to hear what she said. I politely turned the opportunity down because honestly, I don’t buy much that has coupons to begin with. The day whole foods starts putting out coupons for produce and bulk items, THEN we’ll talk! Otherwise it’s not worth my time in dealing with them.
Dena says
Toni-well said! I totally agree with everything you wrote.
Todd says
Great Post! Exactly right.
TheHappyHousewife says
You should check out The Thrifty Mama. She does Whole Foods match-ups!
Toni
Cherie from Queen of Free says
Andrea, I am totally with you on misconception of viewers of this show. It’s going to be doubly hard to convince people that it doesn’t take a ton of time or strategy to coupon effectively after that hideous display.
I’ve said it once, and won’t hesitate to say it again, greed is simply greed. Whether you desire candy bars by the 100s, toilet paper by the 1000s or dollar bills by the billions. Free is good but not at the expense of people.
I don’t want to live in a world where toiletries mean more than my own family.
Awesome post that I very much resound with. Preach it sister.
TheHappyHousewife says
Thanks Cherie!
Stephanie Brennan says
I follow couponer #2. She posted a video tonight on her blog that I don’t think was shown (I won’t be able to see it for 2 more hours). The video showed her donating almost 300 pounds of groceries to her local food bank. She talks about how she gives away a great deal.
Yes there are people that go way overboard but a lot of bloggers/couponers donate a great deal to homeless shelters, food banks, friends, and their families.
MNKristy says
“When I die, I want there to be nothing left to give…. because I gave it all away when I lived.”
Love this! This is exactly the philosophy that I want also.
Laura @ Homemaking Joyfully says
Very well stated. I thought all of the same things as I was watching.
I also had another thought about coupon ethics… I know for fact that a few of the stores I where I shop only allow a certain number of like coupons and some of the people profiled were using TONS of the same coupon. Since the store names, etc. were shown, will this effect how they decide or change their coupon policies and hurt those of us who truly do use coupons for the proper reasons and in reasonable quantities?
Why can’t they profile people who don’t got overboard and truly use the system in the way it’s suppose to be. That would be more of a benefit to general society. Ahhh – TV…
Erin says
I completely agree with your post, but there is one thing that you said that doesn’t sit right with me:
“Isn’t he the bread winner? Let him eat whatever cereal he wants!”
What a chauvinistic comment! I am disappointed to read such a hurtful, ignorant comment come from a blog that subscribe to (USED to) and respected.
Karen says
Great Recap! I recently reorganized our Pantry and started giving my husband the “tour”, I was using hand gestures like a stewardess doing the safety speech, “Please look for an open box HERE before proceeding to the top shelf to open a NEW box”. At least I didn’t have to take him into 3 separate rooms!
My biggest fear is how this makes all couponers look and how intimidating it is for beginners.
I loved Joyce, who said she only buys what she needs and gets out! That’s me 🙂
TheHappyHousewife says
I’m sorry you were offended by the comment. My point with the statement was that he is paying for the groceries, so I don”t think he should be told what cereal he has to eat. Actually I don’t think any wife should tell their husband what they are allowed to eat even if they don’t pay for it, or any husband should tell their wife what to eat…. it seemed like she was treating him like a child and not her husband.
TheHappyHousewife says
Yes, I really liked Joyce’s attitude!
Jen-Eighty MPH Mom says
What an excellent post! I have set this show up to record and can’t wait to watch. I saw a preview on ET last night and was stunned by several aspects. I still don’t see why anyone would want that much of anything, and I can’t help but think that their houses must be incredibly cluttered and messy. I guess I’ll find out when I watch 🙂
They also must live in states that double coupons – I can’t see how else you could save THAT much. I wish California doubled.
Anyways, sorry for rambling. This is an awesome post and I’m going to share it!
TheHappyHousewife says
Thanks! I can’t wait to hear what you think of it when you watch!
Tasha says
I’m with you. I will get the deals that I can, but I don’t clear shelves. If I miss a deal because I was spending time with my family, it wasn’t that big of a deal; time with my family is more important. The reason that I try to save is so that I can spend in areas that mean more. In other words, I save on pasta so that I can buy maybe a better cut of meat. And I do a lot of helping, donating to those I know and to those that I don’t know.
After I started couponing, hubby decided we should try to get healthier. This put a bit of a damper on my savings at first, because like you mentioned, a lot of the savings are actually on junk. However, it made me realize what you said is true, it’s not a good deal if it’s not good.
Jennifer @ Mom Spotted says
I so wish I saw this!
TheHappyHousewife says
I think they are replaying it if you have cable.
Mrs. Pear says
See, I just thought that what you said was common sense – it did not take long for me couponing with my newspaper and the printables to find out some shoppers are just weird! 🙂 So I enjoyed your post!
Although I will say that when we lived in Southern CA I often got coupons for fruit and veggies. Since moving the pacific northwest I have not seen any! One of the many reasons I have all but given up couponing – it just is not working well for us up here in this season. But if they start handing out coupons for pineapples again I will change my mind and fast!
Like everything else in this life it is moderation and good sense.
Seems like both are in short supply.
Wendy C. Wood (via Twitter) says
With that attitude I wonder why she subbed to a blog that used the term “Housewife”? Hmmmm …
Jen B says
I love coupons as much as the next soccer mom, but come on! I loved your last line – “When I die, I want there to be nothing left to give…. because I gave it all away when I lived.” I’m not bragging, just giving glory to God, but I’ve given away so much toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, razers, etc! People are always surprised that I get it for next to nothing. My stockpile consists of a large rubber maid container, when it’s full I start giving stuff away.
Shelly @ Coupon Teacher says
It is nice to read someone else’s thoughts that echo my own. I said the same thing in my post. Just different words.
