Black Friday Sale on Dragonfly Papers

Head on over to Dragonfly Papers this weekend to get a sweet deal on presents for loved ones and yourself!  Enter code, "BLACKFRIDAY20" to get 20% off EVERYTHING in the shop!  This deal will be good Black Friday through Cyber Monday (November 26-29).

Letters From Santa

Last year's Letters From Santa was a big success, and I am hoping for even more interest this year, because the cause is so near and dear to my heart!

The Cause:Let me tell you a little about a family that is such a total inspiration to me.  Their names are the Ackermanns, and they left literally everything behind to follow their calling to El Salvador where they work with orphans and homeless.  (See website: http://keafamily.org/Home_Page.html) They have lost everything (but gained as well!).  They believe so much in their cause and these children that they have used their own savings to help the project, and have even emptied their 401ks.  Their lives are total self-sacrifice.  In order to keep their mission going, they themselves go through trials, such as having their power shut off.  Would you help me in supporting their cause, and help the children of El Salvador?

The Letters: They will be made with cute Christmas stationery, and will be personalized with your child's name and special accomplishment for the year (ex: Honor Roll, potty training, getting along with sibling, etc.). It will be postmarked at the North Pole so it looks like Santa himself sent it. This year you can choose either a Christian or general message.

-100% of the profits will be donated to Susan and Kurt Ackerman for their orphanage and daily expenses!

Here's what I need from you:

1.Each child's name and accomplishment

2.$5 per child

3.A contact # for you (just in case I have any questions)

4. Let me know if you would like a Christian or general message.

Please send info and payment (cash or check) to:

Mackenzie Boothe 2282 Kings Creek Lane Newport News, VA 23602

I need to receive these by December 5th. If you would spread the word about this project, I would appreciate it.

Thanks so much for your help!

My favorite place to Shop for Christmas

     Well, Halloween is over which means every retailer in America is bombarding us with holiday music and threatening countdowns to Christmas. My husband and I have sworn that this is the year will be celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by spending more of our time and money on people in need, and my family is toning down the over-the-top festivities as well, but that being said, I cannot give up shopping altogether.  I just love picking out the right present for a person, and the anticipation is so great that I've been known to give presents away way before Christmas!  This is not to mention that absolute joy I have buying my kids presents, and watching them tear through the wrapping paper.  As long as we remember our Savior and his love this holiday season, a little shopping never killed anyone, right?
     Over the years, I have developed a tried and true method for Christmas shopping.  Years ago, I actually saved the festivities for Christmas Eve day, but looking back that seems absolutely crazy.  I now start plotting around Thanksgiving, and try to catch some of the awesome sales that start then.  Being a military family, we are always traveling over the holidays, and I have learned that buying stuff online and having it shipped to our holiday destination works the best, especially when we visit so many branches of the family. So the last two paragraphs were just a ridiculously long way to say that today I will be sharing some holiday shopping tips with you.
1. Black Friday- If you can handle it, the deals on the day after Thanksgiving can be absolutely amazing.  That being said, take it from someone who semi-seriously considered suicide while standing in line at a Children's Place last year: sometimes it is just not worth it.  If you live in a somewhat rural place it may totally be worth your while.  Newspapers reveal flyers for the event a day early, but searching many websites will give you sneak peeks way early.  Here are some: 

www.bfads.net

www.blackfriday2010.com

www.blackfriday.info
 www.Gottadeal.com

2. Overstock.com- I have never used this site, but people rave about it all the time, so I might give it a shot this season.  They feature $1 shipping, no matter how much you buy.  That can really come in handy on those heavy items.
3. Bidz.com- this website is kind of like Ebay on crack.  I have found some EXCELLENT deals on this site, which features bidding on jewelry and more.  It is very fast-paced, but I have found that if you stay up late at night there is less competition.  Get high-quality jewelry for a fraction of the price!
4. Etsy.com- This website is like Ebay, only everything is handmade.  Support local artisans, or get a one-of-a kind piece from someone across the world.  They offer everything from jewelry to stationery, to clothing, toys, furniture and more! Prices are generally very reasonable. Support the handmade movement!
5. Ebay.com- since I mentioned two sites "like" Ebay, I might as well give credit to the real McCoy.  I have found so many heartfelt gifts on this site over the years.  I think many people shy away from it because it may seem slightly tacky, but I can't tell you many awesome finds I have had on here.  Not only do I find awesome prices on crafty things like Cricut cartridges and accessories, I one year found an antique pencil box that so closely resembled my mom's childhood one that it brought tears to her eyes.  You could search and search through every antique store in your area and not find what Ebay has a hundred of.

     Well, this article either seemed horribly obvious, or gave you some new ideas.  Either way, I wish you the best in your shopping, and hope you avoid the homicidal urges which so often accompany the joys of the season!

