I think I have a gambling problem???

[oscarandme]

Since I started couponing seriously about this time last year, what a year, so much has changed. Newbie is no longer applicable. Newbie scars, space challenges, coupon fiiing issues, Canada Post stamp bills, stationary supplies, scotch tape galore, never emailed so much in my life, PMd, LIKED and just discovered that I had the power to REP all this time, thought you had to reach a certain status to do that. Oye....and now a gambling issue.

I have met so many nice members, exchanged personal stories as you all know and saved so much and have tried to help as much as I could and the math skills have gone from zero to well better and I know I have so much more to learn. My reading coupons is still terrible and still find confusing and there are sooooo many and short expiries and so limiting. I am so thankful for everyones help and I know I write it often but I really do sincerely appreciate everyones' input and holding my hand and others to learning this wonderful world of saving.
I love all the opportunities that are given to us by the manufacturers and the retailers and all but there seems to be so many, so much I stand in front of some isles sometimes going, where am I, what do they take, what are their rules, do they have a coupon, is it worth Price Matching? Where did I see that on sale? was it this format 12 single rolls, 12 double rolls or do I need to buy gum with it to get this discount?

But now with Price Matching and Target and Walmart new policy and other stores trying to step-up thieir games, the rules are forever changing, for the better but I cannot help but feel overwhemed with it all.

For a few days now SC members have kindly shared the RCSS sale on batteries and I have relayed a few times this information to DH and all of a sudden tonight a few hours before closing and end of no tax at RCSS a light bulb moment, So he decided to call to see if one of the Targets that opened a few months ago would PM the 50% off batteries and much to my amazement they said yes.. I said are you sure you called the right one because this one is so strict and I do not see them approving this..he said yes let'sgo..in the blizzard off we go..so still learding again at Target and I have been under the weather for a while now and tonight -no information was sticking, just sliding right down off of me..

So we get various batteries, have the RCSS flyer in hand, have the names of people that approved this and get to the cash -oh I forgot to mention the staff in the electronics department and DH noticed some discrpencies in the tags.

So we explain Price Match from RCSS, we spoke to (names) here and we have those 3.00 Target MAX coupons and we have a few 3.00 off 2 Manufacture coupons so DH is almost doing cartwheels to the cash screaming, free=free=free and he was unaware of no SCOP at Target and me not feeling well -(the sliding thing)...the PM and their coupon first blah-blah-blah)...not registering...so I am standing and breathing basicaly and that is a challenge in itself. So the cashier starts to process, 8.49 for 8 pack of something and the tag said 4.99 of DH has SCOP just waiting to roll...Then he is informed even though I told him several times they do not subscribeto SCOP well that was not pleasant to watch him listen to that bit of information... then working out the details...so they gave the first at 4.99 and so the 3.00 coupon and he wasn't sure if he wanted to save the 3.00 on 2 manufacture coupon for RCSS to make them even cheaper...so I am still unclear on how it all worked out for him at the cash, I walked away and went and breathed somewhere else. It was giving more of a headache..so as I am sitting here I am still wondering at Target is it worth Price Matching and how do you approach this?

This is where the gambing comes in with all the new policies and the learning the cash register at Target and is your Walmart one of the ones that takes Coupon Zone coupons or not, competitor coupons, do they PM Nationwide or not or not or take their own coupons off first and if the price of something is lower than something you pay as much as if you had no coupon??????? - Why should we have to know if they are franchised or on board? It's like buying a car and the dealership decides if the engine is optionalnot Head Office? Is it getting ridiculous to anyone else? Doesn't Head Office mean anything anymore? I am using so much of my brain on these issues to save money it's not even funny. Don't get me started on all the questions about Shoppers Drug Mart that we are all still asking about. I think we all know more about their policies than their staff all put together. Again I appreciate and am learning to play the "game" but it seems to be getting ridiculous. I never put so much thought into shopping in my life. Where are the good old days when you were close to an IGA and needed some bread and just went in and got it, shouldn't couponing while doing that be that easy? Now you have to gamble with the policies, case out the cashier, past experience with the store and its' employees? properly stocked shelves past experience, sales periods starting on different days, points systems, paying for bags. This has to be easier??? don't you think?

Just getting back to Target...so my situation 50 % Price Match...
so is this right???

1. Batteries at 8.49
2. Take off Target coupon First 3.00
2.5 If I had used the 3.00 on 2 manufacture coupon (apply here right?)
3. So here is where they give me the surprise total...that if the PM is more?????

