Stores Offering Crafts and Activities for Kids this Summer | 2010

Posted on June 5, 2010 by *Geekette*

There are tons of FREE and discounted things for your kids to do this summer! Take advantage and don’t pay retail! This blog post consists of all the fun activities we do during the week and on the weekends! Most of the programs we participated in last year. Also make sure to check out my blog post about 2010 Summer Reading Programs for Kids (to learn how to get free books, t-shirts, and gift certificates to reward your children for reading over the summer!) Some of the activities were mentioned in my blog post, 6 Kid Activities for the 6^th Day of the Week!

Bass Pro Shop

I hope you have one nearby, they offer great activities over the summer (and throughout the year!) They will be offering FREE/Fun activities and make your own crafts! EVERYTHING is FREE! Activities include crafts, shooting galleries, casting ponds, family workshops, making s’mores, photo opportunities (FUN!!), shooting range, merit badge workshops, and more!

When: June 5 – July 11

Time/Day of the Week(s): Tues/Thur (at noon) OR Sat/Sun (at noon) { Schedule }

Cost: FREE

Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics

Make sure you check out my recent blog post about these quality activities that occur every other week! Your child will enjoy getting the free Lowe’s apron, goggles, and hammering away at the wood craft of the week!

When: Indefinitely, not just for the summer!

Time/Day of the Week(s): Every other Saturday, next event is 6/12/2010, after that is 6/26/2010 – starts at 10am and supplies go FAST! { Schedule }

Cost: FREE!!

Home Depot’s Kids Workshops

Another fun, FREE activity, Home Depot activities are very similar to Lowe’s. Really quality crafts! Have made a wooden airplane, treasure box, pirate ship, and more!

When: Indefinitely, not just a summer thing!

Time/Day of the Week(s): First Saturday of EVERY month, starts at 9am – get there EARLY! { Schedule }

Cost: FREE!!

Lakeshore Learning Store

Another really quality craft activity, this one is fun and can kill a couple hours! After making the craft, walk around the store and play with all the displays set out on Saturday for kids to experiment with. A fully stocked kitchen, put on a puppet show, go fish, and much more!

Also, on special holidays they sometimes offer multiple crafts! Great gifts for grandparents! They also encourage parents to participate if you’re feeling particularly crafty.

When: Indefinitely, not just summer!

Time/Day of the Week(s): Every Saturday from 11-3pm…try to not just show up at 2:45pm when they’re trying to clean up. The San Antonio location brings out supplies as long as there are kids which I’ve always appreciated. { Schedule }

Cost: FREE!!

Target Arts + Cultures

Target is supporting the Arts by offering over 2,200 FREE and reduced-price events sponsored by Target! Click on the link to find events near you!

Pottery Barn Kids Book Club

When: Indefinitely, not just for the summer

Time/Day of the Week(s): Tuesdays at 11am-1130am { Schedule }

Cost: FREE, after 5 visits get a FREE gift!

2010 Summer Reading Programs for Kids

Posted on May 29, 2010 by *Geekette*

This summer when your kids start to get bored, remind them that they can make money and get lots of fun free stuff, simply by reading a couple minutes each day! We participated in a lot of these programs last year and had an incredible time!

Across the nation, Half Price Books is offering their “Feed Your Brain” summer reading program from June 1,2010 through July 31, 2010! This is a GREAT deal! If your child reads 15 minutes each day a week, you can pick up a $3 gift card! We made this a Saturday tradition, turning in our reading log and picking out a new book or two (from the children’s clearance section!)

Information for parents/teachers here
Feed Your Brain reading log (printed copies also available in-store!)
Official flyer to help spread the word at work!

Scholastic Summer Challenge

Official website
Word Girl is the Ambassador of Summer Reading

Barnes and Noble is also offering a FREE book for every 8 books you read this summer!

Download their passport and choose from a list of books for each reading level!
Here is a list of all the books your child can choose from
Educators download this reading kit
Parents can get additional information from this parent kit

Children can return their completed kits from May 25 through September 7^th!

Borders Summer Reading program double-dog dares you to read 10 books, record the names, and bring the printed form to any Borders store for a FREE book!

*For kids 12 and under, starts 5/4/2010 and lasts through 8/26/2010!

Pottery Barn Kids Book Club is every Tuesday from 1100am to 1130am. Visit 5 times and your children will receive a free gift!

Bookworm Wednesdays from National Amusements is offering FREE admission to select children’s film after presenting a book report to participating Showcase Cinemas, Multiplex Cinemas, or Cinema De Lux box offices! Checkout their locations. Print this form to complete the book report with your child.

HEB Buddy is also offering a summer reading program! Read 10 books and return this form by October 1^st for cool prizes from HEB Buddy!

