Coupon Train 1--mom2fussbudgets

[mom2fussbudgets]

Coupon Train 1 Passenger List:

1. mom2fussbudgets--Chris
2. Caryn
3. Kim--animal lover
4. NancyBJ--Nancy
5. mrsn1xcv--Tonya
6. horse-shoos--April

[mom2fussbudgets]

The first envelope of coupons is on its way! I mailed them out this morning, and hopefully, they'll make it to Rebate Queen safely. Let us know, Dawn!

You may notice that I made some changes in the passenger list, and I wanted to let you know why. Two of my passengers live in the same town. In addition, I have passengers living in the same state. I didn't see the point in wasting time by making the envelope go back and forth unnecessarily.

Please post or PM me if you have any questions. :)

[rebate queen]

yeah...We're chuggin along now..I'll post as soon as the train stops here:)

[mom2fussbudgets]

If you don't find your name on my passenger list, go check Liz's! Liz will be getting her train going soon! :)

[LisaRKR]

I can't WAIT to get more fun mail that saves me money! My husband is going to think I have lost my mind! Oh well, he will appreciate all of the effort when we have more money to spend on vacation!!!

[rebate queen]

Hasn't been here yet guys--but I think I hear it. Trains always arrive late in the day here;)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Okay, we need to have a group meeting. I've got three more people interested in the coupon train. As of now, If I add one onto mine and two onto Liz's, we'll each have ten passengers each. Is this too many people? Do we need to start a third one? Feedback please!

[lizmolik]

I think that we should keep the train as it is for now...and if they are still interested in it when the train gets back home...we will add them on. If we keep adding then someone else will want to and then another...and then another. I would just wait til it comes back around for the second time! But...it is just a though! :D

[wendav13]

I think I agree with Liz......lets give it a spin with the initial list first!!

[rebate queen]

I think we should not add any, but there is no limit on how many can be started.
One reason is exactly what I got on here to post--It didn't come today either, so that makes each stop take even longer than I thought it would. Without looking back, I'm pretty sure the train pulled out on Monday.

[mom2fussbudgets]

I'm worried about the trains having too many passengers too. I'm bummed that you didn't get the coupons today, but Jacksonville is kinda off the beaten path. I hope they make it okay.

I've e-mailed unicorn13 and asked her to be a conductor. We'll see what she says!

[Shoppinglizzard]

Could we start a new train? If folks want to be on multiple trains they could, right? I wouldn't mind starting a new one if someone could teach me. I feel that I have enough coupons to do two or more trains. I don't think we want the train to have more than 10 people though. For example, if the train takes 4 days to get to each home and each home keeps the train for 3 days (as in the instructions) that is a week. If we have ten folks that means you will see the train only about 5 times a year. That really isn't much. It may even be more enjoyable to have trains limited to 5 people. Then you'd really get to see the train come around. Mabey seperate trains by region of the country if there was enough interest. Let me know what you guys think.

[mom2fussbudgets]

I'm easy so I'm willing to do what the majority wants to do. Dividing it up into three, then into regions sounds good to me, but I'm not sure how everyone feels about me regrouping everyone all over again.

Sorry 'bout this gals, but I am a newbie at this. I had never even heard of a coupon train before Dawn posted about it.

[LisaRKR]

Well, I think that we should start a new train, and when it gets to 10 people, then start another. I don't remember how many newbies you said want to ride, but I would do this: Post a thread calling all that want to ride.....give it like 5 days, and then start the train. As long as there is new interest, I think trains should be started.

As for the regions, I don't know that I agree with that. Yes, it does let the coupons get there quicker, but on the other hand, wouldn't it be nice to get coupons we don't normally get in our own area? For example, they may be trying to boost sales for Heinz Ketchup on the west coast, so they put $1 coupons in their Sunday Paper, but since it is a big seller on the east coast, they don't have any at all. Does that make sense?

Sorry if that doesn't make sense, it has been a very long day and not ending anytime soon. Someone please let me know. :eek:

[mkrebecca]

I say start new train, I would be on more than one train. I have lots of coupons to give and can always use different ones. I agree with not doing the regions. Mail is pretty quick around here(better in some areas).It would be good to see what coupons are out west. I would think no more than 10 on the train.

[sweetchocolate]

i am agreeable with the decisions of the train captains... and starting another new train is great!... cant wait to sent my coupons.... :p

[Shoppinglizzard]

I do see your point with the regional thing. It will be kinda neat to see what kinds of coupons come from other parts of the country. I do still think 10 is a big number. Aow about 5? or 7? If I start another train I can set the rules, right? So if I propose a train of 5 noone would be upset when I close the train at 5?
I will await feedback before I post my request for train 'passengers'
Thanks guys for your feedback!

[mom2fussbudgets]

Good point, Lisa! See why I need your feedback?

Shoppinglizzard, if you are willing to start a new train, then you have my blessing. I have four people in my PM inbox waiting to join one. PM me and let's get the train rolling, so to speak.

[rebate queen]

Bad news guys--we got one slooowwww moving train. I didn't get it today either:(

[mom2fussbudgets]

Oh no! I hope something didn't happen to it. I was a little worried because it was such a thick envelope. If it doesn't show up, or if it shows up mangled, I'll figure up how much it'll cost us to use a small manila envelope.

[rebate queen]

WAAAAAA WAAAAAA boohoo

still no train--I think I'm gonna go lay on the tracks:(

[wendav13]

WAAAAAA WAAAAAA boohoo

still no train--I think I'm gonna go lay on the tracks:(

lol - we need to get this train moving ~ I have LOOOTS of coupons!!!!!
Gosh darn snail mail...we are so spoiled with the internet these days!!!! lol

[mom2fussbudgets]

I think something's wrong--it should've been there by now. What do you want to do? I can send out another one, or do we want Dawn to send one out at her end? Sorry ladies!

[mom363546]

If I was you I would give it until Tuesday.Often packages that I ship for ebay go first class and take 5-7 days and I believe can take up to 10 days. I know I'm not on the train and I'm not trying to interfer but I think they will arrive by Tuesday probably Monday.

[mom2fussbudgets]

You may be right, Deb. I've heard of packages taking that long, but never envelopes though. Well, we'll see!

[mom2fussbudgets]

And, you are not interfering. Your comments are always welcome. :)

[rebate queen]

Well, my comment may not be as welcome----and you have to read this country style-------

I thannk arrre cooouupons dun got ranned over by the danged ole train:(

I don't hear the train a comin, comin down the track, I think I skeered that coupon train and it aint never comin back.....

[rebate queen]

OK--so maybe you guys didn't think that last post was funny, just trying to entertain while waiting;)

Guess what ?????

The train arrived today. It had a postage due stamp on it for 32 cents. I guess they put the train in time-out for that.:D

On the more serious side, don't know why they held it up. They never gave me any notice whatsoever that I had an item with postage due. They did not try to collect it today when they delivered the mail,it was just in my box with everything else. Nor does it look like they tried to send it back to mom2fussbudgets. Maybe one of us should call the USPS and ask them???

I will call shoppinglizzard today and see if we can't get this thing back on the tracks fast, but I know she has a busy week. Will post as soon as I find out if she can meet up to save time or if I need to send it to her. If I am mailing it, it will leave this station tomorrow!!!

[zagmom]

It looks like we need to limit the riders to a smaller number as the first person just received the envelope. If we allow 10 days per person those of us on the tail end will need to wait up to three months to receive the envelope.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Dawn, I'm so sorry! I weighed the envelope and went to USPS.com to figure out what the correct postage should be. I sell on eBay all the time, so it's not like I'm a novice at figuring out what postage should be. Weird! Next time, I will simply take it to the Post Office to double check myself.

Hopefully, we'll get all of the bugs worked out soon, and the train will start running more smoothly. However, if you want smaller coupon trains, it's fine with me. We just need more conductors.

[rebate queen]

I don't think it will take very long once we have the kinks worked out--I'm sending it back out right away.

Don't apologize Chris-stuff happens. Who knows if it really is over the weight. Could just be the post offices convenient thing to stamp on there. Maybe it laid on the floor of a truck for a few days, who knows???
The envelope was in good condition--doesn't look like it got hung up in a machine or anything....
The only reason I kept posting so much is so that you all knew I was watching for it--I'm patient--though I was starting to worry that something happened to it.
I think this train will move along just fine now. If it's too long for anyone to wait--they can always jump off this train and start another.
Remember Chris, you did all the work to start this thing up and this is your train. You don't need to apologize to anyone!!!!:)

[rebate queen]

UPDATE

I talked to shoppinglizzard(Elizabeth) by phone, we are meeting in the morning. She is going to take it straight to the post office after that. So...it will already be on to its way to the person after her(Caryn) tomorrow. We made time up real fast!!!!

