No time for coupons

The best part about writing this column is hearing from readers, particularly when information has helped them in some way.

With the price of groceries continuing to rise, Suzanne Tripp of Fort Smith, Ark., proves that you can save big money on groceries even if you are a very busy person. Rather than coupon shopping being a chore, Suzanne sees it as a fun monthly experience that fits into her busy schedule:

"I wanted to share some strategies I've used for 25-plus years. First, a little background: During this time I've been a corporate wife, mother and business owner very active in the community. When people say they're too busy to use coupons -- I hoot with laughter. I sit with a nice glass of wine and the Sunday stack of coupons and magazines, clipping only those I'd actually try or already use. Although I use coupons for 'regular' shopping, my main use is a semi-special trip to a double-coupon store about every four weeks -- no kids, no time pressure -- at a time when the store is quiet. As I go from aisle to aisle, I look for sale items and compare it to the regular price at the discount grocery. After I finish shopping, I put the savings in a special envelope and spend it for personal use for which I feel no guilt -- a pedicure, artwork, Christmas gifts, etc. I have found it to be a game that I really enjoy. Also, the time alone wandering the aisles with no pressure is very relaxing. I live a hectic life at times and this is a real oasis I look forward to."

And J.R. from Fayetteville, N.C., wrote: "May I add two more that I feel should be in our minds as we shop: 1) Don't go shopping on an empty stomach -- this causes one to pick up unnecessary items because we are hungry. 2) Don't take preschoolers to the store with you. They beg, whine and cry for Mom or Dad to buy unnecessary food and toys."

Salty cleaning tip

And a practical tip from Don Laliberte of Sun City, Ariz: "Read your column regarding the use of ketchup to remove tarnish from copper bottom pots and pans. Try using ketchup AND table salt. It works in seconds and cleans as well as the expensive 'Twinkle' and the like. Apparently, the addition of salt to the ketchup permits a quicker and more complete result." Good advice, Don. I'll try that next time!

Shopping for a job

I recently heard from Maria Walker, a reader from Pennsylvania. The column discussed various part-time jobs available at local supermarkets for product demonstrators, coupon stockers and mystery shoppers. Maria put the information to use and shared her happy ending with me:

"I had just moved to the area from New Jersey and have small children, so I was looking for a flexible job. After reading your article, I asked a food demonstrator at the Shop-Rite where I grocery shop if her company was looking for help. I've been working for the agency since May 2006 and it's working out well."