San Antonio Public Library wants you to join the Mayor’s Summer Reading Club! From June 15^th through August 31^st, you’ll get a certificate and FREE book for every 15 books you read!

2010 Mother’s Day Deals, Printable Coupons, and Online Offers

Posted on April 28, 2010 by *Geekette*

Almost 50 retailers and restaurants are listed below with printable coupons, online promotional codes, and other sales for Mother’s Day this year! Make this year memorable by finding affordable gifts for the special women in your life! (Or finally treat yourself to something special, without the guilt!) Use the discounts to buy books to read with your children (or for yourself), buy some special new clothes, finally get those pictures developed, and much more!

Some coupons don’t expire for several months and some expire today! Hurry and find what coupons your looking for!

Retailer	Deal	Promotional Code	Expires
1-800-Flowers	Save 20% Sitewide	MDSW2	4/28/2010
Advance Auto Parts	15% Off Everything w/ No Minimum Online	W615	4/28/2010
Ann Taylor	Take an Extra 25% Off All Sale Items	SALE25
Aveeno	Printable $1 Coupon Off Any Baby Product	Printable Coupon
Aveeno	$3 Off 2 Positively Nourishing Body Care Products + $1 Off Daily Moisturizing Lotion By Mail	Signup to get discount!
Barnes & Noble	30% Off Gifts for Mom & Select Titles (In-Store + Online)	Y7U3D4T	5/3/2010
Bath & Body Works	$10 Off a $30 Purchase	“APRIL50″	5/9/2010
Borders	33% Off List Price On One Item (Online + In-Store)	BBA7579D	4/28/2010
Brookstone	$5 Off a $50 Purchase	AF5MAY	5/31/2010
Calvin Klein	20% Off Entire Purchase	welcome1012	5/4/2010
Charlotte Russe	Reusable 25% Storewide Discount Coupon (Online or In-Store)	Signup to get discount!	5/2/2010
Coach Factory Stores	30% off a purchase over $250 or 20% off a purchase under $250	Printable Coupon	5/9/2010
Crabtree & Evelyn	$10 Off Any Purchase Online, No Minimum	MOM210	5/9/2010
CVS Photo	25% off All Mother’s Day Gifts	25MOM	5/3/2010
Delia’s	20% Off Entire Order	SUNNY20	4/29/2010
DSW	Get a $10 bonus card w/ each purchase of a $50 or more gift card	in-stores and online	5/9/2010
Gaiam	$15 off $75, $20 off $100, or $25 off $125	AFSPRING	5/15/2010
Gaiam	$.99 Shipping on Any Order Over $75	AFSPSAVE	5/31/2010
GAP	20% Off Your Online Purchase	GAPSAVEBIG	4/30/2010
Hobby Lobby	40% Off One Regular priced Item Online	5989	5/1/2010
Hobby Lobby	40% off printable coupon	Printable Coupon	5/1/2010
Home Depot	$5 Off a $50 Purchase	SAVINGS26	5/2/2010
J. Crew	Extra 20% Off All Spring Styles	EXTRA20	4/30/2010
JCPenney	$10 Off a $25 Purchase	LUV4MOM	5/9/2010
Joann Fabric	60% Off Entire Custom Framing Order	Printable Coupon	5/8/2010
Joann Fabric	40% off 1 Regularly-Priced Item Online	SED128	4/30/2010
Juicy Juice	$1 off Sparkling Beverage	Printable Coupon
Macy’s	Extra 15% Savings Pass Off All Sale and Clearance Apparel	Printable Coupon	5/3/2010
Macy’s	25% Off Friends & Family + Free Shipping	MACYSFF	5/3/2010
Meow Mix	$1.00 Off Any 3 Cups of Market Select Wet Cat Food	Printable Coupon
Motherhood	$50 Restaurant.com certificate with $75 purchase (In stores/online)	CRAVE50
Motherhood	Free Shipping for Orders $75+	MHMOMFS
New York & Company	$25 Off a $50 Purchase	4538	5/13/2010
Office Depot	$10 off $50 (In-Store, Online, & By Phone)	26421793	5/3/2010
Oriental Trading Company	20% Off Entire Order	CLASS2010	5/31/2010
Perry Ellis	Extra 30% Off Online Coupon Code	FANDF30	5/3/2010
REI Outlet	Save 50% or More
Restaurant.com	80% Off Coupon Code – $25 gift certificate for $2!!!	MEAL	4/30/2010
Saks Off 5th	30% Off Any One Item (In-Store)	Printable Coupon	5/4/2010
Schick Disposable Razor	$2 off any One Schick Disposable Razor	Printable Coupon
Scholastic Store	Buy 3 Books, Get 4th Free	SSSMRC	5/10/2010
SnapFish	20% off gifts for mom	MOMSDAY10	5/9/2010
Stride Rite	20% Off a $50 Purchase (in-store & online)	SUN20	5/13/2010
Target	10% Off Entire Order	2ROZVVHX	7/4/2010
The Sharper Image	10% Off Any Order	AFMAY2	5/15/2010
The Sharper Image	Take $20 off an Order of $150 or More!	SAVE20	4/30/2010
Toys R Us	$10 Off a $50 Purchase	936072	5/16/2010
White House \| Black Market	$20 off a purchase of $80+ (Online & In-Store)	9125	4/28/2010
Yankee Candle	Buy Any Lg Jar or Tumbler Candle, Get 1 50% Off – In-store/Online	Link to Coupon	5/9/2010