[mom2fussbudgets]

I don't think it will take very long once we have the kinks worked out--I'm sending it back out right away.

Don't apologize Chris-stuff happens. Who knows if it really is over the weight. Could just be the post offices convenient thing to stamp on there. Maybe it laid on the floor of a truck for a few days, who knows???
The envelope was in good condition--doesn't look like it got hung up in a machine or anything....
The only reason I kept posting so much is so that you all knew I was watching for it--I'm patient--though I was starting to worry that something happened to it.
I think this train will move along just fine now. If it's too long for anyone to wait--they can always jump off this train and start another.
Remember Chris, you did all the work to start this thing up and this is your train. You don't need to apologize to anyone!!!!:)

Thanks, Dawn. I am touched by your post. You are very sweet!

I'm glad you and Elizabeth were able to get the coupon train back out so quickly. WTG, ladies!

[caryn]

Yeah! Now it will be my turn to get excited! I will let you know when it makes it to my box.

[Shoppinglizzard]

Yeaaaaaa.........

I am so excited to go see the train at Rebate Queen's house tomorrow and get it to Caryn! This should be so much fun. For those of you who don't know, I met Rebate Queen on here and we just so happen to live in the same town!! I am going to her home tomorrow to look through the coupon train and get it in the mail. I am hopeful that we can all turn over the train quickly so it has a chance to get around a couple times a year.

Again my thanks goes to mom2fussbudgets. You have been so gracious to get this started and I am so glad you did.

I will double check the postage tomorrow at the post office. It will be in the mail by about 10am so since it is going from North Carolina to Montana I would think that it may take about 5 days to get there. What do you guys think? Hopefully caryn will get it by Monday (?). Either way we are making progress.

[wendav13]

I am so excited (pathetic, I know) but I have so many coupons I am not going to use..I really hope someone else can use them!!! Saving money ~ YEAH!!!!!!!

[wendav13]

One more thing..I haven't read through all of the posts....I'm sorry, but I have been crazy busy...how are we addressing internet coupons ~ the ones we print? Are they a go or a no? I have an email I get every morning to download internet coupons....and I do download them and print them ...but I know not everyone can use them.......waisted weight ~ or a go?

[rebate queen]

I'm thinking that it will get to Caryn before Monday--maybe even by Friday, but my bet is on Saturday at the latest. Since it is going to the post office in the morning, it will be out of state by tomorrow night. Snail mail actually moves pretty quickly. I think we are all just used to waiting for samples, which take a loonnngggg time and packages take a bit too, unless you pay extra, then you see how fast they can really move!!:p

[rebate queen]

One more thing..I haven't read through all of the posts....I'm sorry, but I have been crazy busy...how are we addressing internet coupons ~ the ones we print? Are they a go or a no? I have an email I get every morning to download internet coupons....and I do download them and print them ...but I know not everyone can use them.......waisted weight ~ or a go?


I was going to ask about this too--I was going to include some, because even though most people can print them, you can usually only print one. I was not thinking though about how many people have trouble getting them accepted.
How about a vote??
I know Elizabeth and I can both use them, and it sounds like you can use them Wendy?? What about the rest of you???

Also--if a coupon or coupons for certain types of things aren't getting chosen I will know it. I'm going to be the weeder of unwanted coupons.

And one more thing...I have separated the coupons into categories that are labeled and put them in order of when they expire. This sounds like I'm making it complicated, but it really makes it much easier. When you get it, anything that is getting ready to expire will be right on top. You also will not have to be looking through categories that you may have no interest in.
I am trying to figure out the best option for keeping the categories separated though--as in what weighs the least...

[mom2fussbudgets]

Again my thanks goes to mom2fussbudgets. You have been so gracious to get this started and I am so glad you did.



Thank you, Elizabeth. :D

I say a big yes to Internet coupons. I've never had trouble redeeming them.

Dawn, I really appreciate you sorting through the coupons and separating them into categories and by expiration date. It is something I thought of, but by the time I got to the point where I was actually ready to mail out the coupons, I just couldn't talk myself into doing it. :o

[zagmom]

I did not think about separating the coupons I sent. The next time around I will do that. I have a lot of internet coupons myself that I hope everyone can use as well. I know Walmart accepts them with no problems.

Thanks to all your hard work guys, can't wait to see what coupons are coming this way!

[rebate queen]

I did not think about separating the coupons I sent. The next time around I will do that. I have a lot of internet coupons myself that I hope everyone can use as well. I know Walmart accepts them with no problems.

Thanks to all your hard work guys, can't wait to see what coupons are coming this way!

It sounds like you already sent your coupons??
I might be confused but if you are on the same train as me, it hasn't gotten to you yet.???

Yes, I just went back and checked-you are on this train. If this is the only train you're on, then your passengers left before the train arrived!

[mom2fussbudgets]

Eleece (zagmom) sent some coupons to me to help me out. Thanks Eleece! :)

[Shoppinglizzard]

Hey guys, the train is moving down the track! It is on it's way to you, Caryn.

I do have a concern. The envelope is REALLY close to being considered a parcel and not qualifying for first class postage due to it's thickness. I guess the thickness of an envelope can bump it up to parcel as well as the weight. This is info I learned at the post office when I sent it out. We may want to consider taking the coupons out of their individual category envelopes and just paper clipping them together by category. That would reduce the thickness. Suggestions??

[mom2fussbudgets]

It's your coupon train, so ya'll have to tell me what you want to do. I was hoping we could figure out a way to keep from having to make trips to the Post Office; but if no one minds going, and no one minds spending money on postage, you can do whatever you like. :)

[Shoppinglizzard]

I would like to get this train to the point that we don't have to go to the post office too. I think that should be possible now that we have correct postage on the envelope. We now know that if we added alot more coupons than the way we got them we should add extra postage. If we don't take out the category envelopes we are running the risk of having the envelope surpass the size limit for first class.
I am concerned about being so thick. I think we should paperclip categories together and ditch the inner envelpoes.

I took the envelope to the post office today for two purposes; to get accurate postage since the post office claims we were short the last time it was mailed and also to get it down the road faster.

Any way we can get the envelope moving faster and more efficiently is fine with me. Thanks guys!

[mom2fussbudgets]

When I sent them to Dawn, all I did was put 177 coupons in an envelope and mail it. So yeah, I do think we could do without the inner envelopes. I also think they can be put in categories, and then all lumped together without any paper clips. Paper clips would definitely keep the categories straight though.

Curious--how much did the envelope weigh, and how much did it cost to mail it?

[rebate queen]

I would like to get this train to the point that we don't have to go to the post office too. I think that should be possible now that we have correct postage on the envelope. We now know that if we added alot more coupons than the way we got them we should add extra postage. If we don't take out the category envelopes we are running the risk of having the envelope surpass the size limit for first class.
I am concerned about being so thick. I think we should paperclip categories together and ditch the inner envelpoes.

I took the envelope to the post office today for two purposes; to get accurate postage since the post office claims we were short the last time it was mailed and also to get it down the road faster.

Any way we can get the envelope moving faster and more efficiently is fine with me. Thanks guys!

That is fine with me--taking them out of the envelopes. I had them paperclipped originally and I thought those might weigh more than the envelopes, so I changed it. If thickness is more the concern, paperclipping them might be better. Maybe do without categorizing them altogether--I don't know. See what you guys think.
If we do away with the categories maybe we could at least still keep them in order of when they expire.?
I'm going to do some lurking at some other forums and see how they handle their trains--how long they take from stop to stop, how they send them etc. Maybe that will give us some info also....I was hoping we would be able to make the train a little fatter, but if we're on the verge of parcel already....
You know now that I'm thinking about it more, if the train is going to stay that small, we really don't have to bother with either...
Sorry, I'm brainstorming while writing with the little bit of brain cells that I have left available for the day.....rambling....and the kids are yelling for dinner...and it's 7:30..guess I should feed them:eek:

[mom2fussbudgets]

That is fine with me--taking them out of the envelopes. I had them paperclipped originally and I thought those might weigh more than the envelopes, so I changed it. If thickness is more the concern, paperclipping them might be better. Maybe do without categorizing them altogether--I don't know. See what you guys think.
If we do away with the categories maybe we could at least still keep them in order of when they expire.?
I'm going to do some lurking at some other forums and see how they handle their trains--how long they take from stop to stop, how they send them etc. Maybe that will give us some info also....I was hoping we would be able to make the train a little fatter, but if we're on the verge of parcel already....
You know now that I'm thinking about it more, if the train is going to stay that small, we really don't have to bother with either...
Sorry, I'm brainstorming while writing with the little bit of brain cells that I have left available for the day.....rambling....and the kids are yelling for dinner...and it's 7:30..guess I should feed them:eek:


Good idea, Dawn!