Cindy Livesey says
Bravo Toni! Bravo!
My favorite was Joyce too. I loved when she said “you just haven’t been broke enough”.
Joy says
Well said. Loved the post!
Christa says
Couponing (which I enjoy and practice) has been a thought provoking activity for me – I will get up early for Harris Teeter Super Doubles and be excited enough to tell others about what I got, but… Would I get up an hour early to willingly spend extra time with my Lord and be excited enough to tell others about what I got spiritually. I will explain to friends, family, and perfect strangers how with a little investment into papers, and a little time cutting coupons and checking blogs that match deals, they can get things cheap or even free, but…would I explain to friends, family, and perfect stranger that they can have something of immeasurable value SALVATION, freedom from sin, a home in heaven- FREE for the asking, no coupon needed
carolyn J says
WOW! I thought I was bad with 6 kids and some of the things I stockpiled, When my babies were small I would get the huggies coupons and save them still a store ran a coupon as well and would stock up. CVS used to honor both making a pack go from about 9 bucks to around 4.50 and my mom would get them for me as well. I always kept at least three months of diapers and formula.
It was a good system as we were students when we had the first three and I can remember how it helped my budget,
I try to keep around three months of staples but am lucky to have HEB here and the coupons are all at the store ( lots of free fresh items like salad) I usually save about 75 to 100 on a trip of about 300-400. I really can’t imagine spending that amount of time on the coupons when my shopping already takes too long.
IT WOULD BE REALLY COOL FOR THE LADY WITH THE THOUSANDS OF ROLLS OF TOILET PAPER WOULD DONATE EVEN TEN PERCENT TO THE LOCAL HOMELESS SHELTER AND THE FOOD BANKS! They have a hard time getting things like tooth paste, floss, hsaving supplies etc.
LOL I could just see my husband of I did that. With 3 teenagers, I can imagine where it would go. Toiletpapering houses lol!
Also I never have regretted on insisting that there always be a three months supply. I went into a coma for four months after the birth of my last child and my poor mother had to take all 6 (10,7,5,2,1, and newborn) to wal mart by herself but it was only once!
Never hurts to be ready…
Sheryl George says
Loved your recap ~ yes, I think this show really did not enlighten people to the world of couponing, just showed everyone someone else’s obsessions. Great Post 🙂
Nell says
Toni, this is absolutely the most beautifully written post. If I knew of an award, I would submit it! Your blog is a pleasure to read and a daily dose of fun for me! 🙂 Thank you for your balanced approach to faith, family and frugality! Bless you!
Kelly says
What an awesome recap. You verbalized so many of the emotions I was feeling when I was watching it – at times it made me itch. I consider myself a pretty good couponer and my kids have never been in a dumpster, my car is still parked in the garage, and I have a social life.
Did they save a ton of money? Yes. But do you need to live like them to save money. Absolutely not. Find a balance. Enjoy life, not the “thrill” of the deal.
Jess says
They are reshowing it January 4th at 10 p.m. and January 5th at 1 a.m.
Jess says
This was spot-on to what I was thinking. I coupon and have for a couple of years, but I can’t imagine spending money/time on things like that. It’s crazy! I think most couponers will look at these extreme situations and forget about it, but I hope newbies don’t think they need to jump into couponing like this.
Oh, and I thought it was kinda ironic that TLC played their new show about strange addictions right after this.
Jess says
And it said she worked a full time job! I can’t imagine!
TheHappyHousewife says
You should have been on the show Kelly! When I was watching the second girl, (she was so cute) I thought of you! Not because you coupon like that, but because I could picture you on television!
TheHappyHousewife says
I agree, very ironic! Toilet paper stash… then eating toilet paper. Anything for ratings I guess!
TheHappyHousewife says
Thanks Nell! How are you doing?????
Jolanthe says
Well said, girl! 🙂 I used coupons a long time ago, but quit because so much of the stuff was for foods that we stopped eating {heavily processed} and once I set up a menu plan I quit buying all the ‘filler’ stuff.
Honestly, I can’t imagine spending the time these ladies do to get all of the stuff…especially if it put further stress on my family/marriage ~ TRULY not worth it!
Amy Lynne says
I love bargains, but that is over the top! Your post sums it up, family should be the priority.
Kathy says
I am so proud of you for this incredible, helpful post! Press on with such timely advice for all of us!
Bette says
Amen!!!!!!!! A perfect summary of the show!
Tina Klein says
I too was disappointed in the show, and I think it could of showed the other side of couponing which is charity:(The last guy did donate the cereal to charity..which was cool) I do not climb in dumpsters, I have the community turn in coupons, I have never gotten 40 or more of something at one time, I do couponjing ethically, and within reason, and still donate over 300 a month to my local food pantry. I actually probably should save a little more of what I get free, but I am going to have to shop anyway..why not help those that need it “)
Stephanie says
Count me in as another unsubcribed member. I found your post to be very judgemental.
TheHappyHousewife says
I agree Tina, I was very disappointed in TLC’s portrayal of couponers. They needed to put more emphasis on the fact that people donate a lot of this free stuff, if they do. I would hate to think that people would be discouraged from using coupons after watching this…
Toni
Cindy says
Amazing. That first lady spends $70 on coupons, then $51 for the groceries? I spend $70 on a week’s worth of groceries, sans coupons. And we eat fresh, homemade food that rarely comes from a box or the freezer section. I’ll bet some other couponers out there will tell you these people (except maybe the last guy) AREN’T DOING IT RIGHT. They are driven by the coupons, not using them as tools. I religiously clipped coupons for 3 years. Maybe 4. I can’t remember. But I wasn’t actually saving any money compared to the way I shopped before that, or the way I shop now. And the food was worse. Hey. I wrote a post about that. I’m fishing for it now….
http://getalonghome.com/?p=5669
That’s really all I have to say on the subject. :0)
Melinda says
i agree with a lot of point you made. I can’t understand why a family would need so many toothbrushes or hand soaps. We don’t coupon because we don’t eat most of the stuff that can be bought with coupons. I’d love to learn how to do it for health and beauty items and detergents and cleaners. I agree with take what you need leave the rest for other people who need it. Now I know why when I go to the store for a great deal the shelves are bare, the crazy coupon lady swiped it all.