2010 Earth Day San Antonio TX

Posted on April 20, 2010 by *Geekette*

Alamo Quarry Market will host an Earth Day recycling event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

When: Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Alamo Quarry Market { MAP }

Guadalupe River State Park invites you to Family Fun Day to celebrate the grand opening of the Children’s Discovery Center and Earth Day { MAP }

*All activities are free with regular park admission.

Enjoy the grand opening of the new Children’s Discovery Center with activities and giveaways and stations
Learn about plants and seeds
Try nature drawing
Play Earth Day games
Catch water insects
Try hands-on archaeology
Guided nature walks start every hour on the half hour and discuss geology, insects, animal tracks and trees/plants.
2 hour hike in the Honey Creek area of the park is offered at 9:30 and 1:30, meeting at the Rust House.

When: Saturday, April 24 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Where: 3350 Park Rd 31 | Spring Branch TX 78070 { Google Map }

San Antonio Zoo and the San Antonio Zoo’s Green Team will be hosting an aluminum can collection drive in honor of Earth Day. Visitors who donate 10 aluminum cans for recycling will receive a FREE reusable shopping bag with the Zoo logo.

When: Thursday, April 22, 2010 from between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Where: San Antonio Zoo { MAP }

SAC Go Green! Earth Day Festival
Celebrating the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, several green businesses and non-profits will be at San Antonio College to educate about eco-friendly living. @SAC_PR

*Additionally, a Corona Visions recycling truck will collect used batteries, CDs, cell phones and other electronics (but no TVs or monitors), and SAC student volunteers will recycle paper, plastic, aluminum and glass.

When: April 22 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: San Antonio College { MAP }

2010 Earth Day Printable Activities and Crafts for Kids

Posted on April 20, 2010 by *Geekette*

Check out everything that you and your child can do for FREE this April 22, 2010 to build good habits for a lifetime! Doesn’t have to be isolated to the 40^th anniversary of Earth Day either…check out these activities throughout the year!

PBS Kids Earth Day

PBSKids.org has dedicated:

Entire section for Earth Day games (with games centered about taking care of our earth)
Earth Day Videos
Earth Day parents – includes ways to throw a green birthday party, turn trash into treasures, and teaching your children about being “green”.
Follow @pbskids on twitter
Become a fan on Facebook

Lakeshore Learning

I LOVE this store! Not only do they have great online resources, they offer a FREE quality craft each Saturday from 11am-3pm. We normally go and afterwards make the rounds to all the display toys, free entertainment!

Online Projects
- Check out their projects/crafts for April including reusable Earth Day Bags and more!
Lesson Plans for educators!
Follow them on twitter – @ LakeshoreLM
Become a fan on Facebook

Earth Day Celebrated by Children’s Publishing Companies

Harper Collins Children Publishing Co.

The children’s book publishing company offers:

Green Activities – tons of e-cards, reading materials, and printable coloring activities
Greet Tips for Parents – join Little Critter on a missing to cleanup his neighborhood (read online for FREE)
Follow their tweets @harpercollins

Read the following books online for FREE w/ your children:

Scholastic

Scholastic has a GREAT site for Teachers, Kids, and Parents to help prepare you for Earth Day! Tons of fun, FREE printable activities, online games, and great website layouts!

Follow their Tweets @Scholastic
Become a Fan on Facebook

Other Earth Day Crafts & Activities

Tons of fun activities and printable crafts for the kids and family to enjoy!

Kaboose – crafts, organic food information, lessons, including their “Go Green” checklist
Crayola – tons of printable crafts, ideas, and activities

Celebrate Earth Day 2010 | 40th Anniversary

Posted on April 20, 2010 by *Geekette*

Earth Day originally started on April 22, 1970 when it was originally founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson – designed to educate and appreciate the Earth’s environment.

EarthDay.org

Follow their tweets – @EarthDayNetwork
Become a Fan of Earth Day Network on Facebook
Sign the Petition! “Demand that our leaders pass strong climate legislation that benefits all Americans“
FREE ride to Washington, DC for Climate Rally
Take action by committing to simple ways to positively impact the climate!

Earth Day Climate Rally | Washington, DC

When: Sunday, April 25, 2010

More information here.