Your kids are very patient. My kids start yelling for dinner the minute they walk in the door from school!

[elliedoom]

I'd be interested in participating, but I'm really not into organizing and categorizing them. How do I join?

[caryn]

Hey guys, I'll look it over and let you know what I think when they get here. Maybe rubber bands will be better than paperclips. And... depending on how much it costs, it might be better to do that one envelope that costs the same no matter what you put in it. I am drawing a blank right now ummm... yeah, it's priority mail, flat envelope rate and I think it's $4.60. I will check into it. It might be cheaper to mail seperate envelopes and then send them on and get more than one in the mail or going, that could help us look forward to more.

[mom2fussbudgets]

ellie, PM Shoppinglizzard with your info. She has room for a couple more members on her train. :)

[mommyof2]

How can I join? I live by my coupons. I wouldn't even dream of going to the store without them. I always have some that I don't use though that I can share.

[rebate queen]

Hey guys, I'll look it over and let you know what I think when they get here. Maybe rubber bands will be better than paperclips. And... depending on how much it costs, it might be better to do that one envelope that costs the same no matter what you put in it. I am drawing a blank right now ummm... yeah, it's priority mail, flat envelope rate and I think it's $4.60. I will check into it. It might be cheaper to mail seperate envelopes and then send them on and get more than one in the mail or going, that could help us look forward to more.

I like the idea of more than one envelope going around--what do you guys think??
I don't think anyone is gonna want to pay $4.60 each time they send it out. That's about all the coupons I got out added up to, and I may not use them all.---but I would like more to choose from, that's why I'm thinking a 2nd envelope might be a good idea? but more than that would get confusing..

[Shoppinglizzard]

Sorry guys. I am trying to find my post office receipt. I remember the total was about $1.40. I don't know the weight but the postman didn't mention that we are close to weight, although we might be.
I'd prefer that we stick to one envelope personally. It would just be easier to keep up with. Using a bigger envelope would decrease the thickness of the envelope since each coupon wouldn't be stacked and shouldn't really increase the weight in itself. You know, one of those small manilla envelopes. About the width of two white envelopes but as short as a regular envelope.
I don't want increase to parcel post. It realy wouldn't be worth it to me to do this and pay almost $5 postage. I don't have a store I can double or triple coupons at.
Please all, contribute to the train. Don't be afraid to add. We could try the bigger envelope and go from there. What do you guys think? I just don't want people to now be afraid to add to the train in addition to what they get out for fear of increasing postage.

[mom2fussbudgets]

What kind of envelope did you use?

I think spending several dollars on postage defeats the purpose of the train. I also think we should decide on a weight limit, count the number of coupons involved, figure out how much postage we'll need for the number of coupons, and then stick to it.

Here are the First-Class mail rates


First-Class Mail

Retail Letters AND CARDS (letter, business-sized envelopes)

Weight
Not Over

(ounces)
Single-Piece 1

1
$0.41

2
0.58

3
0.75

3.5
0.92



First-Class Mail

retail Flats (manila envelopes)




Weight
Not Over

(ounces)1
Single-Piece

1
$0.80

2
0.97

3
1.14

4
1.31

5
1.48

6
1.65

7
1.82

8
1.99

9
2.16

10
2.33

11
2.50

12
2.67

13
2.84

[mom2fussbudgets]

How can I join? I live by my coupons. I wouldn't even dream of going to the store without them. I always have some that I don't use though that I can share.

PM one of the conductors your name and address.

[LisaRKR]

What kind of envelope did you use?

I think spending several dollars on postage defeats the purpose of the train. I also think we should decide on a weight limit, count the number of coupons involved, figure out how much postage we'll need for the number of coupons, and then stick to it.



I don't really think that counting the coupons is going to work. Many are different lengths, different paper weight, etc. so my 200 coupons may be 2 oz. yet yours are 3.1 oz. I like the idea of only using one envelope, a small manila one, and no paperclips or rubber bands or extra envelopes. I don't think that it is really necessary to sort them into groups of any kind. I believe that everyone here is responsible enough to sort through them and pitch the expired ones. I also think that it takes way too much time to try and figure out which coupon goes into what pile. Also, I agree that it would be best if everyone uses the small manila envelope.

I think that we are trying to make this into rocket science and that defeats the whole purpose. It should be fun, save you some money, and maybe get to know each other better, (hopefully):).

Just my 2 cents. Comments?

[Shoppinglizzard]

I do agree that we are getting a bit technical.

I used a business sized envelope. Although I don't know the weight , it must have been more than 3.5 oz cause it cost about $1.40 to send. If you notice the price differences for a small manilla envelope it really isn't that much more plus it will allow us to have more coupons on the train since the envelope will be wider, therefore not as thick. Remember the thickness was the issue.
I don't mind paying around $2 for postage. I think that is fair as long as we have a wide variety to chose from. Remember, also that this train will probably only come around a couple times a year anyway.

Hopefully Caryn will get the train today but my guess is that it will come tomorrow.
Gotta get the kids dressed for school. Ya'll have a good day and I will check back here this evening.

[mom2fussbudgets]

I don't really think that counting the coupons is going to work. Many are different lengths, different paper weight, etc. so my 200 coupons may be 2 oz. yet yours are 3.1 oz. I like the idea of only using one envelope, a small manila one, and no paperclips or rubber bands or extra envelopes. I don't think that it is really necessary to sort them into groups of any kind. I believe that everyone here is responsible enough to sort through them and pitch the expired ones. I also think that it takes way too much time to try and figure out which coupon goes into what pile. Also, I agree that it would be best if everyone uses the small manila envelope.

I think that we are trying to make this into rocket science and that defeats the whole purpose. It should be fun, save you some money, and maybe get to know each other better, (hopefully):).

Just my 2 cents. Comments?

You may be right about counting the coupons, Lisa. I am used to figuring out postage for packages, and with a package, there can actually be quite a bit of leeway.

Okay, so we are going to use a small manila envelope, not worry about counting the coupons, and simply take it to the Post Office for postage each time?

Sorry if I got too technical. I was simply trying to make things easy for everyone.

[zagmom]

I also think we should stay with the #10 envelope. I think if we weed out the coupons close to expiration and maybe save the ones with the latest expiration that should keep the envelope within postage limits.

Here is an idea, if you want to keep the coupons separated maybe instead of paper clips you can use a post it note (just the sticky top part) and fold it over the groups, that way there is no extra weight and will keep the paper clip from poking a hole in the envelope.

[LisaRKR]

You may be right about counting the coupons, Lisa. I am used to figuring out postage for packages, and with a package, there can actually be quite a bit of leeway.

Okay, so we are going to use a small manila envelope, not worry about counting the coupons, and simply take it to the Post Office for postage each time?

Sorry if I got too technical. I was simply trying to make things easy for everyone.


NO need to be sorry.........heck, we are all figuring this out together! Actually, your hard work is appreciated much more than you know!:) And you are right about the packages having a little more leeway......the post office has become a real pain! lol

[rebate queen]

mom2fussbudgets--please make sure you don't drive yourself crazy trying to make everyone on this train happy. I don't really care how we do it, I just want a sane person driving this thing;)

[mom363546]

The new postage rates are no fun.I find myself over charging or under charging all the time. a couple weeks ago I shipped a package to france according to click n ship it was $16.00 They paid that. When I shipped it it shipped for $7.60.Yes the profit was nice but I felt bad cuz that was way off. sometimes it goes the other way. I'm hoping to catch on before long.

If I remember right an envelope has to fit through a tiny mail slot now.If it can't it changes rate.I also believe even if it is flat it has to be under a certain size.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Deb, thanks for telling us that. I've not been selling on eBay that much lately, so I didn't realize the Post Office had made so many changes. I knew the rates had changed, of course.

You guys have all been so great! I'm glad we don't have anyone grumpy on our train. :):)

[rebate queen]

I was hoping that we heard from Caryn yesterday.....

[caryn]

Hey all, the coupon train arrived.... I was out of town yesterday so I did not get the mail until this morning. It was here. I was hoping it would come Friday, but it did not. I have gone through the coupons and it will be in the mail tomorrow. I still haven't decided for sure how I will send it. It will be pulling out of the station tomorrow during my lunch break!

[rebate queen]

:D Great!! That means it only took 4 days to go halfway across the country!! That is what I figured it would be more like--3 to 4 days. At the rate that we are sending it back out, it will take less than a week per person!!:)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Thanks for letting us know, Caryn! :)

[Shoppinglizzard]

Hey guys. I found my Post Office receipt. The weight was 4.40 oz.

Mom363546 is right. When the postman was explaining the changes to me he showed me their size chart. It is basically a cardboard thing with two cut outs. The package has to fit through the small hole to be a first class. If it is thicker than that it is Parcel. The size of the envelope itself is on the scale they put your envelope on to weigh it. There is a template drawn on the scale for them to go by. The small manilla envelope would stil fit on that template.

