Since I have been blogging with Marcia and Charlyne on Shop-O-Matic, I've gotten into strategic shopping (using coupons with sales) so I would know what I'm blogging about. At first I hated it....my time is valuable and sooo limited...we spend a lot of time at work, don't we?

Once I realized just how much I was saving, I jumped into it with both feet. Now it's a game... I look forward to Sundays when the new Walgreens and CVS sales start! (I know, I need to get a life!) Wednesdays and Thursdays are new sale days at Winn-Dixie and Publix. I don't have a KMart, Walmart or Target near me, thank goodness, or I'd never get out.

Would you get a kick out of getting a $12 pack of Huggies diapers for $2? Getting 8 bars of Dove soap or Garnier shampoo for free? Then strategic shopping is for you too.

If you are new to couponing, but want to jump in....I've spelled out my latest CVS shopping spree here, in an attempt to simplify. (Sorry if it's long, there is a lot to learn, but it gets easier as you go.)

DealSeekingMom has a great article on saving on groceries on her website today. Strategic shoppers are planners, you must spend a few minutes 1) browsing weekly ads 2) Combine printable and clipped coupons with sale items. 3) Make a meal plan around the sale items. 4) Avoid impulse buying. 5) Buy in bulk when possible. 6) Shop multiple stores,. and 7) talk to store employees.

Please feel free to use our Coupon Chaos comments section to share your strategic shopping ideas. Find neighbors to trade coupons here. Organize meetings or trading parties. This is your space, use it!!