How Green are You?!

Carbon Footprint Quiz

Find out how large your ecological (carbon) footprint is by taking this interactive quiz including information on reducing your footprint!

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EAP)

Mission: Protect human health and the environment.

EPA Earth Day links:

EAP Blog
@Greenversations
Commit to 5 Actions
Local events to volunteer and/or attend
Blog Widgets – find the UV index, Earth Day countdowns, questions of the week, and lots more!

Become a fan on Facebook!
Follow on Twitter – @epagov

Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics | FREE Kid Woodworking Crafts

Posted on April 3, 2010 by *Geekette*

Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics are offered every other Saturdays at 10am. Kids get to build a FREE wooden project.

After going to the website you’ll get to see the next two upcoming projects and reserve a space online! You don’t have to sign up before attending but you have to get there early because once all the projects have been handed out they’re done! I normally try to go to a Lowe’s that’s more out of the way so that there’s less competition in case we’re running late.

My 6 year old daughter and I have been going for a couple of years and have made some incredible projects! You can buy any project that you missed online but it’s DEFINITELY worth it to attend when the crafts are FREE!

Participants receive:

Free apron
Goggles
Project themed patch (for their apron)
Certification of merit

Don’t forget to become a Fan of Lowe’s on Facebook and follow their tweets, @lowes.

Lowe’s Build and Grow Apron, Goggles, Hammer (child-sized)

Valentine’s Day Jewelry Box Craft

Birdhouse Building Kit

2010 NCAA Women’s Final Four San Antonio

Posted on March 27, 2010 by *Geekette*

Next weekend is a HUGE weekend for Women’s Basketball! Of course you should support your favorite teams by watching the games…but there’s a LOT more to be done!

Check out the 2010 NCAA Tournament Women’s Bracket here. Find out who’s left and who’s still in! Sic ‘em Lady Bears!

NCAA Women’s Final Four

Next weekend is a HUGE weekend for Women’s Basketball! Of course you should support your favorite teams by watching the games…but there’s a LOT more to be done!

{ Complete Fan Guide }

Tickets

Buy your tickets on Ticketmaster.com!

Events

Check out a FULL list of events for the weekend of April 2^nd through the 4^th!

Tourney Town

Tourney Town is FREE to all and offers NCAA Women’s Final Four fans a chance to check out interactive basketball exhibits, music, food, contests, freebies, and more! Find more information on Facebook too!

Definitely a family-friendly festival celebrating all the greats in women’s college basketball at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Feel free improve your skills during the youth clinics, open play, and other games.

Friday, April 2 – Noon – 9:30 p.m.
Center Stage Highlights:
Family Pop Rock Concert with Kate Voegele, 4:30 p.m.
Live R&B and Soul Favorites with The Atlantics, 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 3 – 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Center Stage Highlights:
Texas Talent Showdown® Refreshed By Coke Zero Finals, 1-3 p.m.
State Farm Coaches’ All America Team Autograph Session, 3:30 p.m.
AT&T Mascot Challenge, 5:30 p.m.
Tourney Town Hot Country Music Concert with Joe Nichols, JR Castillo & Unwound, and Charla Corn, 7-11 p.m.

Sunday, April 4 – Noon-5 p.m.

Center Stage Highlights:
Time Out in Tourney Town® Pre Game Party with performances by Ayla Brown, Sarah Lenore and DJMel

Social Media

Become a Fan of the NCAA 2010 Women’s Final Four on Facebook!

Become a Fan of NCAA Women’s Basketball on Facebook!

Follow @NCAAWomensBKB‘s tweets – written by Sue Donohoe, Vice President of Division 1 Women’s Basketball!

Directions to the Alamo Dome

Whether you’re visiting San Antonio for the first time, or just have trouble heading downtown…here are some helpful directions to the Alamo Dome:

From Interstate 35 North

Use U.S. Highway 281 South/I-37 South exit.

South on U.S. Highway 281/I-37.

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From Interstate 35 South

Use U.S. Highway 90 East and exit U.S. Highway 281 North/I-37 North.

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From Interstate 10 East

Use U.S. Highway 281 North/I-37 North exit.

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From Interstate 10 West

Use I-35 North.

Exit I-37 South.

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From Interstate 37 South

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From U.S. Highway 281 North

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

SeaWorld San Antonio Coupons

Posted on March 12, 2010 by *Geekette*

Don’t forget to check out these printable coupons, deals, and events that make seeing Shamu even more worth it! Also find out the difference between SeaWorld’s Fun Pass and their Season pass and when you should buy one over the other. My daughter and I LOVE spending time together at SeaWorld San Antonio. It is a LOT more personal and intimate than other amusement parks, and you just leave with a good feeling.

