I want to be one of those women who, through the cunning use of coupons, sales and rebates, walk out of the supermarket with $240 in groceries for 42 cents. I am neither motivated enough nor do I have enough time to do that much planning. I do use a discount food program, Angel Food Ministries, for most of our meat. I shop at Aldi for all our canned, boxed and pantry staple foods. I fill in the rest with Walmart, deals at other stores, the farmers market and the Oriental Market. Sometimes, though, I come across a coupon that puts all my thriftiness to shame.

Earlier this week I decided to peruse the wine section thinking maybe I’d buy something other than my usual plonk in a box. I didn’t, but I did come across a fantastic coupon. It was offered by Ecco Domani. The coupon was for one dollar off any fresh produce purchase of one dollar or more, purchase of wine not required. With my dollar off coupons I bought two huge Gala apples for 22 cents and four small zucchini for 39 cents. I made Michael a huge 13 x 9 pan of ZOA bars.

I received a coupon as a tip this week. I helped a nice couple who had coupons for free bottles of Tide laundry detergent. The wife said, “You are so quick and efficient. The next time I come in I’m going to bring you some coupons.” I finished their transaction and sent them on their way. A minute later the husband came running back and handed me a coupon. It was good for one free 100 ounce bottle of Tide. At the store I work at that equates a $6.97 value.I’ll take a seven dollar tip even if it’s in the form of laundry soap.