A Tribute to Nancy Drew

     Growing up, I just couldn't get enough of super-sleuth Nancy Drew and her adventures.  Still to this day when I see a well-loved, yellow covered book, the little girl in me wants to flip through the pages and see what capers Nancy will encounter.  While it is not exactly socially acceptable for a grown woman to devote hours to reading childrens' books by herself, what is all the rage are vintage items that conjure up that reminiscent feeling in us all.  Pair that with the green movement and you see a lot of vintage items being upcycled. Upcycling is the process of changing a vintage item into something with a totally different use.  It is a great way to hold on to the old while incorporating a new, functional item.  There are many great items out there, however today's tribute is to Nancy Drew, a wholesome girl who never aged over the ages, and will continue to find her place in the lives of women young and old.    

This secret hideout for your valuables is by Secret Safe Books on Etsy

This typewriter key necklace features a tiny picture from a Nancy Drew book.  It was made by lizzybleu on Etsy.

This Nancy Drew book was made into a clock, and was made by teamawesomebaby on Etsy.

This book has been turned into a journal intermixed with blank pages and pictures from the original story.  It was made by yours truly, Dragonfly Papers.

This book has actually been made into a purse!  Genius!  Made by retrograndma on Etsy.

     

Dragonfly Papers Hits 100 Sales!

     In celebration of our 100th sale, Dragonfly Papers will be running a huge promotion.  Every order over $20 will receive FREE SHIPPING!  Check out our new items, and snag a great deal, too!

Saving Money While Crafting?

     Have you ever purchased the latest and greatest new crafty gadget only to find out it's a piece of junk?  I have had this happen more than once.  You are so excited to try it out, and find that it doesn't work like the infomercial showed, or even broke in a short amount of time. 
     I have found a website that just might help us all out!  It is called The Scrap Review, and they are dedicated to trying new products and reviewing them with no bias.  They list pros and cons, and even show a project they made with the new product!  They are so serious about being unbiased that they don't even sell any ad space on their site.  You are sure to get the skinny on what gadget is worth your money.
     Check them out: www.thescrapreview.com.
 

Ebates: One More Great Way to Save $$

     In case you haven't heard of it before, I will tell you about Ebates.  Ebates is a company that acts as a middle man between you and online stores.  The stores such as Old Navy, Barnes and Noble, Walmart, Children's Place (essentially all the main stores you could think of) pay Ebates to direct customers their way, and Ebates shares the profits with you!  There is no gimmick.  I have been paid several times just for shopping as I normally would.  I even got 21% back on a magazine subscription.
     Simply use this link to sign up, and shop as you normally would, and earn $5 right off the bat.  Earn up to 26% cash back on your purchases!  They have soo many stores to choose from, and they also list coupon codes to save extra money.  This one is a no-brainer!  Try it out today!

Monogrammed Wall Hanging Tutorial

Here's what I'm working on this week: a monogrammed plaque for my new nephew's nursery. This is how I made it.

I started by painting a large wooden plaque that I purchased at Michael's.

I then cut out a large letter using my Cricut machine.  You could also cut it by hand. I adhered it using simple Elmer's glue.

I painted the beveled edge of the plaque a chartreuse green to coordinate with the pattern on the letter.

I then nailed on a picture hanger (available at any hardware store, or Walmart).

Hang it up!

Hopefully my brother and his wife will enjoy this little addition for their little addition!

Buying Coupons?

I never thought I'd be one to do it, but today I officially bought my first coupons online.  Here's the deal, and why I caved.  I was referred to this site by my friend, Wendy, who swears by it, and I was pleasantly surprised.  The coupons were $.05 each, including shipping, and I could pick and choose the ones I needed, and the quantity.  They even ship out same day or next day on Sundays.  This is cheaper than buying an extra paper!  I will be able to get lots of free stuff at the Kroger sale now (Kroger doubles up to and including 50 cents everyday).  So here's the site: www.manufacturerscoupons.net.  You can check it out for yourself, and let me know what you think.  I know I am a huge fan.

Rite Aid: My Favorite Place to Shop

     After three different trips to Rite Aids in the area in one day, even my three year old son has begun to understand my love affair with Rite Aid.  A Rite Aid commercial comes on the tv, and he says, "There's your favorite store, Mama." And he's right.  Who wouldn't love a place where I can save so much, and even MAKE money on some trips.
     I have to admit, I started out a toal skeptic.  When Jen told me how much I could be saving, I thought that it would be difficult, or take a lot of time.  What I've grown to find is that is simple once you catch on, and the time is well worth the money in savings!  As pathetic as it sounds, shopping at Walgreens and Rite Aid has become a hobby of sorts for me.  To show you the basics, I have outlined the main ways to save at Rite Aid.