Fun Pass vs. Season Pass

Fun Pass

Purchase your 2010 Fun Card for the price of a single day admission ticket and come back all year!

Season Pass

Parking Included – show your season pass at the gate for FREE regular parking
20% off food and merchandise – throughout the entire year (just flash your pass)
Pass Member Events – season pass holders get to go to special events just for them! Keep in mind that ONLY the season pass member can attend, not one season pass per family…
Special rates on Behind the Scenes Tours, Camp SeaWorld, and Dine with Shamu.

SeaWorld Promotional Offers

Lifetime Fitness Savings – are you a member of the nationwide gym? Save 20% off at the San Diego location and 15% off at all other Busch Garden locations.
Promotion Code – enter
- “SAVE” – $7 off single day pass and more!
- “McDonalds2010” - to save at Busch Gardens Tampa, SeaWorld Orlando, and more!
San Antonio Attractions (Greater San Antonio Area Tourism Council) offers this coupon

March Coupons for Sea World San Antonio

20% discount for Sesame Street Breakfast
$10 off Adult/Child one day admission ticket
FREE tray of fish at Sea Lion feeding (w/ purchase of 1 tray)
20% off food and merchandise
20% discount on All You Care to Eat and Drink All Day deal
$5 off Quick Queue Pass (skip lines at a discounted rate!)

MOST RECENT: Annual Pass Members Monthly Coupons/Offers – http://passMemberUpdates.com

Pass Member Advantages:

One reason to consider getting a season pass (instead of a fun pass) is to take advantage of the HUGE savings offered to ONLY season pass holders.

For example, on March 28, 2010 from 12pm to 4pm Pass Members are invited to spin for a chance to win exclusive SeaWorld merchandise or $20 gift cards to Lowe’s. (My daughter and I spun to win at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo this past February…lots of fun…)

FREE iPhone Apps | Retailers, News, & More!

Posted on March 9, 2010 by *Geekette*

Why would someone who doesn’t have an iPhone want to write a post about iPhone apps?! Simple, I have tons of friends who have iPhones AND I’m really good at digging up unknown things on the web – why limit myself?! Included in this post are the things I would look up for myself, and just want to know (including 35 iPhone apps you might not have known existed!)

Apple Deals

Did you know?! Apple now offers an Out-of-Warranty Service program that allows you to bring in your iPhone that would otherwise be ineligible for warranty service (for example stopped working but physically intact, water-damaged, cracked screen, etc.) and they’ll replace your iPhone with a new or refurbished iPhone for the Out-of-Warranty Service fee listed below:

iPhone 3GS	Out-of-Warranty Service
16GB & 32GB	$199
iPhone 3G	Out-of-Warranty Service
8GB, 16GB	$199
Original iPhone	Out-of-Warranty Service
4GB, 8GB & 16GB	$199

*As of 3/8/2010 – it just can’t be shattered into a million pieces

Clearance Section - Check out the clearance
Educational Deals – Apple offers educational discounts for college students and faculty and staff at all grade levels to purchase Mac computers, Apple software, and select accessories at special prices.

iPhone Apps Directory (online for easy browsing)

iTunes iPhone Apps w/o iTunes complete listing

Staff Picks for their Favorite iPhone Apps

Overstock iPhone App:

Pear Analytics – Website Analyzer – iPhone App:

Website Analyzer allows you to quickly run an analysis on any website within about 30 seconds. Each site is scored from 0 to 100 and color-coded for easy explanation. You get a detailed report with simple explanations of each feature of how to improve your SEO (search engine optimization) capability.

Zyrtec Allergy iPhone App:

The ZYRTEC® AllergyCast gives you the allergy and weather info you need to help. LOVE THE AIR..

Get the allergy forecast for today and tomorrow.
Know the top allergens to watch out for.
See the hourly, daily, or 10-day weather forecast plus the relative humidity.
Save your favorite locations then view them on a map along with the pollen levels for each.
Access details for ZYRTEC® products for adults and children.

WOAI News iPhone App:

The San Antonio, TX news experience you.ve been waiting for is finally here! Catch the latest news, sports and weather wherever you go with the WOAI Mobile Local News application. Mobile Local News takes the best features from the WOAI newscast and Web site and rolls them into a mobile experience that is a must on your iPhone and iPod.

KENS San Antonio News iPhone App:

Keep up with what’s happening in San Antonio with KENS 5 San Antonio on your iPhone and iPod Touch. The KENS 5 San Antonio application gives you news updates, the latest weather forecast, video, local sports info, movie show times and more – all at your fingertips.

Sky Mall iPhone App:

bebe iPhone App:

The bebe Mobile application allows iPhone and iPod touch users to quickly browse, search and purchase products available on bebe.com using a simple, yet stylish, interface. bebe clients have full access to their existing cart, payment and shipping options.

the Fray iPhone App:

*$1.99 – but I <3 the Fray…

Dragon Diction – iPhone App:

*I also use the software for my computer and LOVE it!