It is easier if you have Target coupons and Manufacture coupons for items that you want preferaby on sale in their store but if I want their coupons for something I want at someone elses' price, this is where it gets all fuzzy.

I only bought a few things at Target so far was the cat litter (1 Target coupon) several times and the cheese (1 catalina and 1 manufacture coupon used) several times and the pets coats(straight purchases that were on clearance) so this above scenario??? might not always be a good deal right? So still a big time learner at Target.

I should maybe explain that my title line is meant to say that with all the policies and everything surrounding couponing, it is a gamble to walk up to the cash and see if it will go through the way I thought it should.

[Redneck Charger]

I've been in Target once, I don't know what all the hype was.. I found it to be upgrade of Walmart.. I questioned myself quite often while in, and that was do they own one another.. I found them a little higher price on some stuff.. Between the two, I would take Walmart.. but that is me.. and I know I didn't answer any of your questions..

[Shwa Girl]

Hey oscarandme, I like your gambling problem!!
Here's why:
1. Gambling with a lottery ticket to win big = fail!
2. Gambling at Casino Rama = the house wins!

But,
1. Using coupons and matching the coupon policy and using Target double coupons (Target coupon + manufacturer coupon) is a win.
2. Winning with Shoppers points on bonus redemption days is a win.
3. Using PC Plus points with a sale and no tax day is a triple win.
When I gamble, I like the odds in my favour. So, yes, I have a gambling problem too!

[Durham Couponer]

Target seems to be hit and miss at some locations with price matching, their coupons and MF coupons. Their policies are inconsistent from one store to the next. Gambling is worth it IF you will be buying the product anyway, and it will cost you more in gas to go to another store than only PMing and using a MF coupon IMHO.

Your scenario (quote):

Just getting back to Target...so my situation 50 % Price Match...
so is this right???

1. Batteries at 8.49
2. Take off Target coupon First 3.00
2.5 If I had used the 3.00 on 2 manufacture coupon (apply here right?)
3. So here is where they give me the surprise total...that if the PM is more?????

They didn't do it right. The Target coupon should be first, then the price match, then the MF coupon.

Batteries: shelf price $8.49
- $3 Target coupon
= $5.49
// Price match - Target coupon
= PM'd & TE couponed price
- MF coupon
= total.

But if the shelf price was $4.99 and you had both a Target and MF coupon they should have honoured the shelf price (and bless your husband for standing up for SCOP even though it doesn't apply LOL) and you should have had the batteries for free. They would have reduced the Target coupon first, as far as zero, until both coupons totaled $4.99.


Some here will disagree with me. This is how I read the coupon policy, and this is how my storeS (yes, plural) have always applied it. Some stores disagree.

And coupons & price matching are always a gamble. One cranky cashier or ignorant CSM can destroy your whole 90 minute shopping trip. Sure, it's easier to just go to your fav store and pay the shelf price for what you need and want, but knowing what could and usually should be happening with coupons, is it worth the effort? Maybe we're really adrenaline junkies hiding behind little printed slips of paper, who knows. You're not alone It's OK to take a break from deals when you're sick and run down and just trying to keep your spirits up in the holidays. You can go back to hard core saving in the new year if you need a break to recoup and enjoy time with your family and friends. There's no rule that says we have to coupon hunt & PM 365/24/7.

[coupon girl]

hey Oscar I love the gambling problem too -listen I am still learning thing s too its hard to keep up -I went to price match at walmart the other day (mini-wheats cereal for 2.99 and went to use a buy 3 save 3.00 coupon zone cpn) nope you cat dint now hat but I still price matched bought them-so I have gambled (with coupons)for over 20 some odd years and will never tire of it

[oscarandme]

I know what you mean in a way, it is like I need to shop before going to Target to try to fit it in their world and then see what happens at the cash...I don't know if it is worth it. I love the coupons and the finds that other members share and I know it will be hassle free like the Maxx Cat Litter. One coupon (well that was my scenario, their 3.00 Target coupon) and PM and pay...X 4 and I knew what to expect, actually the register amounts were not always the same as I think about it now)... I do ove some of their end tables and housewares that we do not have here at every second store you see but I am still waiting for the Target door to open and I am a Tergeteer BFF. As a few seasoned members menitoned the Clearance Priced items are the ones to watch out for but even then I still do not feel confident as I go to the cash and having coupons if I am still saving. Hence gambling. I want to believe. I wanna, I wanna. Thank you for sharing Redneck Charger.

