I recently received an opportunity to review a few products from TheraBreath, a company whom makes products aimed specifically at helping consumers who are dealing with bad breath. For the past five years I have been dealing with morning breath and dry mouth, but have never asked or shopped around out of embarrassment. I was thrilled to review the mouthwash, toothpaste, and lozenges.
The products arrived quickly and included information about the causes and culprits of bad breath which I found very intriguing. Also, all of their products are all natural! In addition to bad breath, I learned that TheraBreath products actually do much more in assisting with maintaining oral health by preventing other problems such as canker sores, also known as mouth ulcers. If you suffer from these, I highly recommend reading more here: http://www.therabreath.com/cankersores/
I began using the products that night following the same routine for the last 7 days;
Brushing my teeth, roof of my mouth, tongue, and inside of my cheeks using the TheraBreath toothpaste. Followed my soaking my dental floss in TheraBreath mouthwash for 60 seconds, flossing, and then rinsing with the mouthwash.
In between, I used the TheraBreath Mouth Wetting Lozenges. These come individually wrapped making them super convenient for us busy mummies or anyone looking o freshen up their breath while out and about.
Over the last week I have noticed several changes beginning with the first use of the TheraBreath products. First, the mouthwash, being 100% alcohol free, offers a much easier rinsing than those that do contain alcohol and have a stinging sensation. I worried that because I didn't feel anything, that it wasn't doing it's job. I finished the above routine (instructions are included in the box of mouthwash) and crawled into bed.
The next morning, I wake up and head straight to the bathroom to brush my teeth, by habit. I have suffered from morning breath for years and honestly just assumed everyone else did too! I started to pull my hair back, splash water on my face, and then it hits me, my mouth wasn't as dry as normal. I also didn't have that awkward bad taste that always comes along with dry mouth in the morning. Impressive...
The next 7 days really flew by, I noticed slight changes in taste which are no longer occurring, no more morning breath or dry mouth, and the lozenges helped after eating to give me that fresh breath feeling. The color of my tongue also has improved to a healthier pink! I also noticed my teeth were whiter than a week ago which is not a claim made by the company, but hey - works for me!!
Overall, the products work exactly the way they are supposed to and I will continue to use these products from now on. I was very surprised at how easy the whole process was and not having to rush to freshen up my breath before everyone else wakes up has really made my morning more enjoyable. My oral health is very important to me and one of my favorite things about TheraBreath is all of the information made available to you for FREE! I have learned so much during this review, it really has been eye opening. The "The Bad Breath Bible" is a must read and available on their website via a FREE download! Now I just wish I would've tried TheraBreath sooner!
I highly recommend checking out the TheraBreath website http://www.therabreath.com to learn more about their awesome line of products and some surprising facts about oral health. TheraBreath products are available at Walgreens and Walmart, but they also offer online ordering with FREE shipping which I love! It allows you to be discreet and have your products shipped directly to your door. They even offer a 100% guarantee, which they discuss fully on their website. To me, that says it all.
Giveaway Details:
Want to try TheraBreath for yourself? Well, here's your chance! You can receive multiple entries by doing one or all of the following;
1. Like our fan page on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Thrifty-StL-Mummy/232365660128945
2. Follow our blog.
3. Like TheraBreath's fan page on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/TheraBreath/55305439087
4. Follow Thrifty StL Mummy on Twitter: @thriftystlmummy
5. Follow TheraBreath on Twitter: @therabreath
Once you have done one or all of the above, please send us a message or comment so we can verify and give you the proper amount of entries into the giveaway! Products included in this giveaway are the TheraBreath Toothpaste and TheraBreath Oral Rinse, products will be sent directly to you from TheraBreath!
Target deals this week:
Buy 4GB Xbox 360 Kinect Bundle $299.99 get a free $60 Target gift card.