Debra @ Bungalow says
Yes I saw this show and thought ….it’s not free if you spend all day organizing and looking for deals and coupons! It’s your job!
Can you say hoarders????
Lisa says
Happy Housewife, your review on “Extreme Couponers,” matched our feelings exactly. You’re right when you say television producers make their money by sensationalizing their topics and guests — that is sort of where we’re at in our society as tv viewers. If TLC were to feature coupon users like you or us girls at Obsessive Coupon Disorder they’d have to rename the show to “Above-Average Couponers!”
Amy ~ The Crimson Beloved says
You might have lost a few readers but you gained at least one! I’ve been couponing for one year now. I have the advantage of living in Canada and being just a few minutes for the USA. So, I can cross border shop. Somethings like toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper are practically free in the USA while they are very expensive in Canada. Knowing that I couldn’t cross the border to shop in the fall because of work, I slowly stockpiled my families needs and planned for 10% more. As a family we’ve been able to bring large families like ours into our home to feed them and send them off with all those basic supplies. This frees up their budget a bit, while they were looking for work. It’s been fun and rewarding. The only thing I over bought was ziploc baggies, but the food bank will be happy to get a few of those also. Couponing has benefits but hoarding is just wrong. If God blesses you then send the blessings onto others, too!
Marianne says
@Andrea You said exactly what I was thinking after reading Toni’s post. Anyone who is new to couponong watching that display of excess, greed, and hoarding would be tempted to think ALL couponers are nutso and/or be frustrated because they didn’t have the resources/space/time to stockpile enough toilet paper to last until they’re 80.
I didn’t see the show but I’ll be looking for it now. Toni, you did a great job of summarizing it.
All in all, it’s just sad. To hoard to that degree is wrong on so many levels.
TheHappyHousewife says
I was thinking of doing my own show on youtube…. Savvy Shoppers! 🙂
TheHappyHousewife says
Wow, sounds like you are able to really take advantage of the sales and bless others! Thanks for sharing!
Lisa H. says
Great post. I agree with you completely. Just because I can get something for minimal cost or free, doesn’t mean I should. I only use coupons for things that actually want to feed me family, and even then I forget the coupon most of the time. 🙂 A lot of coupons are for junk food or brands that I chose not to use. I also think that spending any $$ on toilet paper or another product, when you already have a wall of it, just doesn’t make sense. Kudos to those people that donate their stock piles, it is much better to be a blessing to someone else, than hoard all these products for oneself. This extreme couponing is just another form of addiction. How sad that some people will let it ruin their relationships.
Dannelle says
Having been on tv before myself, I DO think they took some journalistic liberties with this – like the lady wasn’t “dumpster diving” for coupons, she was in a paper recycling bin. I know people who will dumpster dive for food – in the actual dumpsters behind grocery stores – and have no problem feeding their family a head of lettuce that they had to peel the first 1/2 off of…(ew!) I aim more for the $160 for $1 type of transactions than the $5,000 for a few hundred bucks…
I agree with you on the fine balance between hoarding and stockpiling…and find it interesting that some people don’t see their TIME as money. Time is SO valuable, especially when raising little ones.
I blogged on this too last night and we share a lot of the same thoughts…
Kristi says
Thanks for this post!!! I watched the show and thought exactly the same points – but could never articulate them the way you do. Of course, I also understand the producers are slanting the issue to make a good show and all of those folks sensationalized what they do just a bit or even a lot! And for most of them, if-not all, couponing is their full-time job as they are bloggers who get paid in advertisements. It’s certainly not for me, but I do appreciate the information they pass on, and use it for saving money only on the products I use. I have no space for more than a few “extras” but with folks like you that help with menu planning and creative ideas to use what you have – I am content with my grocery budget and live well within our means!!! Thanks again!
Kelly says
I had mixed emotions watching the show. While I would never stock up on 3,000 rolls of toilet paper, I was envious of some of the deals that were found. But, would I ever clear a shelf for a deal? No – unless there was only one of something left. 🙂 Would I ever buy 150 candy bars? No. Would I clear out my garage or a room in my home to dedicate it to a stockpile? No.
Do I use the circulars to find the best deal on the best products and buy a few months worth at a time when they are on sale? Yes. Do I match-up coupons or “hoard” them for a good sale? Yes. Do I have a small stockpile that could sustain the hubby and I for a couple of months? Yes.
This all comes down to strategic vs. extreme, as Andrea talks about on Savings Lifestyle. And Toni – you hit the nail on the head. Spend time with your family – they are what truly matters. And stuff is just stuff. We all love the thrill that comes with a deal that we worked hard to get, but do we really want to be 100% defined by those deals? I’m happy being known as the deal-seeker in our office, but it makes me even more happy when I am known as a good wife, friend, sister, daughter, and Christian. Just sayin…
Tabitha (A Penny Saved) says
Thanks for saying what I was thinking. I will definitely link this to my blog’s FB page.
TheHappyHousewife says
Thanks Tabitha!
Lynda says
Wowsers! She must do nothing else BUT look for coupons. She can’t possibly have time for friends, not to mention her husband. Sad.
chanin says
I have many thoughts about the show too and agree with everything that you said here. My problem with the 3rd lady, sorry if this was brought up already, was that she was stealing coupons from papers on peoples porches!