I've been in Target once, I don't know what all the hype was.. I found it to be upgrade of Walmart.. I questioned myself quite often while in, and that was do they own one another.. I found them a little higher price on some stuff.. Between the two, I would take Walmart.. but that is me.. and I know I didn't answer any of your questions..

[oscarandme]

You're so cute Shwa Girl!

When you put it that way. We work hard at our titles though. Glad to know I am in good company.

Thank you for your pearls on gambling and the gambling is definately on for 2015. Bring it on retail !!!!! we SCers are ready to roll, sick or not we're rollin' those dice.

Hey oscarandme, I like your gambling problem!!
Here's why:
1. Gambling with a lottery ticket to win big = fail!
2. Gambling at Casino Rama = the house wins!

But,
1. Using coupons and matching the coupon policy and using Target double coupons (Target coupon + manufacturer coupon) is a win.
2. Winning with Shoppers points on bonus redemption days is a win.
3. Using PC Plus points with a sale and no tax day is a triple win.
When I gamble, I like the odds in my favour. So, yes, I have a gambling problem too!

[oscarandme]

Durham Couponer!!!

I wish I had your intelligence to reading policies and knowing what you are talking about. You make it seem so simple when you write it.

I will read your reply to DH when he returns from Loblaws and I will re-read when I am lucid again. I wish I could bring you with me like Cyrano de Bergerack (spell) and I can speak your words when being challenged then I woud know what to do.

Also went to WM after Target last night, big mistake...would not accept Nivea coupon because the item was not in the photo. I could have spent the holidays in a jail cell but I opted not to and said to DH, not a problem let's just pay what we owe and mosey.

Sometimes... I give up...for now. Thank you for the kind words and understanding. I knew my SC family members would understand and someday this will all make sense and be easier and we can all ride off into the sunset with our Target bags hand in hand. (Yeah right)....

thank you so much for the advice and 2015 we'll be gambling pros. Happy Holidays...

Target seems to be hit and miss at some locations with price matching, their coupons and MF coupons. Their policies are inconsistent from one store to the next. Gambling is worth it IF you will be buying the product anyway, and it will cost you more in gas to go to another store than only PMing and using a MF coupon IMHO.

Your scenario (quote):

Just getting back to Target...so my situation 50 % Price Match...
so is this right???

1. Batteries at 8.49
2. Take off Target coupon First 3.00
2.5 If I had used the 3.00 on 2 manufacture coupon (apply here right?)
3. So here is where they give me the surprise total...that if the PM is more?????

They didn't do it right. The Target coupon should be first, then the price match, then the MF coupon.

Batteries: shelf price $8.49
- $3 Target coupon
= $5.49
// Price match - Target coupon
= PM'd & TE couponed price
- MF coupon
= total.

But if the shelf price was $4.99 and you had both a Target and MF coupon they should have honoured the shelf price (and bless your husband for standing up for SCOP even though it doesn't apply LOL) and you should have had the batteries for free. They would have reduced the Target coupon first, as far as zero, until both coupons totaled $4.99.


Some here will disagree with me. This is how I read the coupon policy, and this is how my storeS (yes, plural) have always applied it. Some stores disagree.

And coupons & price matching are always a gamble. One cranky cashier or ignorant CSM can destroy your whole 90 minute shopping trip. Sure, it's easier to just go to your fav store and pay the shelf price for what you need and want, but knowing what could and usually should be happening with coupons, is it worth the effort? Maybe we're really adrenaline junkies hiding behind little printed slips of paper, who knows. You're not alone It's OK to take a break from deals when you're sick and run down and just trying to keep your spirits up in the holidays. You can go back to hard core saving in the new year if you need a break to recoup and enjoy time with your family and friends. There's no rule that says we have to coupon hunt & PM 365/24/7.

[Judyhill]

So sorry to hear you were having a hard time. I can remember a time not too long ago that I was going through the same thing. It all just didn't seem to be worth it. I eased back for awhile. I can remember too, that I was talking to you and I told you I was just feeling burned out. I remember you telling me that you got like that sometimes too. You also told me you would perk right up again when you found a new coupon or something and you would be right back again.

I so clearly remember you telling me that and I will not forget it cause I have experienced that a few times since and every time I do, I think of you. I think sometimes we put too much pressure on ourselves to keep doing more and keep doing better til it gets to the point it is not fun anymore.