I went on the USPS website. Based on the zip code I sent the train to we could send up to 13 oz for only $2.84, as long as the thickness does not exceed 1/4". That should be possible with a small manilla envelope. I would say I sent about 100 or so coupons with the standard envelope and we almost are over 1/4" thickness. Think about it, if I sent 100 coupons for 4.4 oz guess how many coupons we could get for 13oz!!! We have to be concerned about thickness, not so much weight. That is why I propose we use a small manilla envelope. Can we all agree to that?

I put a lot of coupons in that envelope and I just don't want to see people fear adding to our coupon pool due to postage. If we use a thin (not padded) small manilla envelope we should still have the freedom to add to the train without increasing our thickness. These envelopes are really cheap at Wal Mart (around $0.50). Let me know what you guys think.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Liz, I really appreciate your post! I had no idea the thickness of the envelope mattered, I thought it was all based on weight. Why'd they have to go and make it all so complicated? :mad:

I'm fine with sending the coupons in a small manila envelope. The Post Office has those self-service machines now, which cuts out standing in line. I can just stop by on my way home from the gym.

[Shoppinglizzard]

Your post office must be way more high tech than ours!! We don't have manilla envelopes in our vending machines here. How will you do postage? Do you have a postage scale?

[mom363546]

we don't either! My sis lives in florida she talks about these machines. I get tickled my post office just went from the old fashion huge scale to a digital when the new postage went into effect. She also still uses a small counter scale for first class letters.We're a little behind the times around here! lol

[rebate queen]

just had to add a comment--there were over 200 coupons in the envelope--it started with 177 and when it was sent to me on the first stop shoppinglizzard and I both put in more than we took out--not saying this to be nitpicky--I just didn't want anyone to think we took out almost 100 coupons without replacing them:)

[mom2fussbudgets]

My Post Office doesn't have manila envelopes in their vending machines. I will have to buy those at Walmart like you! I am talking about the Automated Postal Centers:

Automated Postal Center (APC)
This self-service kiosk allows customers to buy stamps or mail letters and packages in a self-service environment. This equipment is often located in the postal lobby with 24-hour customer access. Automated Postal Centers support up to 85 percent of all possible retail transactions, including the purchase of additional services such as Delivery Confirmation™. Customers can purchase stamps or mail letters and parcels using debit or EBT credit cards.

I will still have to go to the Post Office, but I won't have to stand in line. My darn Post Office always has a line out the door, and I hate going there. Thank goodness we can print our postage online. Yes, I do have my own postal scales. When you sell on eBay, they are pretty much a necessity. But, I goofed last time with the postage, so I will just stop by the Post Office from now on in order to mail the coupon train.

[Shoppinglizzard]

Thanks, Rebate Queen, for the numbers on how many coupons we sent out. I couldn't remember but knew it was over 100. WOW, we almost had 200!!

I sell on Ebay also mom2fussbudgets, only seasonally as my kids outgrow their clothes. I have a postage scale too but I am not so trusting of it. I will probably base postage on how much I add above and beyond what I replace. If I add a bunch more coupons I will probably take the train to the post office.

Gosh, the train just left my house and I already miss it!! :(

[mom2fussbudgets]

I know! I'm already ready for it to come back to the station!

I've compared the weight of my scales with the one at the Automated Postal Center, so I know mine are accurate. :) Do you have the Automated Postal Centers? They are handy as heck!

[caryn]

A small manilla sized envelope with all of the other envelopes still in it left Joplin, MO today at 11:44 p.m. It cost me $1.48 to mail it. The same as S.L. paid to send it to me. I did not count the coupons. I took out the was that would expire in the next 15 days and added some and took a couple. Not as much there as I had hoped for. I did do a little more rearranging as some were in front that had expiration dates of Dec 08 so I moved them to the back right infront of the no expiration date ones. Anyhow, it's on it's wasy to PA and Wendy! Hope you get it by the weekend!:D

[rebate queen]

Not as much there as I had hoped for.

Exactly why I was bummed about having to keep it at that weight......

I think the contents will get better though, when it gets back to me, I will weed out the ones that went through all passengers and were not chosen. As I see trends about certain "unwanted" coupons, I can post about this so that type won't get added....

Also, what do the rest of you think about only taking out coupons that expire in the next 5 days instead of 15. I would hate to throw away coupons that the next person could use......

Thanks Caryn for your input:)

[LisaRKR]

Count me in as yeses to the small manila envelope and only 5 days.........ya never know who might just be waiting for that coupon and going that night or the next day.

Also, it seems that the coupon number keep going down, and as above, I don't mean to be picky, snide, or rude, I just hope that everyone remembers that you should replace the coupons that you take, and I think even more are better. :)

[rebate queen]

Hi guys!!
I need to see if the passenger at the next train stop would please label the train with the conducters name. We are now going on a 5th train with some people on several trains. This would help avoid possible train wrecks in the future. Thanks:)

[Shoppinglizzard]

Please tell me that there is close to 200 coupons. I don't think there should have been too many within 15 days of expiring. I am sure there were a number but hopefully it didn't cut the train down much.
Were you disppointed at the quality of coupons or the quantity?

By usnig the small manilla envelope did it reduce the thickness of the envelope?

I agree that we should all put above and beyond what we take out in this first travel. I bet I put 50 coupons in there.

I 100% agree to not take out coupons till they are within 5 days of expiring. I am one of those who will stop at the store if the coupon is good enough. Secondly tehre shouldn't be a great deal of coupons that are that close to expiring so postage won't be affected if they are expired by the time they get to the next person.

One more question. Should we take out coupons after one pass around or two? I may be more selective the first time around but if I see a coupon the second time around I may be more inclined to take it.

Did you guys see my post about my Harris Teeter trip this weekend? WOW!!

[wendav13]

Dawn ~ that's me! I'll put the conductor's name on the envelope!!
Hi guys!!
I need to see if the passenger at the next train stop would please label the train with the conducters name. We are now going on a 5th train with some people on several trains. This would help avoid possible train wrecks in the future. Thanks:)

[zagmom]

What stop are we at?

[mom2fussbudgets]

The coupon train is on its way to Wendy aka as wendav13.

[Shoppinglizzard]

Does this rebate only work if I but the items through this web site?

[wenclo]

how do i join u guys

[mbpnursy]

I was gone for a wk., busy working 40hrs +, on line classes, + internship, plus house work, etc. Please add me.
Thanks.

[wendav13]

Mine came in on saturday.....didn't take out any soon to be expired (they were all at least 10/7) I removed about 8... and added about 50! will be on its way to the next stop tomorrow!! Enjoy!! Happy savings!!!

[wendav13]

Dawn ~ that's me! I'll put the conductor's name on the envelope!!
I forgot...I'm sorry:(

[mom2fussbudgets]

It'll be okay!

Any word from koi? I wonder if she's received the coupon train yet?

[mom2fussbudgets]

koi received the coupon train! I believe it's going out again tomorrow. :)

[VanillaBean]

Where is the train now? Or headed to? It has been quiet.

[rebate queen]

Where is the train now? Or headed to? It has been quiet.

uofiharvey, has the train pulled into your station yet??

[mom2fussbudgets]

I've noticed that my thread is quiet!

Does anyone think we should re-arrange the passenger list geographically? Do you think that would help the train move along faster?

[VanillaBean]

I know I am the caboose- and I know I am waiting with hoards of coupons!!!

[Shoppinglizzard]

I have my train listed geographically. It has been said that you may not have a variety of coupons if manufacturers target coupons by location also but it has made my train move fairly quickly and to me that is as much a priority as good coupons. I think either way is fine though.

[uofiharvey]

It got here today! I will try to get it out tomorrow, but it is a home football game (which I'm going to, and am leaving at 4:30am). Otherwise it will be going out first thing on Monday. I know everyone is anxious to see it, so I will be quick to get it back out!

Happy Weekend!

[mom2fussbudgets]

Thanks for letting us know! And, enjoy the game!

I don't want to make my train a geographical one, what I meant was, should we rearrange the train. For example, I live in OK, and I have a passenger in MO, and a passenger in TX. Perhaps I should have sent it to the people nearest me first instead of sending it all the way across country to RQ first. Does that make sense?

[rebate queen]

Thanks for letting us know! And, enjoy the game!

I don't want to make my train a geographical one, what I meant was, should we rearrange the train. For example, I live in OK, and I have a passenger in MO, and a passenger in TX. Perhaps I should have sent it to the people nearest me first instead of sending it all the way across country to RQ first. Does that make sense?