Dragon Dictation is an easy-to-use voice recognition application powered by Dragon® NaturallySpeaking® that allows you to easily speak and instantly see your text or email messages. In fact, it.s up to five (5) times faster than typing on the keyboard.

Skype iPhone App:

With Skype on your iPhone or iPod touch you can call and instant message anyone else on Skype for free. You can also call landlines and mobiles and send SMS anywhere in the world, at great rates. Skype is free to download and easy to use.

AT&T myWireless Mobile iPhone App:

AT&T myWireless Mobile allows you to manage your AT&T wireless account from your iPhone or iPod Touch devices.

McCormick Recipe Finder iPhone App:

Never again be stumped for a delicious recipe idea. The McCormick Recipe Finder has a collection of over 1,000 trusted recipes, developed and tested by our kitchens.

The Weather Channel iPhone App:

The New York Times News iPhone App:

Take the high-quality news and information of The New York Times with you on the go.

Bloomberg iPhone App:

Bring the power of the most trusted source for financial information to your iPhone, along with tools to help you analyze the world’s markets.

TV.com iPhone App:

The TV.com application allows you to search and access millions of videos no matter where you go – now with more full episodes of shows!

Showtime iPhone App:

Discovery Channel iPhone App:

With the FREE Discovery Channel iPhone application you.ll get new videos, daily news stories, quizzes, photos, TV schedules and more. Illustrating the world in all its wonder, diversity and amazement, Discovery Channel creates the highest quality content to ignite your curiosity, immerse you in the how and why, and satisfy you with information.

IMDb iPhone App:

IMDb is the world’s largest collection of movie, TV and celebrity information. IMDb is the leading app on the iPhone and iPod Touch to find US showtimes, watch trailers, browse photo galleries, get US TV listings, find latest DVD releases, explore popular charts and share movie info.

ABC News iPhone App:

Take ABC News with you while you’re on the go! Get one touch access to Top of the Hour video news briefs, local videos and weather, daily top stories and pictures, breaking news, emergency alerts and more.

Best Buy iPhone App:

The current version brings you all of Best Buy’s weekly deals, and more. Visually browse or accurately search our entire inventory. Dive deeper into each product through ratings, reviews, related items and enlarged views. Fill and manage your favorites and shopping cart on your phone.

Sports Illustrated iPhone App:

Stay current on the hot sports news and topics of the day with Sports Illustrated’s free application for the iPhone and iPod Touch. SI’s world famous writing and photography get delivered directly to your device along with the latest scores of your favorite pro and college teams.

CNN iPhone App:

*NOT Free – $1.99

Dictionary.com iPhone App:

Dictionary & Thesaurus at your finger tips!

Wikipedia iPhone App:

Wikipedia is now officially on the iPhone! This is our official application and we are working hard on making the absolute best Wikipedia app out there.

NASA Official iPhone App:

The first official NASA App invites you to discover a wealth of NASA information right on your iPhone or iPod Touch.

Google Earth iPhone App:

Hold the world in the palm of your hand. With Google Earth for iPhone and iPod touch, you can fly to far corners of the planet with just the swipe of a finger. Explore the same global satellite and aerial imagery available in the desktop version of Google Earth, including high-resolution imagery for over half of the world’s population and a third of the world’s land mass.

Urbanspoon iPhone App:

*I love this app!

Can’t decide where to eat? Urbanspoon can help. Shake your iPhone and the Urbanspoon slot machine will pick a good restaurant for you to try. Keep shaking until you find a restaurant you’re happy with.

Kayak Travel Discounts iPhone App:

KAYAK for the iPhone connects to kayak.com, the best travel search engine in the world. Compare hundreds of travel sites at once.

Southwest iPhone App:

Traveling with Southwest Airlines is now even more convenient with our first iPhone app. Make reservations, check in for flights, and access your Rapid Rewards account directly from your iPhone. Plus, our iPhone app has DING! functionality built in, giving you instant access to exclusive, limited-time-only air fare deals.

Meebo iPhone App:

Meebo is integrated, all-in-one instant messaging that connects you with your friends everywhere.

Target iPhone App:

Walgreens iPhone App:

With the official Walgreens iPhone app, there.s a way to order prescription refills on-the-go and prints of the photos you just took on your phone. You can also find your nearest Walgreens and the week.s hottest in-store savings on your way to the store.

Macy’s iPhone App:

The Home Depot iPhone App:

Hope this was a helpful post! I enjoyed finding out more about iPhone, I love my MacBook!