My suggestion would be to do what Durham Couponer said; take a break from from it for awhile especially if you are not feeling well. This couponing, price matching and all that stuff can get hard on the head after awhile. Also the holidays almost upon us, just take the time to enjoy every second of it. I can bet after a break for awhile a coupon or a deal will come up that will get you all excited and you will be on a roll again.

Take care of yourself and I hope you get feeling better.

[Anna Michele]

oh Oscar you are the sweetest little thing
I am also still trying to make sense of the whole target thingy, hALF THE TIME THEY DON'T HAVE WHAT I WANT IN STOCK TO PM O MEAT NO VEG ETC. SO I STAY AWAY (sorry hits the caps) unless I am going for something in the flyer
my store seems to always have problem with their target coupons scanning and if they dont scan then they apply them manually as a manufacturer this in turn allows for the pm and other manufacturer coupon to be applied as well its really a silly system

target coupon
pm
manufacturer coupon

cauz if the pm would generally bring the total back up to more than the price - the target coupon
really ridiculous policy

stay calm and keep on lol

but i too have put the reigns down till the new year (waiting for new coupons) plus th efact that i'm broke lol but mostly for my sanity unless there is asoemthing I need want I plan on waiting

my christmas shopping for hte most part is done

gotta got to target to get their cadbury 5 for $5 choc bars to make candy cane sled for the teachers at school I may add a tims card too but there are so many teachers its crazy they are only in grades 2 and jk lol

anyway enjoy the holiday with your lovely little family and more importantly don't tress the small stuff we are always here to help you sort it all otu
take care

[jasperandchar]

great job on all you have achieved this year, sounds like you need to take care of yourself and let the deals take a backseat.

[DogMama]

Yep, time to take a break and enjoy the Holidays!

[oscarandme]

Dear sweetie Judy!

It is true, we did have this conversation. Thank you for reminding me and I will take a step back. I hope things get easier. I am a team player but not a good fighter. Maybe Santa will bring me some wisdom and more patience. Thank you for the kind words and well wishes and you are so sweet. We are so lucky to have you here Judy. (hugs)..

So sorry to hear you were having a hard time. I can remember a time not too long ago that I was going through the same thing. It all just didn't seem to be worth it. I eased back for awhile. I can remember too, that I was talking to you and I told you I was just feeling burned out. I remember you telling me that you got like that sometimes too. You also told me you would perk right up again when you found a new coupon or something and you would be right back again.

I so clearly remember you telling me that and I will not forget it cause I have experienced that a few times since and every time I do, I think of you. I think sometimes we put too much pressure on ourselves to keep doing more and keep doing better til it gets to the point it is not fun anymore.

My suggestion would be to do what Durham Couponer said; take a break from from it for awhile especially if you are not feeling well. This couponing, price matching and all that stuff can get hard on the head after awhile. Also the holidays almost upon us, just take the time to enjoy every second of it. I can bet after a break for awhile a coupon or a deal will come up that will get you all excited and you will be on a roll again.

Take care of yourself and I hope you get feeling better.

[oscarandme]

Oh Anna Michele!

Always so kind and sweet. I am glad to hear not the only one going through this but also wish you didn't have to because you have enough on your plate with your little family and all. You are so sweet -I know I can always count on you and you have always been there for support since I joined SC. Thank you for the kind words and hope your Cadbury trip to Target went well. Take care little one. You are so good to me. Thank you.

oh Oscar you are the sweetest little thing
I am also still trying to make sense of the whole target thingy, hALF THE TIME THEY DON'T HAVE WHAT I WANT IN STOCK TO PM O MEAT NO VEG ETC. SO I STAY AWAY (sorry hits the caps) unless I am going for something in the flyer
my store seems to always have problem with their target coupons scanning and if they dont scan then they apply them manually as a manufacturer this in turn allows for the pm and other manufacturer coupon to be applied as well its really a silly system

target coupon
pm
manufacturer coupon

cauz if the pm would generally bring the total back up to more than the price - the target coupon
really ridiculous policy

stay calm and keep on lol

but i too have put the reigns down till the new year (waiting for new coupons) plus th efact that i'm broke lol but mostly for my sanity unless there is asoemthing I need want I plan on waiting

my christmas shopping for hte most part is done

gotta got to target to get their cadbury 5 for $5 choc bars to make candy cane sled for the teachers at school I may add a tims card too but there are so many teachers its crazy they are only in grades 2 and jk lol

anyway enjoy the holiday with your lovely little family and more importantly don't tress the small stuff we are always here to help you sort it all otu
take care

[Momof3girlies]

I hope you're feeling better soon. *HUGS*