Buy 2 Gas-X or Prevacid $10.49, get a free $5 Target gift card
Buy 5 Febreze items (set & refresh kit or air effects) @ $2.50 ea get $5 Target gift card
CVS Deals this week:
Tide $5.94 - $0.50 MNFC = $5.44
Dawn dish detergent $0.99 - $0.25 MNFC = $0.74
All laundry detergent $3.99 - $1 MNFC = $2.99
Cascade $3.99 - $1 MNFC = $2.99
Febreze fabric freshener $4.99 - $1 MNFC = $3.99
Puffs $0.99 - $0.25 MNFC = $0.74
Oral B sper floss $1.99 - $1 EB - $0.75 MNFC = like $0.24
Metamucil $12.50 - $2 EB - $1 MNFC = like $9.50
St. Joseph aspirin $2 - $2 EB = like FREE
Revita Lens solution $8.99 - $4 EB - $3 MNFC = like $1.99
Walgreens Deals this week:
M&Ms 4/$10 - $5 RR - $1/2 MNFC = like 4/$4
Ajax Cleaner $0.59 SC
Carmex Lip Balm $1.50 - $1.50 RR = like FREE
Crest 3D whitestrips $10 off SC + $7 off MNFC = $17 in savings
B1G1F Softsoap liquid handsoap
Colgate Optic White toothpaste $3.99 - $3 RR - $1 MNFC = like $0.99
Playtex tampons $3.99 - $1 RR = $2.99
Estroven Dietary Supplement $10
- $10 RR = like FREE
Planters Nuts 2/$5 - $1 SC (in 8/28/2011) = 2/$4
Tums $3.99 buy 2 = $6.98 - $2($1 ea) in store coupon - $1/2 MNFC = $3.98
L'Oreal Hair Color $7.99 SC - $2 MNFC 8/21/2011 = $5.99
Buy 40 digital prints get 40 free w/ SC or code 40FREEPRINTS
Grocery deals this week:
Aldi:
Cantaloupe $0.99ea
Red Grapes $1.58 2 lbs
Mangoes $0.49
Sweet corn 4 pk $0.99
Shop n Save:
Land O'frost Wrap kits $5
Tailgate Brats $5
Frick's Boneless Ham Steaks 2/$6
Fresh Express Garden Salads $1
Farmstand baby carrots $1
Eat Smart Vegetable cutlets $1
Bartlett Pears $1 lb
Red or Golden Apples $1 lb
B1G1F MNFC in Shop n Save ad Country Crock side dish - on sale 2/$6 = 2/$3!
Old Orchard Apple Juice cocktails 4/$5
Planters Peanut Butter $1.88 - $0.75 MNFC 8/21/2011 = $1.13
Kellogg's Crunchy nut cereal $2.50 - $0.70 MNFC 8/21/2011 = $1.80
Schnucks
Powerade 10/$6.70 or $0.67ea
Bomb Pops $2ea
Navel Oranges 2/$1
Pictsweet Vegetables 4/$5
After several request, we are changing a few things around on our blog post concerning coupons. Please refer back to this posting anytime you need a refresher course on coupon lingo or the way it is presented in our postings and we will update as needed!
Decoding Coupon Terminology:
MNFC - Manufacturer Coupons
PMNF - Printable Manufacturer Coupon
SC - Store Coupons
PSC - Printable Store Coupons
ISC - Instant Store Coupons
MIR - Mail In Rebate
Textpon - coupons sent via text messages
Store Reward Programs:
CVS Pharmacy offers Extra Bucks on select products in their weekly ads. Use your rewards card (free to sign up at any location) buy products at the lowest advertised price, earn extra bucks, and additional in store printable coupons. Extra Bucks print at checkout and can be used on other purchases in your cart or saved to use at a later shopping trip. Terms to look for in post regarding CVS:
CVS: CVS Pharmacy
EB: Extra Bucks
B1G1F: buy one product get the second one free, always double check the amount of items you may need to buy, example B2G1F and so on.
B1G1H: buy one product get the second one half price
Walgreens offers Register Rewards, buy selected products advertised in weekly ads to earn these, noting only one register reward coupon will print per item selected and can not be used during same visit. They also allow for a multiple number of items to be purchased at the coupon price, limits stated on each store coupon. Terms to look for in future posts:
WAGS - Walgreens
RR - Register Rewards
PhotoC - photo discount codes
Other stores such as Kmart also offer a rewards card they use in conjunction with store coupons, in order to benefit from the store coupons you must apply for a free rewards card similar to CVS.
Target offers store coupons in the Sunday Post Dispatch coupon inserts such as RedPlum or Smart Source, but you can also visit the Target website and print additional coupons.
Store coupons can be combined with manufacturer's coupons, but only one of each per product. Example, you can use 1 Walgreens store coupon + 1 manufacturer's coupon to purchase a bar of soap. This is the best way to buy items whenever possible. Also known as "stacking", the more discounts you can get for one item, the lower the price.
Don't forget to thoroughly read coupon details and check store policies. Some stores only accept MNFC that arrive in mailers and do not accept printed coupons.
How to know which coupons to use on which sales:
Every week Thrifty StL Mummy post "coupon match ups". Post are usually on Saturday or Sunday, include both the early edition and full edition Post Dispatch papers as well as any printable coupons that emerge. In the past, I have only posted deals that matched with that particular week's coupons because I was trying to avoid any confusion on what inserts from what week, but after several request - I will now begin posting coupon scenarios according to their insert dates or if printable, a link next to coupon. Here is an example of what the new coupon scenario will look like:
Hot Dogs $2 - $2 MNFC 4/5/2011 = FREE
or
Hot dogs $2 - $2 PMNF (link) = FREE
I hope in doing this, Thrifty StL Mummy can help score those more EXTREME couponing deals so many have requested!
Although I am far from being an extreme couponer as many of you already know, I do love a great deal, and how you multiply any deals I do post is entirely up to you!
Tips for becoming a more organized shopper:
Make a list! Sounds simple enough, but here are a few things to consider about list making;
1. I always jot down things we need as they run out around the house, keeping a magnetized list on the fridge.
2. I put that list into my phone's memo pad, because I most likely will forget the actual list, the night before heading out to do any shopping.