The first girl and last guy live in the Cincinnati area where I am from. Nathan, from what I’ve heard, donates a lot to his Churches Food bank and will also allow people that are going thru a difficult time to “shop for free” in his garage. I’m not sure that the other girl donates at all and has no kids that I noticed so, that to me appears to be totally wasteful. Plus, I didn’t see her purchasing anything slightly healthy!
I really hope these people don’t actually go in and “clear the shelves” as it appeared they did (hopefully only for the show). The stores would be more than happy to order things for you! It’s behavior like that which gives the rest of us a bad image!
chanin says
Oh, also .. the second girl had all that food in her garage .. okay, that’s fine but is it air conditioned?? I can’t imagine that summer and extreme heat would be very good for some of those things. Like putting the spaghetti sauce in front of the window. Maybe this is just personal opinion but I thought it seemed like it would cause things to lose shelf life
Allison says
I was not a subscriber to your FB page but I am now …. “I want to be remembered as someone who lived with the priorities of God, Husband, Family.” Amen and may God bless you and your family ….
Jessica says
thank you so much for taking the time to write this all out. I enjoyed reading exactly what needed to be said, and in such a tactful way! you are fantastic!
TheHappyHousewife says
I think the second girl lives in Northern CA, which has a milder climate… but I don’t know enough about food storage to know what temperatures are ideal for storing certain items.
Denise@TogetherWeSave says
I only caught the second half of the show, I was not impressed with their coupon skills. I think extreme couponing can be an addiction like any other. I love a good deal but I really try to not let it go to far.
Sarah says
Hey Toni,
Long time lurker who has always enjoyed checking what you have to say each day in your posts! You have always given me a lot of perspective in terms of family, faith, and money. So sorry that it looks like you lost a couple uptight readers, but surely you gained even more with this post. You hit the nail on the head. I couldn’t agree more with all your points. Everything in life is all about balance…
Stephanie says
WELL SAID!! You pretty much said everything I wanted to say!
Amy says
Anyone who dumped you because of this post is crazy. You are exactly right with everything you said.
Jenny says
Amen.
There is some serious greed and hoarding going on. Awesome for the guy to donate the cereal to the food bank, but what about the million bottles of body wash he’s “storing”? The toilet paper? Sad.
Jami @ An Oregon Cottage says
Thank you for this- you said what I often think when I see a stockpiles that needs it’s own room or someone who crows about getting 20 tubes of mascara free. You’re so right- life is not about what you can get, but what you can give…
Mrs. O says
Well said! I agree TV loves to show everything in the extreme. I don’t spend much time at all and thanks to you I spend even less time. Makes it worth it but I am not consumed. I wish they would show people like you! :O)
Laurie V says
Great post. I agree with the health issue- the more coupons I use, the less healthy my food seems to be. I now use coupons just on toiletries, granola bars, and the “good” cereal. Also makes my shopping trips faster and stress free!
Angel says
The man WAS the breadwinner just like my husband is. If I had the job I’d be the breadwinner & he’d be the SAH parent. Seriously…..read the entire context…..happy is never chauvinist & I think that you took it out of context or there are deeper reasons for your outburst. We are all adults here.
Andrea says
First of all great recap!!!
I did see the show and I think it was a little much! It portrayed couponers as a bit crazy, but also showed the power of coupons on a positive side too! I’m a couponer myself, but I would NEVER buy 40 boxes of pasta, 1100 boxes of cereal or 300 toothbrushes!!!!
Angel says
I agree with your thoughts on real food. (well I agree w/ everything but this really hit me)
I use coupons but I also buy real food which does not usually have coupons. Milk, fruit, veg & meat are main stays in our diet & while yes you can find coupons for the canned stuff finding a coupon for fresh stuff is as rare as hen’s teeth.
Therese says
Well stated! Love the last paragraph! Saving money is great, sacraficing family and relationships is NOT!
Amy says
Very good article, and I agree with you whole-heartedly. And I must say I’m glad I’m not the only one that was bothered with the wife telling her hubby what cereal to eat. I do follow her on Facebook, just because she sometimes has some really good deals. But I only purchase 1 or 2 at a time, not 40…The retired nurse was my favorite too, because She did have some stuff stock-piled, but not anywhere near what the others had. Also, she was willing to teach friendsher tricks. Also Her walking around collecting her coupons accomplished 2 things for Her. Gave her exercise for the day, and She was able to build relationships with people. What She was doing made sense to Me, the others I thought were just insane.
Sandra says
.. touche’. 🙂
Sandra says
would love to watch that! 🙂
Laurie says
I ditto your sentiments. I really enjoyed your post, As the show came to an end last night I thought, they are just hoarders and this obsession has consumed their lives. Joyce was definitely the most sensible of the bunch. When I saw how many sports drink was in their stockpiles I thought, good gravy, are they training for a triathalon or have 3 teen boys playing football? Why would anyone want to stockpile that much sports drink? I don’t buy much processed foods so to me it all rather mind boggling. When you meal plan, try to use fresh ingredients (even growing some yourself) and sensibly use coupons you can really cut your costs and not have to take up the garage or 2/3 rooms to do it.
Michelle says
Wow. I don’t have cable TV so I haven’t seen this show but wow! That’s kind of… sick. Extreme couponing indeed! While I have to admit that I love a good deal as much as the next gal, I don’t really understand the “savings” of stockpiling. We don’t stockpile in our household and try to only buy maybe a month or two out when it comes to canned goods. It seems to me in just the past few months I’ve read on various blogs about cleaning out one’s pantry to find horrifically old food. I know it happens but stockpiling at all sort of invites it, doesn’t it? Not to say that your average American stockpile is anything like the monstrosities you just described, of course, but maybe a half-year purge at Spring/Fall cleaning is in order for most households. At least then near to expiry food can be given to food banks.