I think we should do that after it gets back to you-it will move faster and you can arrange it to keep it as close to original as possible. It will also reduce the postage if it crosses less zones. It's only a little but every little bit helps. Also, since most coupons have an expiration date, if the train moves faster more people will be able to use the coupons before they expire!!

[VanillaBean]

I agree totally!!!!

[Shoppinglizzard]

Somehow we are talking about the same thing mom2fussbudgets. I sent my train to the closest folks to me and the last ones to get it will be the furthest from me. What did you think I meant?
I felt, as Rebate Queen stated, that this will get the train around quickest versues the train going back and forth across the country passing places it could stop at in the process. A good point was brought up that less coupons will expire if the train gets to folks faster too.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Somehow we are talking about the same thing mom2fussbudgets. I sent my train to the closest folks to me and the last ones to get it will be the furthest from me. What did you think I meant?
I felt, as Rebate Queen stated, that this will get the train around quickest versues the train going back and forth across the country passing places it could stop at in the process. A good point was brought up that less coupons will expire if the train gets to folks faster too.

I misunderstood! My apologies.

Since you said this:

It has been said that you may not have a variety of coupons if manufacturers target coupons by location

I thought you were talking about grouping a train geographically by zones. For instance, all Midwestern people in one train, all East coast people on one train, etc.

Anyway, I do think we should rearrange the passenger list when it gets back to me. The other trains seem to be moving along at a much faster clip.

[unicorn13]

Where is it now?

[lizmolik]

Where is it now?

Hey Unicorn...You are on my train!!! :)

[rebate queen]

notice/reminder for all train threads

:( Unfortunately, we have already lost our first train . Train #3 was received by the last passenger on 10/3 and has not shown up at it's next stop. The passenger who received it has also not logged into this site since that day. We all hope that it is just lost on the way, but it's not looking good....I will be sending the waiting passenger a new train today, but I'm sure it won't be as big as it was...

I really don't want those of us that have worked hard at keeping these going and those of you that are anxiously waiting for your train to come in to be disappointed by this happening again.

So, I would like to post a few reminders/rules/suggestions to hopefully make the outlook a little better...

Please post when your train comes in and again AFTER it leaves. Communication is vital to the success of the trains existence. The other passengers like to know where it is and how long it takes to get from one stop to the next.

Please check your train thread(s) at least every other day. The conductor may need to take a vote on a change, or another passenger may have a question for you, etc. It would be good to check it daily if it is right before or after your stop.

Please limit your train riding to 3 trains or less. This will be to just prevent confusion and to make room for new passengers. We will need to stop adding new trains at some point--I'm thinking 10--and we are already on #9.

And please, please don't join a train or stay on your train if you feel like you may not be able to follow through with your responsibilities as a passenger!!

Thank you for understanding the reason for this post and for your help in making the coupon trains a success!!:)

[wendav13]

Where is train #1 now?

[uofiharvey]

Our train is back in the mail on it's way to LisaRKR!

[mom2fussbudgets]

Thanks for letting us know!

[rebate queen]

Should be stopping in your city Monday LisaRKR!!:D

[LisaRKR]

WOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOO...............I am sooooooo ready! I await the coupons with great anticipation. <happy dance>:D

[LisaRKR]

Wanted to let you gals know I received the coupons today! :)

[rebate queen]

Wanted to let you gals know I received the coupons today! :)

Yeah!!--We are on a roll!! Thanks for posting!!;)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Thanks for letting us know, Lisa! :)

[LisaRKR]

OK, the train is once again on it's way!!!


zagmom, you should have them in a few days!
I have added a LOT of coupons. At least 150 or more. Hope you find some great ones for your use.:)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Yay! Thanks, Lisa!

[zagmom]

Perfect timing, ready for my bi-monthly grocery excursion. I have soooo many to add! I think we are doing well on our timing considering this is our first go round and the train didn't get lost!

[LisaRKR]

Perfect timing, ready for my bi-monthly grocery excursion. I have soooo many to add! I think we are doing well on our timing considering this is our first go round and the train didn't get lost!

Knock on wood!:)

[caryn]

Zagmom did you get them yet?

[zagmom]

Train arrived this afternoon. I had to chuckle when I looked through the coupons because I had some of the same ones saved to put in! The train will be heading out by Wednesday.

[mom2fussbudgets]

I'm sure a lot of our coupons come from the Sunday paper, LOL! Perhaps in time, we'll start seeing which ones to add, and which ones should be left out.

Thanks for letting us know!

[LisaRKR]

zagmom, did you at least find a bunch that you could use? I sure hope so!

I had to laugh to, because I came across the SoyJoy Bar Coupons, and of course added the ones I had! LOL

[mom2fussbudgets]

What? No takers on the Soy Joy coupons? I'm stunned! LOL!

[LisaRKR]

Now that I think about it, I wish I would have kept those coupons. Halloween is coming and for all those kids that live in the neighborhood and are rotten to the core, that could have been their "treat". hehehehehe:p

[Shoppinglizzard]

I would like to see folks add their coupons even if they are duplicates. There may be a particular coupon that one of the passengers would like multiples of. I know there are sometimes coupons that I wish I had two of, especially when it comes to buy one get one free stuff.

[caryn]

I would like to see folks add their coupons even if they are duplicates. There may be a particular coupon that one of the passengers would like multiples of. I know there are sometimes coupons that I wish I had two of, especially when it comes to buy one get one free stuff.

I agree whole heartedly. You never know when someone wants to stockpile on something. Someones junk is anothers treasure!

[mom2fussbudgets]

I didn't mean that we should leave any out because they're doubles. I just meant that pretty soon we'll probably start figuring out which ones we'll use and which ones we won't. Like the Soy Joy coupons. They came from me! Clearly no one wants the Soy Joy coupons. Lisa, I can send them along to you for next year, LOL! J/K!

[LisaRKR]

I didn't mean that we should leave any out because they're doubles. I just meant that pretty soon we'll probably start figuring out which ones we'll use and which ones we won't. Like the Soy Joy coupons. They came from me! Clearly no one wants the Soy Joy coupons. Lisa, I can send them along to you for next year, LOL! J/K!

ROFL!!! Hey, as hard as they are, I don't think anyone would notice the difference! They can choke a horse now, and jeez, by next Halloween, they should be just about the same! LOLOLOLOLOL:p

[mom2fussbudgets]

You are surely right! LOL!

[rebate queen]

You can all add the soyjoy coupons for me because I eat them!!!!:eek:
and I'm not kiddin'!!

[zagmom]

I actually found quite a few that were useful, saved over $70 at the grocery store today. And yes Rebate Queen I added my Soy Joy Coupons too!!!

[mom2fussbudgets]

That is awesome, Eleece!

Looks like Dawn gets all the Soy Joy coupons! :)

[LisaRKR]

You can all add the soyjoy coupons for me because I eat them!!!!:eek:
and I'm not kiddin'!!

Do you eat them because you like the taste or because they are supposed to be good for you? Either way, kudos to you! You are one tough woman! ;)

[rebate queen]

Do you eat them because you like the taste or because they are supposed to be good for you? Either way, kudos to you! You are one tough woman! ;)

It's about 50/50--anything to get a little soy in, I've had worse. Chocolate covered soybeans are the bomb though!!

[caryn]

Is the train on it's way to vanillabean?

[LisaRKR]

BTW, who was it that added the $1.00 coupons for Greenies for Cats? I was wondering where you got them, and my cat thanks you greatly!

[mom2fussbudgets]

BTW, who was it that added the $1.00 coupons for Greenies for Cats? I was wondering where you got them, and my cat thanks you greatly!

I can't remember what coupons I put in there now!

I was wondering if the train was on its way to VanillaBean as well.

[VanillaBean]

me too!!! :D

[rebate queen]

Where are you zagmom?? hope all is ok!!??!!..many wondering if the train is on its way to VanillaBean....

[mom2fussbudgets]

It's about 50/50--anything to get a little soy in, I've had worse. Chocolate covered soybeans are the bomb though!!

Agreed! I love chocolate covered soybeans. I actually love all things soy--except for those darn Soy Joy bars. :eek:

[VanillaBean]

Has anyone talked to zagmom? I have been anxiously waiting!!!!

[rebate queen]

Has anyone talked to zagmom? I have been anxiously waiting!!!!

I checked to see if she has been on the forum lately--her last time on was yesterday at 2:24 pm--I don't understand why she hasn't responded....:confused:

[VanillaBean]

Should we be worried????

[mom2fussbudgets]

Nah! She probably just forgot to post. I do stuff like that all of the time. I get on the computer to do something, then two hours later I log off, and realize I never even did what I went online to do in the first place! LOL!

[VanillaBean]

Hmmmm- :( anybody?????????

Where was the train leaving from? trying to figure out how long it takes to get to me???

[rebate queen]

Hmmmm- :( anybody?????????