3. I plan meals according to grocery sales. I make a weekly meal plan and list from there. It saves time & money.
Organizing your coupons is a must! You have to find that groove that works for you though! It's tricky at first, I still get overwhelmed from time to time, but here are my best pointers:
1. Have a binder with some sort of pockets, it can be clear card holders or even just folders with pockets to start. Accordion style coupon holders are a great way to start if you are organizing by coupon type.
2. Decide how to categorize your coupons. By expiration date is good if you don't mind sorting through a stack. Others just divide up according to product types.
3. Sorting coupons prior to a shopping trip is a must. You don't want to miss out on a great deal because you couldn't find that coupon at checkout. Being well prepared makes the whole checkout process smooth and painless. Just know, that extreme couponing or just the necessities couponing all requires some time and planning. In the end its well worth it in the amount of money to be saved!
Try to shop without the kiddos whenever possible. Less distractions will help you stay focused on getting only what you came to get.
Bring your own bags. Most stores in the area do not charge for bags, but a few do. Hopefully one day soon, all area stores will offer discounts if you bring your own bags as well. Until then, better to be prepared and feel good about helping the environment too :)
As more people are turning to couponing as a way to save money, couponing
Hope this guide offers assistance in getting you started and a better understanding of how we explain the weekly deals you love reading about :)
Yesterday I had the privilege of enjoying a "girl's day out" with a great friend and my kiddos (yes one of my kids is a boy, but until he fusses over going out with the girls - i will still consider it a girl's day). We had planned on hitting up some yard sales but the weather in StL wasn't very cooperative! Back up plan - thrift stores!!
Our first stop was to a relatively new shop located next to Burlington Coat Factory, St. Vincent DePaul Thrift Store. This place is huge! Most of their items are organized well and the store staff are very helpful. I found a few goodies, almost bought a huge mirror but decided to wait. Way to early in the day to make a large purchase. We got to the checkout line and spot an outdoor bench being carried through the air to the front, manager says it's $10!! I was about to interrupt and say SOLD - but another shopper had staked their claim. Disappointed :(
We then ventured a little further south and I remember seeing this cute looking boutique that carries women's clothing, sizes ranging from 12 & up. We made a bee line up Kingshighway to Echilberger! The cute boutique is called Panache Plus, specializing in women's plus sized clothing and alterations. Immediately the store window displays draw you in, and then - boutique heaven!! The whole store is adorable, chic, posh, fresh!! Shoes - my shopping addiction - are off to the left along with a wall of purses and some crafty handmade gifts throughout. Several racks of clothing are also smiling at you, and then the kicker! A doorway leading to another area on the left holds a nice surprise - MORE CLOTHES, two dressing rooms, a kids play area, a runway like strutting area with a fabulous mirror, and an entire formal dress area! I was shocked. For the first time I had entered a store that catered to my every need! The kiddos parked it on the playmat while me and my bff shopped our hearts out.
I found four tops (all items are brand names), 1 pair of capris, and a brand new pair of shorts. Then proceeded to score a pair of heels, 3 pairs of adorable earrings, and even a couple of pieces of candy for my amazingly well behaved kids! I spent $49.21, thanks to a few awesome sales going on, and everything I bought probably retailed near the $230 mark. Sweet!! My bff did just as well coming in at $48 :)
Another positive - V.I.P. Discount Card - every time you spend $10 before tax, it earns you a punch on the card. After $100 (ten punches) you earn $10 off your next $25 purchase. Just another great incentive I highly recommend you check out! The store offers a lay-a-way plan, consignment, trendy accessories, jewelry, and handmade gifts.
<3 it!! In case you couldn't tell, my favorite part was just how much fun I had while shopping there. The ambiance of the shop created a highly enjoyable atmosphere, I didn't feel rushed, and there is nothing better than finding clothing in women's sizes at bargain prices!
After our visit to Panache Plus, I had a feeling other resale shops were going to feel like second fiddle. We headed to another church owned thrift store on South Broadway - I apologize but I can't remember the name - it has been open only a few months as well and I didn't find a lot. I did score a super cute purple vase for a buck, kids found a few toys and some vhs tapes that normally I wouldn't buy, but hey, they had been so good! My bff found some retro blue glasses, $0.50 for all of them! Again, it's a hunting game, some days you find the treasure trove and others it's hit and miss.
All in all, an excellent day considering the rain. We ended our day doing something I had never done - I got my eyebrows waxed!! A little off the subject I know, but my bff pushed me to do it, kind of one of those bucket list things, and after such a great bargain hunting day, I figured, why not? I braved it, it hurt, I survived! And my eyebrows look gorgeous now LOL!
Panache Plus
5400 S. Kingshighway
St Louis MO 63109
314-352-3838
http://panacheplusresale.com/Home_Page.html
St. Vincent DePaul Thrift Store
4928 Christy Blvd
St. Louis MO 63116
314-352-4000
call for pick up of donations - 314-881-6006