Gina @Four Meals in 4 Minutes says
I totally agree! I loved the way you put things. I LOVE saving w/ coupons but
I often think of giving it up because so much of it is processed food and not what my menu really needs. Balance is so important.
Nora@ The Dollar Hollering Homemaker says
I didn’t watch the show as we don’t have cable. But I’ve heard a lot about it.
Personally, I don’t use a ton of coupons. We get free smart source inserts in our neighborhood and I collect them from neighbors who don’t use them/want them.
I am also a part of viewpoints, she speaks and request free samples which sometimes come with high value coupons.
I use the coupons I gleam to buy products (mostly household) and play the drugstore game as best as I can. I eat a lot of produce and organic meats so I don’t save so much at the grocery store, on average about 40% by shopping sales, buying in season, stockpiling, and using a few coupons. But I do save a lot on personal care/household and stop when I get to a 6 month or years supply (depends on the item). I never buy my whole “supply” at one time or even one store as to leave some for others and wish others would be so kind as to not wipe out an entire store’s supply for a good “deal.”
I also use ebates and swagbucks when buying/searching online which helps me stretch my budget even farther.
I believe in balance and because I’ve stayed in budget, i am treating my husband to delivery pizza and wings tonight as this time a year he works 14 hour days and is in need of a special “treat.”
TheHappyHousewife says
I love free samples too! I was getting a lot of them in the beginning of the year, but then I slacked off. I agree, they really have some high value coupons, I remember getting Kashi for free this year because of samples.
Toni
Cara says
AMEN!!!!! My thoughts exactly! I watch this show and was appalled! Even processed foods have a limited shelf life. There is no way a normal family could consume most of the food purchased in a reasonable, safe time! The guy who donated the food to the food bank was smart, and I was intrigued by the idea of doing something similar…. especially the health and beauty products… shelters and safe houses would love that stuff! Nonetheless, too extreme! Great post! Thanks for articulating my thoughts exactly! Happy New year!
Kelley says
Well said!! I love coupons, but just can’t see buying something cheap just because it’s cheap. My time is worth something as well. I did not see the show, but have wondered about these extreme couponers – why pay for a clipping service??!! Just pay full price for an item!
And I too, want to give myself and my things away.
Michele says
I agree with you, Happy Housewife! And I don’t see your statement as chauvinistic, hurtful, or ignorant….I see it as truth.
I’ve just subscribed to your newsletter – because of your statement/stance.
Thanks!
Delphine says
This is the question I have been asking! I cant imagine a store anywhere that doubles that many $1.00 coupon’s that are the same. Around here very few double at all and the few that do will only double only one on a like item after that they are face value. I would love to find a place that would double several alike coupons, I wouldn’t buy 150 of anything but we have to make several stops at the store’s when there is a sale to stock up, or do multiple order’s. I wonder if the store owner’s watched this show… and if that might change their coupon policy? I mean…don’t the store’s absorb the half of the coupon that doubles? That is what a store manager told me once that when they double a dollar coupon to $2.00 they get the $1.00 and a handling fee and they cover the rest, that means when someone saves $5000 on doubled coupons the store loses almost $2500. Also when couponers that buy anything just because it is free or cheap, they pay tax on items they dont need which defeats the whole purpose of saving money. I agree that it is a shame couponing couldn’t be profiled in a responsible way to show how to really stretch your budget with coupons
Christina says
Did you hear them mention they have to insure there stock pile! How much are they really saving?? I feel bad when I can get 8 pkg of toilet paper for .25 but I don’t think I would clear the shelf. They are out there. I can’t wait to see what yahoo’s they find for the next episode. I have learned to coupon out of necessity and I don’t go to the garbage but for a good diaper deal I will go to my neighbors for their coupons. I love this blog.
Kristin M says
I agree with some of the things you are saying, but I also disagree – I think you are also looking at the show in the wrong light. I believe your attitude is expressing that this show does not shed light on normal couponers – but you must realize, it never could. The show is called “EXTREME COUPONING” – This show did NOT depict a normal shopping experience for these people. Even the narrator said they were the “biggest hauls ever” – the second lady, Joanie from CA even explains on her blog that this was the best she ever did – these people really DID IT UP for the show.
I agree: The first lady is CLEARLY a hoarder – for all the reasons you said – you laid them out perfectly. I also agree this show will shed bad light on couponers.
Your comment about their eating habits: “These people saved big money, but I didn’t see a whole lot of fruit, vegetables or meat in their cart.” – some of them did have produce (strawberries) and meat (whole roaster chickens) but again this show is depicting extreme couponing – if we saw them ring up “normal” things – meat, veggies, milk, it wouldn’t be as sensational because their totals would not be that low.
In reference to couponer # 2- “On her shopping trip she purchased 40 boxes of pasta” – yes she did, as she was making the show more “sensational” by purchasing more. What you don’t see is her video on her blog where she donated over 300 lbs of food to a local food bank. I would and do tell my boyfriend which cereals are to be eaten first – otherwise, it is likely that older cereals will fall to the back and we’ll have expired cereal. He is the breadwinner – but I’m the shopper/chef/everything else. Unless he wants to flush money down the toilet for throwing away boxes of expired cereal, he eats whats in front. Also on shopper # 2- “She has a stockpile that takes up her entire garage for a family of four” – it lines two of the walls, and does not fill the garage. She fits two of her cars in the garage, also.
I agree that the lady from Philly was super – I enjoyed watching her helping other shoppers!! It’s nice to see her community saving coupons for her as well. Was nice to see Nathan donating all that cereal – clearly that was his intention behind purchasing all of it to begin with – I certainly hope however that he also donates some of that salad dressing, deodorant, and toothbrushes which he seems to be holding onto and could never possibly use.