Where was the train leaving from? trying to figure out how long it takes to get to me???

It is coming from Texas-----I hope....:o

[VanillaBean]

Thanks- shouldn't take too long then- wonder why she hasn't updated us tho??? It's only considerate.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Yep, it's coming from Texas. One thing I've learned from being a seller on eBay is that sometimes life happens. I've had people bid on my auctions, not pay, and then two weeks later I get an e-mail from them in which they apologize profusely and tell me that their computer crashed. Let's give her some time. :)

I can understand where you're coming from VB, you've had to wait a long time! Hopefully, you'll get it soon.

[zagmom]

I didn't get a chance to respond yesterday, Bad News! The post office returned the envelope to me mangled and in a plastic bag with a note that it got destroyed! I rushed to the post office this morning and have resent it 2nd day. It seems that the p.o. gets worse and worse about destroying packages, usually doesn't start happening until Christmas, guess they are getting an early start this year.

[VanillaBean]

Thank You!!! for letting us know!!!

[gatito]

I didn't get a chance to respond yesterday, Bad News! The post office returned the envelope to me mangled and in a plastic bag with a note that it got destroyed! I rushed to the post office this morning and have resent it 2nd day. It seems that the p.o. gets worse and worse about destroying packages, usually doesn't start happening until Christmas, guess they are getting an early start this year.


I GET APOLOGY NOTES FROM THE P.O. MOST OF THE TIME WHEN I GET SOMETHING BIG, THEY SHOULD BE MORE CAREFUL WITH OTHERS PEOPLE STUFF, I DO NOT PRETEND TO OFFEND ANYBODY HERE THAT COULD WORK AT THE PO BUT, MEN !! IT'S ALWAYS !!!!!:mad:

[LisaRKR]

I didn't get a chance to respond yesterday, Bad News! The post office returned the envelope to me mangled and in a plastic bag with a note that it got destroyed! I rushed to the post office this morning and have resent it 2nd day. It seems that the p.o. gets worse and worse about destroying packages, usually doesn't start happening until Christmas, guess they are getting an early start this year.


Of course it is starting early, they did raise the rates not too long ago and you KNOW that means service gets worse, NOT better! LOLOLOLOL:eek: :p

[VanillaBean]

So.... has the train left yet????

[mom2fussbudgets]

Eleece says she sent it out 2nd day on the 6th. That means you should get it today! :) Let us know!

[VanillaBean]

I did recieve it today. I have cub scouts tonight- so will be going through them late. Will go out either Tomorrow or Saturday. Thanks Zag

[LisaRKR]

YEAH!!! Our train is about to make a full circle!

And Dawn, in case you forgot, that means it is coming to you next! <giggle, nudge, nudge>:p

[VanillaBean]

First off- isn't it going to Chris next?? Secondly-aren't we supposed to take out expired coupons at each train stop? I have found tons of expired coupons- which, taken out, will reduce the size and cost of the train postage!! Third- who put in the coupon dated 1988 LOL the coupon itself doesn't have an experation date but at the bottom- it was printed in 1988- for double chex- do they still make these? LOL anyway- need to clear some of this up....... anyone?

[mom2fussbudgets]

It should be coming to me next! Don't leave your friendly neighborhood conductor out! :D

[VanillaBean]

See.....thought so

[mom2fussbudgets]

First off- isn't it going to Chris next?? Secondly-aren't we supposed to take out expired coupons at each train stop? I have found tons of expired coupons- which, taken out, will reduce the size and cost of the train postage!! Third- who put in the coupon dated 1988 LOL the coupon itself doesn't have an experation date but at the bottom- it was printed in 1988- for double chex- do they still make these? LOL anyway- need to clear some of this up....... anyone?

LOL! That may have been me. I don't throw any coupons out that may be used in the future. When the train came about, I cleaned out my coupon box. :D

Are we gonna send expired coupons to the military? That may be why the expired ones were left in.

[VanillaBean]

I must have already taken out 30 expired ones-which adds to the size of this thing- and I see zagmom already paid close to $5 postage- $4.60 quite steep if you ask me

[rebate queen]

I must have already taken out 30 expired ones-which adds to the size of this thing- and I see zagmom already paid close to $5 postage- $4.60 quite steep if you ask me

She paid extra to get it to you faster if I'm not mistaken. I would say it will probably cost you less than 1/2 of what she paid when you send it.;)

[VanillaBean]

oh ok- well I hope this thing doesn't cost me an arm and a leg lol- found some really great coupons- and I will add lots of them myself!!

[LisaRKR]

Chris, I am sorry........forgive me! I just looked at the list and saw Dawn on #1. LOL I was just excited that I got to razz her a little...........it would have been funny, I swear! LOL :eek:

Besides, could I really forget about you???;)

[rebate queen]

Chris, I am sorry........forgive me! I just looked at the list and saw Dawn on #1. LOL I was just excited that I got to razz her a little...........it would have been funny, I swear! LOL :eek:

Besides, could I really forget about you???;)

;) Thanks Lisa, I need all the "good" razzing I can get to keep me in balance......

Chris, Shouldn't you be #1 on the list??

[LisaRKR]

What are friends for!!!!???? lol:D :p

[zagmom]

Yes I did pay extra to get the envelope out faster which means I payed DOUBLE what was paid to it send to me due to the post office's incompetence. And by the way You're Welcome, even though I did receive a Thank You. Hopefully, no one else will have this problem, but if you do, I hope you have the grace to pay for the extra postage, without complaint, and make sure the next person inline has a chance to receive FREE coupons. As for all the expired coupons you had to pull, I myself removed a handful of expired and shortly to expire ones myself, but did not feel the need to point out I HAD to do this. I believe this is part of being in the train. That said, I would like to remove myself from this train as I feel that I did my part, as best I could, without complaint, waited patiently, a month, for my turn and was GLAD that I got FREE coupons. Thanks to all of you for your hard work!

[rebate queen]

Yes I did pay extra to get the envelope out faster which means I payed DOUBLE what was paid to it send to me due to the post office's incompetence. And by the way You're Welcome, even though I did receive a Thank You. Hopefully, no one else will have this problem, but if you do, I hope you have the grace to pay for the extra postage, without complaint, and make sure the next person inline has a chance to receive FREE coupons. As for all the expired coupons you had to pull, I myself removed a handful of expired and shortly to expire ones myself, but did not feel the need to point out I HAD to do this. I believe this is part of being in the train. That said, I would like to remove myself from this train as I feel that I did my part, as best I could, without complaint, waited patiently, a month, for my turn and was GLAD that I got FREE coupons. Thanks to all of you for your hard work!

I responded by pm

[VanillaBean]

ok- everyone else in here can voice there opinion but when I do- I get some snotty remarks back?? As the caboose- I have waited longer than anyone- I wasn't complaining- I WAS trying to clear up a couple of issues I had.(like not knowing what to do about expired coupons-some expired 10-28-07)

Thank You Zagmom for your 2 cents tho

[mom2fussbudgets]

I hope no one leaves! :(

Please try to remember how easy it is to misinterpret what others are saying in the written word.

Eleece, you went way above and beyond. Thanks so much for your efforts. They really were appreciated! I'm sorry if it seems like they weren't.

VB, thanks for trying to get your issues and questions cleared up. I hope all of your questions were addressed to your satisfaction.

Now, big hugs all around! :)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Chris, I am sorry........forgive me! I just looked at the list and saw Dawn on #1. LOL I was just excited that I got to razz her a little...........it would have been funny, I swear! LOL :eek:

Besides, could I really forget about you???;)

LOL! It was not a deal. When we meet, you can make it up to me with a pitcher full of sangria! :D

[LisaRKR]

Well, it has been a really long time since I made Sangria, but I can whip something up.....I used to tend bar, and I make a mean margarita, bloody mary, and lemon drop! Those were some of my customers favs! But the Sangria sounds great while we watch the "marine life" at Dawn's!:D

[rebate queen]

Well, it has been a really long time since I made Sangria, but I can whip something up.....I used to tend bar, and I make a mean margarita, bloody mary, and lemon drop! Those were some of my customers favs! But the Sangria sounds great while we watch the "marine life" at Dawn's!:D

Chris, you can have the sangria-not that I don't like it-but I'll take the margaritas and lemon drops:D . I save Bloody Marys for the once in a blue moon stressful Sunday family brunch. I just hit myself in the head a couple times, say I could have had a V-8, and commence drinking my "tomato juice":p

[mom2fussbudgets]

Ooh, I have never had a lemon drop. Sounds yummy! I have never been much of a drinker (because of the expense), so you'll have to excuse me. I am usually just a social drinker who only drinks when my richie sister is paying for the drinks, LOL! I did just get to have a Sangria last weekend while doing a mystery shop. That was a treat!