February Deals, Coupons, and Online Sales

Posted on February 18, 2010 by *Geekette*

I just posted a lot of February deals, online sales, and printable coupons. Over 35 discounts for stores, restaurants, online websites, and more! Something for everyone, especially if you missed Valentine’s Day or Chinese New Year and are still looking for a gift! I enjoy taking advantage of all the great deals available and definitely want to share the wealth. Although sometimes its worth paying retail (look for a future blog post on just that topic…)

Enjoy!

2010 Chinese New Years

Posted on February 13, 2010 by *Geekette*

Tomorrow isn’t just Valentine’s Day…it’s also the Chinese New Year (it falls on Feb. 3 in 2011!) Make sure that you start the new lunar calendar with these good luck charms for a long and prosperous year:

Traditional Family Dinner – family comes from all around to celebrate the New Year together. After dinner the red envelopes are given out.
Red Envelopes – gifted to newly weds and elders to singles and children, common tradition to gift red envelops containing chocolate coins or cash. $6/$8 are considered very lucky numbers, wishing a smooth and wealthy year, respectively. Also, the amount given, determined by the 1st digit ($80 is even, $700 considered odd…), is always even, as even digit numbers are considered lucky.
Red Underwear – get your red underwear out! The color red is commonly worn in an attempt to scare away evil spirits and bad fortune. New clothes symbolize having enough to wear new beginnings. { Victoria Secret’s Coupon FREE Panties }

*Chinese New Year lasts 15 days.

Chinese Astrology Sign {Sheng Xiao}

Figure out what your Chinese zodiac sign reveals about you, determined by your birth year. Those born this year of the Tiger.

How the Chinese Zodiac Came to Be:

When it came time for the Jade Emperor in heaven to decide the order of the zodiac, he invited all the animals to participate in a race. The order of the zodiac would be decided by the order in which animals finished the race.

When the competition started, the ox was leading the pack, but the rat jumped on his back. Since the rat was so light and small, the ox did not realize that the rat was hitching a ride. As the ox approached the finish line, the rat leap off his back and was crowned as the first animal to complete the race.

After all the creatures finished the race, the order was finalized: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig.

My Chinese Zodiac is the Rat:

Check out snippets of my fairly [VERY] accurate profile:

Personality: Occupying the 1st and most prominent position on the Chinese Zodiac, the Rat symbolizes such character traits as wit, imagination and curiosity. Rats have keen observation skills and with those skills they’re able to deduce much about other people and other situations. Overall, Rats are full of energy, talkative and charming but they have a tendency to become aggressive.

Rats are full of good advice but they will never share their troubles with others. They are honest individuals and they enjoy living for the moment. They’re also capable of surviving any situation.

Routine halts their creativity so Rats need flexible positions that allow creativity.

Not nearly as self-confident as they appear on the surface, Wood Rats [based on the year you were born] will never expose this vulnerability to others. They’re successful despite their perpetual fear of failing.

*I’ll buy that!

Chinese New Year Crafts and Activities

Martha Stewart’s Chinese New Year Show this year. Or last year’s resources on Chinese New Year Table Settings.

Chinese New Year place setting crafts

Pingg’s Chinese New Year ecards

Crayola is also offering their online community these incredibly cute crafts:

2010 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

Posted on February 13, 2010 by *Geekette*

After being gifted with FREE box tickets to the rodeo this year I thought I should do my homework on my greatly appreciated prize!

Last year the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo was attended by over 1,300,000 poeple!! During that time they raised almost $1,800,000 in scholarships during the Livestock and Horseshow exhibitors! In 2009, they were also inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, CO. (For more fun facts about the Rodeo check out: Fun Facts)

When: The 2010 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo will last from February 4th through February 21!

Where: 3201 East Houston Street, San Antonio, Texas 78219
View Larger Map

Grounds Hours & Admission Prices:

*OPEN EVERYDAY (8am until between 10pm & midnight)

Adult – $7.00
Senior Citizen (ages 60 & over) – $5.00
Children (2 to 11 yrs of age) – $3.00
Children (under 2 yrs of age) – FREE

*Season Grounds Pass (unlimited grounds admission for 18 days) – $20.00 by stopping by the ATT Center SW Box Office, calling 210.225.5851, or emailing tickets@rodeo.com (or visiting HEB business centers!)

Carnival Hours

If you’re going to enjoy the carnival, take advantage of these offers! My daughter and I ALWAYS enjoy going to the carnival!

Friday, Feb. 5th (Dollar Day): 11:00am
Monday – Thursday: Opens at 4:00pm
Friday, Feb. 12th (Dollar Day): 11:00am
Monday, Feb. 15th (Dollar Day): 11:00am
Friday, Feb. 19th (Dollar Day): 11:00am
Saturday & Sunday: 11:00am

Stock Show & Rodeo Family Fair

Area of the Stock Show & Rodeo grounds which provides a wide variety of interactive activities and attractions geared towards family fun, education and live musical entertainment. All venues located in Family Fair have the same hours of operation (see below).