Kristin M says
Hence the name “EXTREME COUPONING” – 🙂 Keep in mind the majority of that was donated, too.
Jenn says
Haha I watched the same show and blogged about it http://soulsearching4something.blogspot.com/2010/12/extreme-couponing.html
I was amazed by these extreme couponers and their addiction to couponing (minus lady #3 and the guy who donated to his church). You absolutely can hoard food. Maybe TLC should have a food hoarders show next. lol
Andrea says
Thank you for sharing this.
I feel if you have the time to do this (pending not harming your relationships!!) then sharing these blessings w/those less fortunate would be appropriate. I’m sad to see so much accumulation of food, hygiene care when there are so many needy folks.
-Hopefully, a light bulb goes off for them one day to see how they could bless others w/generosity.
: )
Jenn says
Thanks for the recap – it saved me from having to watch the show 🙂 That kind of stockpiling is completely out of control! The only thing that would make that type of extreme couponing acceptable would be if they donated the excess to a food bank or something. Reading that the one person donated 100 boxes of cereal made me smile 🙂
I live in a small apartment so there isn’t room for much stockpiling. The closest I have gotten is freezing all of the veggies we bought at the farm. We had so many veggies that we had to give some away! But, I have enough veggies for the entire winter (with the exception of lettuce and tomatoes as those can’t be frozen).
Tracy says
I couldn’t agree more. I did watch the show, and was mostly just saddened by it. The first lady needs help…she really does. You’re exactly right, she’s going to destroy her marriage and lose friends if she doesn’t back off. The second lady is the one who wrote the book, Pick Another Checkout Lane, Honey. She’s the Krazy Coupon Lady. There’s a video on her FB page that shows her donating a good bit of her televised shopping trip haul, so she didn’t keep all of it. Dumpster diving, though? No way! I just loved the third lady!! I love how she said that to the coupon naysayers, she says, “Baby, you just ain’t been broke enough!” Too funny!
I was disappointed in the show because I was hoping it would be more people like the 3rd lady (more in the normal range), and that it would give more tips and tricks and ideas. I didn’t realize it was just going to be reality show ratings nonsense. So sad. Gives couponing a bad name.
TheHappyHousewife says
Tracy,
I think we just need to expect that from television. We’ll have to stick to reading blogs to give us a realistic view of couponing and saving money! 🙂
Charlene says
Great job Toni! I have a concern similar to Andrea in that really gives people a very unrealistic idea about couponers. I would love to see the actual break down of the trips. You can certainly get lots of items for very little with coupons but I know in my state (CA) I pay .10 tax just on a liter of soda. So 40 liters should cost $4.00 in tax alone. My concern is that people will assume they can duplicate the transactions and regularly get hundreds of dollars in free groceries. It doesn’t always work that way and those people featured were very lucky to have exceptionally accommodating stores.
Valerie says
That couple didnt even have any kids!!! It was just her and her husband!
I think extreme couponing is “fine” (not really FINE, but not as CRAZY) if you’re donating most of your stash! But these people were crazy!!!
And can I just say, I WISH I could find free toilet paper!!! I am brand loyal to Charmin or Cottonelle and I just cannot find it for very cheap… And those lame $.25 coupons from Charmin dont help! lol
darcie says
I saw this crazy show…
What a waste…even deodorant has an expiration date –
I get that these folks get a thrill out of it – I know I do when I save myself a decent amount (you know, like $17 on one shopping trip!). So…if they are going to donate these items to say, a women’s shelter, the red cross, the food shelves – then have it…go and have a great time – but to stock pile in your garage like this?
I heard the guy say something like ‘this is every man’s dream’ before taking us out to his garage (on the show) to see his stockpile…um…want to know something?
That’s my husband’s nightmare…he gets twitchy when I have 3 tubes of toothpaste in the bathroom closet at any given time…
Patricia says
I missed the show, but appreciate the summary. I can’t imagine spending 70 hours doing this and I agree with you, I’d rather spend time with family and friends. I would like to save more on my shopping though, so I’ll have to tune in next week to find out their secrets. Thanks for an interesting post.
Cathy says
I found the comment a bit off too. My husband is the bread winner, he works, I don’t but I work hard to take care of him, the house, the finances. I do everything and gave up a career to do so. His job is such that if I worked, we wouldn’t see each other and nothing in the house would get done. It works for us and to add another wrench into it, we don’t have kids. Lemmee tell you the raised eyebrows THAT one gets! lol
I think the comment could be taken by some as the housewife role is less valued than the spouse who makes money. I don’t make money, but I go to great lengths to save money by using coupons in a normal manner, not excessively like the people on the show. But what I do in our household has ‘extreme’ value and the comment could be perceived like it doesn’t.
I don’t have a stockpile, but if something has an expiry date, I will tell him to grab the one with the closest expiry date. With all the efforts I go to to save money, don’t want to waste it, so I didn’t anything wrong with her comment about expiry dates. It is practical and prevents waste.
TheHappyHousewife says
Cathy,
I can assure that was not the intent of the comment. My point was that he is a grown man, bringing in a significant part of the family’s income. I don’t believe he should be treated like a child and told what he can eat, when.
Of course, I have mentioned to my husband that certain foods were getting close to the expiration date and needed to be eaten first, but it seemed clear to me, and many others who watched the show, that she was definitely telling him what to eat.
I would be just as irritated if a man told his wife what she could eat….
Toni
MICHELLE says
I totally agree with everything you said. Personally I think that because of obsessive coupon users…the coupons will soon disapear and people like me who use them in a civilized manner will suffer the consequences.