[rebate queen]

VanillaBean, when were you able to get the train out?? I'm just trying to figure when I will get it because I'm after mom2fussbudgets. Thanks!!:)

[VanillaBean]

I had a family emergency come up :( and that has set me behind a couple days- I will send it out by Friday :) . Sorry for any inconvience to all of you and thanks for being patient with me. :o

[mom2fussbudgets]

It's fine, VB. Thanks for letting us know.

I hope everything's okay!

[VanillaBean]

Train left here@ 3ish- it was $7.26 to send(no-this is NOT a complaint) just merely trying to keep heads up on the size of the train and postage costs. You might want to consider sending more than one "railcar" from now on- it is getting expensive due to weight.

[LisaRKR]

Train left here@ 3ish- it was $7.26 to send(no-this is NOT a complaint) just merely trying to keep heads up on the size of the train and postage costs. You might want to consider sending more than one "railcar" from now on- it is getting expensive due to weight.


YEAH! I HOPE it is that big when it comes to me! :D Thanks for the info VB!

[lain]

Please pardon the commercial interruption...

Do you like coupons?
Do you do get excited when the coupon train arrives in your mailbox?
Do you like to give and receive presents?


If you answered “yes” to any of these questions then the Secret Santa Coupon Exchange is for you :)

Sign up *points to siggy below* it will be fun, I promise. And, in the very least, it means an extra visit or two by the coupon fairy before the holidays.
this message was posted with the permission of the train conductor—thank you

[mom2fussbudgets]

Yay! Our coupon train made it round trip! :D I can't get over how much it's grown! I haven't had a chance to look at it yet, but I will soon! And I've got company coming, so it may not go out 'il next Monday.

[VanillaBean]

So... it took less than 2 days and yeah it is huge!!! That is my major concern because it did cost a bit and I didn't pay for 2-day delivery!! It went out regular. I am very glad you got it so soon too!!

Should we consider making it into 2 railcars? It will only get bigger as we go- and I can't think of how to mail it otherwise?

[LisaRKR]

It would be more advantageous for us to mail it Priority Mail in the flat rate envelope that the post office provides. It would cost $4.60, be there in 2 to 3 days and it can weigh up to 1 pound. It is a large envelope and we could fit a bunch into it! You can even go to the USPS website and order shipping supplies and they will deliver these envelopes right to your door. And yes, they are FREE!

[VanillaBean]

uh- I used an envelope from my post office which cost $1.59- but the thing weighs more than a pound!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The weight made the postage over $5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[mom2fussbudgets]

VB, you did not use a Priority Mail envelope. You can get those free, but then you must pay for Priority shipping.

I don't mean to sound like a cheapskate, but I don't want to pay $4.60 for shipping. We can probably ship Media Mail, but that will take it longer to arrive. Honestly, I think we should keep the coupon train under 13 ounces, that way we can mail it First Class.

[VanillaBean]

I didn't claim it was that specific envelope- I just said I got one from the post office.

[mom2fussbudgets]

I didn't claim it was that specific envelope- I just said I got one from the post office.

I was just letting you know in case you didn't realize, girl. Peace!

[caryn]

You decide how you want to handle it. It is your train! I do think $5 is a bit costly to mail coupons around but if we are getting a ton out that we will use, it is worth it. If you split it to more than one envelope, it will end up costing more in the long run because it does not cost as much to mail additional ounces. I thought the priority flat rate envelope was just $4.60 no matter what you put in it. I did not know that weight mattered.

[mom2fussbudgets]

I did get a number of coupons out of the train, but I do not believe it added up to $4.60. I use a lot of Sam's Choice products, so I can't always use coupons. Keeping it right at 13 ounces, there's still a lot of coupons there! I also took out a LOT of expired coupons, and here's my suggestion (this is going to go in the guidelines soon): we each either send them to the military on our own, or toss them. I see no sense in paying postage to mail expired coupons to each other. After I took out the expired coupons, and the coupons I wanted, the train only weighed 9 ounces.

Also, I have not sent out the coupon train yet, and I want to apologize for that. I was waiting to find out who I'm going to send coupons to in the Secret Santa coupon exchange, but I have yet to find out who that's going to be. It's unfair to make you all keep waiting, so if I don't find out today, I'll send the train along tomorrow.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Are ya'll about ready to murderize me? I wouldn't blame you if you were. I sent the train to Rebate Queen today. It weighed 12.5 ounces, and cost $2.84.

Would everyone on my train please send me a check-in PM giving me your e-mail address and letting me know whether you still want to be on the train? Thanks!

[caryn]

Are ya'll about ready to murderize me? I wouldn't blame you if you were. I sent the train to Rebate Queen today. It weighed 12.5 ounces, and cost $2.84.

Would everyone on my train please send me a check-in PM giving me your e-mail address and letting me know whether you still want to be on the train? Thanks!

No murderizing for Missouri! Thanks for keeping us posted.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Thanks, Caryn. I appreciate your understanding. :)

[mom2fussbudgets]

So far, only one person has sent me their e-mail address! LOL! Just a reminder to please PM it to me.

Also, I've PMed Wendy. I haven't seen her around here in ages! If she doesn't respond soon, I'll remover her from the train. Sad to do that--I always really liked Wendy. Wendy, we miss you, girl!

[LisaRKR]

Is anyone still riding this train?????? LOL, it is very very quiet on here. So not like our train!:D

[mom2fussbudgets]

Ya know? I'm wondering how many of us are still around. I sent some PMs out yesterday--hopefully, I'll get lots of responses!

[rebate queen]

The train came in yesterday-my daughter and I are cutting coupons(she's been sick since Friday) I should be able to send it out tomorrow--oops, no I need to call shoppinglizzard--let me look back and see who's on this darn train:confused: :rolleyes: .......

[rebate queen]

The train came in yesterday-my daughter and I are cutting coupons(she's been sick since Friday) I should be able to send it out tomorrow--oops, no I need to call shoppinglizzard--let me look back and see who's on this darn train:confused: :rolleyes: .......

yep, I need to call Liz....update later---time for allure........

[mom2fussbudgets]

I've asked my passengers for the courtesy of a response several times now, and some are just not getting back to me. Since Dawn is about ready to send the train along, I'm going to drop some passengers from our train. If you are a dropped passenger, you are always welcome to rejoin by PMing me.

Here's our new passenger list:

1. Rebate Queen
2. Shoppinglizzard
3. Caryn
4. LisaRKR
5. koi
6. mom2fussbudgets

[rebate queen]

OK--shoppinglizzard already has the train and says she will probably be able to mail it tomorrow. Was that fast or what??? :eek: As soon as I made that last post I called her, she said she could be here in 20 minutes. We couldn't finish clipping them all fast enough, so she helped us:)

[caryn]

Wahoo! I am so excited! I am NEXT!!!

[LisaRKR]

OK--shoppinglizzard already has the train and says she will probably be able to mail it tomorrow. Was that fast or what??? :eek: As soon as I made that last post I called her, she said she could be here in 20 minutes. We couldn't finish clipping them all fast enough, so she helped us:)

You are just TOO GOOD woman! Thank you gals, both of you for keeping this train on the tracks! It is nice to know that there are a few of us that can keep it together!

[Shoppinglizzard]

Good evening ladies and gents (any gents on this train?)
I have gone through the train and it will be sent in the morning. Perfect timing since I am going grocery shopping tomorrow!
Do we have anyone on this train who uses baby coupons? I thought the train had a lot of baby coupons and if noone uses them mabey we can give those to other trains we may be on. Just a thought. :)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Good thinking, Liz! I don't use any. If no one needs any, are any of you a member of a train where someone else can use them? I am, but I see no sense in continuing to mail them until the train comes back to me.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Koi PMed me, so she's back on the train!

[LisaRKR]

No need for baby coupons here.

[rebate queen]

No need for baby coupons here.

me either:D !!

[Shoppinglizzard]

Sorry the train didn't go out yesterday as I had intended. It WILL go today. I will post after I mail it.
As far as baby coupons go I suggest we all post if we need baby coupons. If we see that we don't need them than whoever has the train when that is determined can send them to any other train they are on or mabey donate them to a pregnant neighbor, co-worker, etc. What do ya'll think?

[mom2fussbudgets]

Sounds good! Those of us who are on other coupon trains: I suggest we transfer them to another train if anyone there can use them.

[caryn]

I can use some baby coupons but not baby baby ones like food. I do still buy diapers and pull ups and some finger food stuff for in the car. I'll look it over and watch for posts and maybe transfer some to another train.

Thanks!