1. Coupons
     If you don't get the Sunday paper delivered to your house you are missing out.  Mine is delivered for $.99.  You can't beat that.  I clip about 20 times worth that amount in coupons each week, usually more.  In the paper you will get the Rite Aid (and other) flyers which will enable you to match coupons to sales.  If you don't have to be brand specific about items, you will be saving the big bucks in no time.  Even if there is not a sale, clip every coupon there is even a remote chance of using, and save it for the future.  Chances are there will be an upcoming sale or rebate to match that coupon.
2.  Rite Aid Rebates (Single Check Rebates)
     Each month Rite Aid puts out a flyer that lists all of the rebates they are offering.  When you purchase qualifying items, you simply enter the information from your receipt on their website, and Rite Aid keeps track of your rebates, and will send you a check when you request it. 
3.Video Values
     This program is on Rite Aid's website, and consists of you watching short videos about products.  After watching them, you are able to print out valuable coupons that are combinable with manufacturer's coupons.  For instance, a video value coupon is $2, and you have a $2 coupon from the paper = $4 off that product.  After earning 20 credits by watching videos, you are able to print off a $5 off $25 coupon.  These coupons are invaluable!  I simply take a trip to Rite Aid and try to hit the $25 mark.  With sales, coupons and rebates, I am often able to check out owing pennies, and expecting a rebate check in the mail!
4. +UP Rewards
     Rite Aid just started a program where the purchase of certain items will cause coupons to print out at the end of your purchase.  These can be used like cash on your next purchase toward ANY item.
5. www.iheartriteaid.com
     This website will lay out how to get the deals at Rite Aid, and even has sneak previews of next week's flyer so you can strategize when to use coupons.  There are even printable coupons on the side to help you save extra money.  She usually has links to more $5 off coupons, so you can stock up for those multiple trips.
6. Combining All of the Above!
     The above five strategies can be combined to save you a bunch of $$!!

     You may still be doubting if this is worth the trouble.  While I doubted at first, too, I have been completely won over, and save hundreds each month.  Jen stockpiled a bunch of free items she had purchased, and sold them at her yard sale, making around $200!!  It is worth your time.  There are items that are especially easy to get cheap, such as name brand diapers, toiletries, and household goods, and matching up the above ways to save will save you tons! There are links on Rite Aid's website to access all these deals.

Here are a couple of examples of freebies from this week's sales flyer:

This toothpaste is on sale for $3.  After purchase, you will receive a coupon for $3, making it essentially free.  Even better, I have a coupon for $1 off, so I will pocket $1 and get a toothpaste.

This offer costs $3.99.  Rite Aid is offering a $2.99 rebate, and giving you a $1 coupon when you check out, so it is free.  One more example, even though I'm sure you're getting the point.

This body wash is on sale for $1.99.  You get a $1 +UP Reward upon purchase, and there is a $1 off coupon in today's paper= +$.01 profit for you!

     Give Rite Aid a shot.  If you can work the system, you can make out like a bandit!

Dragonfly Papers: Some Shameless Self-Promotion

One thing I would like to do here is promote one of my favorite websites, which is Etsy.com.  If you have not checked it out, you really should.  It is sort of like Ebay, only everything is handmade.  Not only is it a great place to shop or try your hand at selling, it is an awesome place to get inspiration for your own projects. I have a shop on Etsy (Dragonfly Papers), and I figure, what's the point of having a blog if you don't get some promotion for yourself?  So here goes.
 My shop features all handmade stationery goods, from monogrammed cards to journals, invitations and birth announcements.  Here are some pictures.

This journal is made from an old Nancy Drew book.  I loved reading these books when I was kid.

         These flat cards have been very popular this summer.

These sweet little cards are perfect for a quick thank-you, a gift enclosure, or a note for your child's lunchbox.

These little envelopes give your business card the extra attention it deserves!

     Okay, I am finished.  Check out the whole shop if you'd like.  We Can Do It Girls readers will receive 10% off their entire purchase just by entering "Dragonfly" in the coupon bar.

     Stay tuned for other Etsy sellers being featured in the future!

Hands Down the Best Photo Website Ever

     Today I found one of the best photo printing websites ever!  Their prints are super cheap.  4 x 6 prints start at 6 cents, 5 x 7 prints at 12 cents, and 4 wallets are 15 cents.  Even 8 x 10s are an amazing 49 cents.  But wait, there's more!  New customers get credit for 1200 (Yes, you read that right!) FREE prints.  That is 600 4 x 6s and 600 5 x 7s.  Unbelivable, right?  They even give you credits toward purchases if you tell your friends about them on Facebook!  They have tons of cool products from photos on canvas, to purses, makeup bags, and netbook covers.  So who are they?  They are  ArtsCow.  What are you waiting for? Head on over, and get your free prints!

Allow Us To Introduce Ourselves

     We are Jennifer and Mackenzie, and we love to craft and save.  This blog will be a how-to on saving, shopping, rebating, crafting, and so much more.  I hope you will enjoy the posts, and check back often, as we will always be working on some project, or telling you where to find the steal of the century!