Annette says
Your last paragraph is exactly how I feel..
G says
Loved your post!!!
I would love to learn to save more effectively with coupons, however if you noticed, I do not believe many of the carts contained items to effectively cook meals for a week! I could buy 50 boxes of pasta and spaghetti sauce, however serving it more than once a week so would not go over well in my house! They were only a family of three – can you seriously tell me that they go through that much pasta and sauce without it expiring?
My dream would be to do effective couponing and do as the last gentleman did and donate it to local food banks to others. I believe I try to effectively stockpile with items we use often, however to help others would be the high, not a stockpile of toilet paper that would last a lifetime!
Christina says
I was just wondering besides donations who buys the food for food banks and if we should go and teach them how to coupon so they can do this extreme couponing? I will call one I know of on Monday as they are closed today. What do you think?
Lecia says
The man giving the cereal to the food bank was the only thing that saved this show for me. All those rooms full of goods could be put to so much good use!
But, I admit, I was fascinated…
Amy says
I totally agree. We came into this world with nothing, and we will go out the same way. I love to save money too, but not at the expense of using more time than it’s worth. It’s not really free if it costs you time, your relationships, etc.
Kymberly says
Giant Eagle is an Oh/PA chain that doubles up to .99 no limit on the number of coupons for same items – just so you know that these places do exist. I’ve read on other sites that this appears rare so I’ll try to be more thankful in the future.
Like other, however, I fear that the “hoarders’ will ruin it for the rest of us. I tend to have 3-4 of any one coupon (I like the Sunday paper and would buy/read it anyway, and my Gram gives me hers) and that’ enough for our family of four.
When the shelves are cleared out within an hour of the first day of the sale – that’s a sign that something’s got to give and coverage like this will just make the problem worse.
juliann says
My Giant only doubles one coupon…. if you use two, only one doubles 🙁
Maopa@Luscious Deals says
Amen. I haven’t seen the show yet. I’ve heard about it from friends
and family. I agree with you. When I go coupon shopping I only
get what’s enough for my family and leave the rest for someone
else.
Chris says
Thank you for a very insightful post about what it takes to do extreme couponing. I had always felt something was wrong with me that I couldn’t figure out how to as much as these folk when I went to the store, but I now understand what it actually takes, and I’m glad I’m just the way I am! LOL I like a good deal just like everyone else, and I think using coupons can be helpful. I’m just glad to have read your post here. Honorable goals and legacies in life too. Well said. Thanks!
Jessica says
Can we start a new show? We could call it “Logical Couponing”. Of course, nobody would watch it!
I’m pretty sure there is nothing in this world that would be worth sacrificing my marriage or my kids over. Nothing. I do have a stockpile, although nothing like what was on TV. We’ve somehow gotten to this season of life where we have lots of young married friends. It’s a huge joy to have them over for supper and send them home with a month or more of toiletries. I’ve kept one couple stocked in contact solution for over a year now. It’s not the ultimate joy by any means, but it’s pretty cool! It’s so fun that when the kids from the local school come by asking for donations for the food bank, I can just run to the basement and bring out a few bags of stuff. I love that when I run out of something (ie ketchup or something) I can head down to the basement and get another bottle and know that I got the best price for it. I’m having another baby in July and I love that I’ll be able to forget couponing for a while and focus on my new bundle without sacrificing the budget. I’m a SAHM and know that part of that job is keeping our finances in order. I’m so thankful that I have another way to do that through couponing, stockpiling, etc. 🙂 Thanks for the great reminders here and on facebook. Keep ’em comming!
Sarah M @ Shopping Cart Divas says
Jen B – I totally agree with you! I keep a laundry basket to fill with toiletries that I get for free and when it’s full – it’s donated! Same with pet items – I pick up food, treats, etc when they are free or near-free with coupons and then when our brown grocery bag is full – my daughter Rose (8) and I stop at our local Humane Society to drop off the bag of pet items and play with the animals – happens about every 6 weeks or so. It’s a great way to teach your children on how to help others!
sylvia says
o saw this show with my daughter. and she she kept yelling at the tv, “why don’t you donate this food. why do you need to hoard it. you could help so many people.” she felt these people could fill the shelves of food banks and food pantries that help the needy
Mary says
I honestly don’t know how our local Walgreen’s stays open. I had never shopped there but when I started reading their newspaper insert for the weekly sales, I would find a few really really good deals, so I went there. But the store is a bit far from my home & I don’t get out much, so the sale started Sunday & I went on Tuesday. I was lucky to find on or 2 of the sale items, I do believe those loss leaders are gone right after the store opens on day one of the sale. Anyway as I went around for the sales I paid attention to their regularly priced items and could not beLIEVE how much they charge for other stuff. Who would pay such a price when even the little locally owned grocery store by my home sells it cheaper? All I can think is that Walgreens in other places (I’m in Northern Michigan, hit hard by recession) must sell their stuff for much better prices.
Christina says
I agree the Walgreens here in CO I don’t go unless there is a sale.
Cathy says
I agree about Walgreen’s and that is why I only shop there for sale items. If you combine coupons with their deals, you can come out with some very cheap stuff, but if you live far away, may not be worth it. They do have some fabulous deals and many get sold out fast. I just get a rain check because they never expire. But I also have about 5 Walgreen’s within 2 miles of my house.