[Shoppinglizzard]

Ok guys the train is on it's way.
It was 13.9oz so it cost me $4.60. I sent it priority since it only cost 10 cents more. The postal worker calculated the envelope for an example at 12oz and it would have cost me $3. Once it goes over 13oz you no longer have first class as a choice.
Is there a way that we could reduce the weight? I used a padded envelope but I can't imagine that the envelope alone weighed much. Could we remove the inner envelopes that seperate the categories and just use a rubber band or paper clip to keep them seperate? That is what my train does. Any suggestions?

[caryn]

Is there a way that we could reduce the weight? I used a padded envelope but I can't imagine that the envelope alone weighed much. Could we remove the inner envelopes that seperate the categories and just use a rubber band or paper clip to keep them seperate? That is what my train does. Any suggestions?

The padded envelope probably didn't add that much but.... it could possibly have added an ounce. I will see if I can weigh just the envelope when it gets here and see what it weighs.

Anyhow, I just rubberbanded my train too. I only seperated them into food and non-food and then ones that expired real soon so that they could be gone through real quick so they could be used before they expire. I can do that here too if you want me to.

[mom2fussbudgets]

I sent the train to Rebate Queen today. It weighed 12.5 ounces, and cost $2.84.



My suggestion is to keep it under 13 ounces, which is what I did. The padded envelope probably adds more weight than we might think, so I say we mail it in an unpadded one. I don't care if they are separated into categories or not, so we can dispense with the envelopes and rubber band them all together if you want.

[LisaRKR]

My suggestion is to keep it under 13 ounces, which is what I did. The padded envelope probably adds more weight than we might think, so I say we mail it in an unpadded one. I don't care if they are separated into categories or not, so we can dispense with the envelopes and rubber band them all together if you want.


I agree with doing away with the envelopes, rubber bands and paper clips. They all add weight and since we ARE SUPPOSED to cull out the expired or soon to be expired anyway, you have to look at each coupon anyway. What is the difference?

[Shoppinglizzard]

I like the idea of taking out the categories. Although I do like the idea of seperating just the ones that expire soon (mabey like within 30 days) that way we are more likely to catch those. I tend to look at the closely expiring ones a bit closer anyway to decide if I want to give that product a shot instead of the coupin possibly going to waste.

[caryn]

Got the train late yesterday ( I got 2 in the same day) I will go through and pick and then sort and try to get it ready to go back out. There are ALOT of coupons! Many more than the other train I got. Anyhow, we have ICE on the road and have been stuck inside for 2 days. Much of our area is out of electricity. I have it ~ so that means lots of extra people at my house.


As soon as I can get it to the post office and back out I will!

I am going to get rid of the envelpes and sort it like I did the last one I got rid of the envelopes on.

[caryn]

Okay, I finally got the train sorted through and ready to go. By the time I got to the post office here in town, it was closed. They don't have one of those nifty self weigh postage stations so it will have to wait to go out until Monday. I sorted the coupons into three categories.

1. Coupons that expire soon - Before the end of the year
2. Food Coupons - in order by expiration date
3. Non-Food Coupons - in order by expiration date.

I did put a rubber band around each one. I got rid of the envelopes, this is a big train and it needs some sort of organization or it would take us days to go through. Hope this works for everyone.

[caryn]

Hi! It's me again. I got a bunch of new coupons in the mail today from rebate queen so the train will leave out of Joplin tomorrow.

[Shoppinglizzard]

Hey guys. When I first signed up for the coupon trains I had my Mother In Law sending me coupons from her and my Gramdma's house. Well since then my Grandma has passed away and my Mother In Law canceled her paper subscription so I am getting much fewer coupons than I did.
I will know better after the first of the year if I will have enough coupons in my own to continue participating. I thought I could supplement with internet coupons but that really isn't saving me money if I am spending a bunch of money on paper and ink.
I will keep you informed. For now I am still here though.....

Hope you all have a merry Christmas!

[caryn]

I got the train mailed out today. It cost me $5.30 and I sent it priority so you should have it in Texas in 2days, Lisa. It was a difference of 10 cents so I paid it.

[LisaRKR]

Great Caryn! I will let you know as soon as it arrives!

[LisaRKR]

Hey guys. When I first signed up for the coupon trains I had my Mother In Law sending me coupons from her and my Gramdma's house. Well since then my Grandma has passed away and my Mother In Law canceled her paper subscription so I am getting much fewer coupons than I did.

I am so sorry for your loss. <hugs>

[LisaRKR]

The train arrived today!!! OMG, I love all of the coupons I have to look through! I probably will not get a chance to get it out until the day after Christmas gals. I hope everyone understands! If this is a problem, please let me know and I will just forward them to the next passenger. I really don't see much sense in trying to get it out now anyway, they would probably get lost with all of the Christmas mailings.

[caryn]

Lisa,

Sounds good to me. Wait until after the rush. You probably would have to wait in line for two hours at the post office anyhow!

MERRY CHIRISTMAS!

[Shoppinglizzard]

Thanks for the hug! Just trying to get a handle on my ability to add to the trains I am on. I don;t want to be a minimal participant and slow down the guys who have a lot to add to the train. I think I will be on on coupons but I need to feel out how many coupons I have access to.

[LisaRKR]

Hi gals......just wanted to let you know, I will be get the train out tomorrow. I have been sicker than a dog since Christmas Day. Sorry for the delay. I will post as soon as I send it. Again, I am so sorry.

[LisaRKR]

HELP! I will also need the address for you Koi so that I can send it! Please PM it to me. Thanks.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Lisa, I PMed it to you. Please don't apologize. Your health and well-being are more important than the coupon train. I hope you are 100% soon!

[LisaRKR]

Thank you Chris. And thank you to all of you for your patience! Today is the 31st, I finally feel human, and I am going to the post office in 30 minutes! lol Come hell or high water, I am going! I PROMISE, I am sending today. I will post later to let you know that I actually did! LOL

I hope all of you had a great Christmas!

[LisaRKR]

OK Koi, it is on its way to you........I sent it Priority Mail so you should have it on Thursday since the mail doesn't run tomorrow (New Years Day).

[mom2fussbudgets]

Koi PMed me and told me she is going to be without Internet access for awhile, but she would still like to be on the coupon train. She said she would let us know if she changes her mind.

[LisaRKR]

Thanks for letting us know. Hopefully she will stay on the train.

[mom2fussbudgets]

How would you all feel about adding someone onto our train?

[caryn]

Whatever works for everyone else is fine with me!

[rebate queen]

Doesn't matter to me!

[mom2fussbudgets]

Thanks, guys! I asked jwantink to join our train.

[mom2fussbudgets]

jwantink is now a passenger.

After I get the coupon train, do you all mind if I change the order of the passenger list? I'd like to do it geographically.

[caryn]

That's fine. Whatever works best for everyone!

[LisaRKR]

NO NO NO!!! :p

Just thought I would stir up some trouble! LOL

Welcome to the train jwantink!

[mom2fussbudgets]

Lisa! At first I thought you were serious. :) I commented on your picture in the member's pic thread, did you see? You have got one handsome hubby, girl!

[jwantink]

Just wanted to say thanks for adding me to your train!

[LisaRKR]

Lisa! At first I thought you were serious. :) I commented on your picture in the member's pic thread, did you see? You have got one handsome hubby, girl!

LMAO!!! <snickering too> hehehehehehehe

Ohhhh, thank you. I think he is pretty cute but then again I am a bit prejudice! I got lucky! He is good looking and a great hubby. He truly is one of the good guys!

[mom2fussbudgets]

I wish you would come around here more. I love you and miss you. :p

[mom2fussbudgets]

Just wanted to say thanks for adding me to your train!

Very welcome! :)

[mom2fussbudgets]

No word from koi. I shoulda asked her for her phone number. I sure hope we aren't going to have another train derail. :(

[caryn]

No word from koi. I shoulda asked her for her phone number. I sure hope we aren't going to have another train derail. :(

I agree about the derailment! I don't want to see anymore of them!:eek:

[mom2fussbudgets]

You know? I've been doing the coupon trains all this time, and so far, I've only had one train make it back to me. I am starting to get seriously bummed. :(

[caryn]

You know? I've been doing the coupon trains all this time, and so far, I've only had one train make it back to me. I am starting to get seriously bummed. :(

Man, that really does stink!!!! Maybe we should all send you coupons!:D

[mom2fussbudgets]

LOL! Brandy sent me a ton of coupons around Christmas, so that made me feel better. :D

[Shoppinglizzard]

Just curious, where is the train? I have a bunch of coupons saved.

[mom2fussbudgets]

We don't know. Lisa mailed it to koi on 12/31. Koi PMed me and told me she'd be without Internet access for awhile right around that time, but that she still wanted to be on the train. It's not looking good though, is it guys? I'm so bummed! I just sent out a new train for coupon train 10 because it got derailed, and right before it was headed to me! I can't believe it''s happening on this train as well. Sigh!