Mary says
A few people have written they agree with me that Walgreen’s only has good prices during good sales (other stuff overpriced)…well that’s only 2 people but since that’s all I have to go by, lol, really makes me wonder more than ever how these stores survive? As an example, and I found many, the big refill size (I think 56 oz?) of Softsoap handsoap has gone up to $5.69 at my local K-Mart, but Walgreens sells a bottle for $8.00 and some change! Wow!! So when they had buy one get one free I went in and got 4, making them each $4.00. But the normal price!!!…
Karla@{TheClassyWoman} says
Amen! Well said, especially the part on leaving a legacy. I think some people have a very interesting view of what a ‘legacy’ is. I’m with you- love God and love others as we love ourselves while we are here on this earth.
michael says
I got into that show and tried to do it my very first time I went to Giant Food store was getting tissues they were 10 for 10 I had a coupon for .50 cents off and they double coupons I am thinking great 10 boxes of tissues for free well Giant only doubles the first coupon then only gives you face value so I am thinking that show is a scam for ratings.. I think I am going to be more like you live for the now.. thank you
Stephanie says
@Michael – You need to check your store’s coupon policy. Every store’s policy is different. The couponers are following their store’s policy.
joetta says
Yes, I have watched the TLC extreme couponing program. These people take it to the extreme and will never use everything they have bought. These people are “hoarders.” Food banks are crying for donations. I believe those people should donate their excess to the local food banks.
I also believe their time management and dollar sense is very selfish.
Christina says
Ok I have done some research and yes many of the extreme couponers take it to an unhealthy level but what they don’t show us is that many of the woman DO DONATE food to the pantries one I looked up and on facebook she gives away coupons and she shows her buys and what portion goes to the food banks if not all of it. I don’t personally know her but I think the reality part of the show is to glamorize this not show reality. This is one of the gals on face book Extreme Savings with Diva Desirae she was on the Extreme Couponing. If you don’t have facebook here is her webpage http://www.extremesavingswithdivadesirae.com.
I think TLC should be ashamed of themselves for not showing the families donating.
Dont says
They have shown one family donate, as far as i’ve seen.
Rachel R. says
Somebody may have already mentioned this …. but I just ran across this article http://www.jillcataldo.com/node/16258
and remembered this post from a while back. …. And suddenly it all makes a lot more sense!
I have gotten a great deal many times.
For instance, my Dh use to eat Lean Pockets and Hot Pockets a LOT. Once I found a sale on them – a really good sale! But I also had a huge stack of coupons for them – going dead that same month – so I was pleased to use every single coupon, getting a few for free, and others at half price!
Phylllis Ebbert says
I am so happy to see that I’m not crazy!!!! I have not watched the show, but the ads for this show blows my mind!!!!! I so agree with all of your thoughts on this subject. It sickens me to see these people getting all the attention for their greed and need for their 15 min. of fame. I would much more like to see them giving these “freebies” to their local community to help the people who can’t even afford what these people pay for the $1,000 of merchandise. We Americans are really out of control to find this type of program worth their time to watch. Use your energy to help real people in need! Disgusting is all I can say!!!!
Mary says
I’ve stopped watching the show weeks ago. Frankly I think it’s boring now-it’s the same thing every week. Really, does anyone else feel like it’s just different characters playing out the same scene? And at the checkout they all say how anxious they are that it’s not going to work out…kind of like Hoarders-we see the house filled top to bottom every week, sadness, anger at the cleanup, acceptance and they all end pretty much the same. Yawn.
Millicent says
what about medicines? i can get zyrtec, zantac and vitamins for really next to nothing, can that be donated also? Or, are food pantries and recipients too worried that they would be tampered with, do you think?
Christina says
There is a free clinic here in CO that will take meds in the original package. Call one of them about meds.’ Christina
becca says
you can watch all the episodes for free on sidereel.com… though i’m telling you this about 6 months too late… actually, you can watch pretty much any tv show on sidereel
ann reeves says
i feel that God has intrusted us to use wisdom in our choices. i believe there should be enough food for other people as well and not hoard it for themselves just because its a good deal. i believe there should be a limit on each item. i agree that we need to save and use coupons, but not go to the extreme where its a addiction.
kate says
lmao.. 40 boxes of pasta for a 4 person family being too much pasta for 3 months.. you obviously dont come from an italian family. we easily go through 40 boxes in 2 months, sometimes more than 40.. if there is only 5 boxes of pasta left its like the world is coming to an end. oh and when we were a 4 person family, 40 boxes wouldnt have even lasted a month.
Anne says
How sad that you are bad mouthing all couponers. Some of us are only purchasing what we actually need, and are sharing what is extra. I, personally, just yesterday as a matter of fact, purchased 300 dollars worth of groceries for 75 dollars and gave all of it to the local women’s shelter. Yes, I do save, I love to save, but not all of us are hoarders, greedy, or ignore our friends or families. I am so sick of people placing all people in one category simply because they have similar hobbies or likes.
Reuben Dunn says
A bit late in the day perhaps for a comment on this blog; but I’ve spent an hour or so watching Extreme Couponing on TLC over the weekend and find it both amazing and more than slightly disturbing.
I find it amazing that one can get such huge discounts on food items in that quantity. For “real” food shopping, e.g., for buying food and other items that one will actually use, this is a terrific way to save money. This is something that we are going to start immediately.
The disturbing asspect of it had to do with some of the items purchased, e.g., 128 cans of dog food, 123 candy bars, several gallons of flavored water etc.
I believe in food storage. I believe in having food and other items in storage to use in case of emergency. However many of those women who are coupon clippers, in my opinion, are horders. And I’m being more than a bit charitable with this assessment.
I do applaude the one or two that I’ve seen who donate bulk items to food banks, animal shelter, as well as providing for their familes.
However, having a stack of cereal boxes three feet deep for a family of six is a bit excessive, given the sale /use by date. There is simply no way at a lot of these perishable items can last their shelf lives.
Extreme ANYTHING should sound a warning bell for anyone.
I am, however grateful, if for no other reason, for that TLC show because it has opened my eyes to a better way of saving money in our household budget.