My daughter and I really enjoy the Pig Races…I remember selecting a pig to win when I was young and the tradition has continued with her!

Sunday through Thursday: 10am – 9pm
Friday and Saturday: 10am – 10pm

Helping Others

What to help someone else? Special ticket programs!

Business charity program helped over 2000 individuals last year! Choose your favorite charity and give generously! Your contributions can also support the military and wounded and injured soldiers!

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Deals

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo offers an incredible time for friends and family, especially those that take advantage of THESE offers:

GREAT DEALS

Rodeo Feast!

Get tickets through Ticketmaster or call 1-877-63-Rodeo:

http://www.ticketmaster.com/San-Antonio-Stock-Show-and-Rodeo-tickets/artist/804262

4 rodeo tickets ($10 level), 4 hot dogs, 4 chips, and 4 sodas for $49!

Fan Appreciation Night!

February 9th and 15th, purchase two rodeo tickets and get nachos FREE!

February 9th and 15th, purchase two rodeo tickets and get nachos FREE

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days: Fridays ONLY (2/5, 2/12, 2/19)!

$1 grounds admission from 8am-6pm, rides, hot dogs, popcorn, and sodas in carnival $1 ALL day long!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days: Fridays ONLY (2/5, 2/12, 2/19)! $1 grounds admission from 8am-6pm, rides, hot dogs, popcorn, and sodas in carnival $1 ALL day long!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days!

College Days Thursdays only, Feb. 4, 11, 18…free admission to grounds with current college ID!

College Days Thursdays only, Feb. 4, 11, 18...free admission to grounds with current college ID!

Free USAA Military Fridays!

Current and former military receive free grounds admission every Friday during the Rodeo, courtesy of USAA!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Text Alerts!

Get the latest San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo news alerts, exclusive offers, and event information on your mobile device!

Text RODEO to 50927!

Get the latest San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo news alerts, exclusive offers, and event information on your mobile device! Text RODEO to 50927!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo iPhone App in iTunes!

– Stock Show and Rodeo iPhone App –

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo iPhone App in iTunes!

Dollar Admission: President’s Day – Feb. 15, 2010!

Monday, Feb. 15th, $1 grounds admissions!

!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Senior Day!

Free grounds admission for anyone over 55 years on Tuesdays, Feb. 9th & 16th!

!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Entertainment

http://www.sarodeo.com/sarodeo/rodeo_concert/2010entertainment.html

Entertainment from past rodeos: http://www.sarodeo.com/client/media/80/3608/rodeo_performers_all_time.doc

http://www.ticketmaster.com/San-Antonio-Stock-Show-and-Rodeo-tickets/artist/804262

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Entertainment Linueup

!

Rodeo Events

Send an E-Card

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Stock Show and Rodeo

Become a Fan on Facebook

Follow @SanAntonioRodeo‘s tweets!

Myspace

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie | Laura Numeroff

Posted on February 4, 2010 by *Geekette*

I got home from work and needed to relax so I decided to see what my tweeps were talking about on Twitter. I was going through the tweets when I saw one from @JoshGroban asking:

If I’m not familiar with the series, should I begin with If You Give A Mouse A Cookie or If You Give A Moose A Muffin?

And so of course, anyone familiar with Laura Numeroff‘s beloved books, illustrated by Felicia Bond, which started in 1985, would know that you have to start with “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie”. So I tweeted back to @JoshGroban (just to let him know, along with his many other followers) and decided to write a blog post about what a great children’s book series it is…

If You Give a… Book Series

After deciding to write about it, I realized that it would be great to include information about the author so I googled “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” and found a link to the publishers website for each book at Harper Collins (link to If You Give… series). Of course I knew that I couldn’t write a blog post without looking at each of the following books:

Includes a link to an audio excerpt, the critic’s corner, and a link to the books’ official website: MouseCookieBooks.com.

Help Pig find her way to a pile of pancakes with this printable activity…when you’re done with that, help Pig look for hidden words with this activity.

This cool Cat comes with a complete activity kit filled with many different printables, If You Give a Cat a Cupcake stickers, and a coloring sheet.

And if you decide to throw a pig a party, you might want to have printable activities to pass out to your guests:

Pick the Correct Pig sheet
Pig Party Event Kit filled with activities and suggestions.

Online Games

Once I made sure I had read all of the books, I wanted to see the If You Give… books official website.

You can play a matching game that starts off more easily with Mouse’s Little Matching Game but you can work yourself up to a bigger challenge with Pig or Moose.

After matching, you can play more education games, Mouse’s Counting Game, Pig’s Letter Game, and Moose’s Shape Game.

If you’re like me and the Cat with the Cupcake rocks your world the most, you might want to play the If You Give a Cat a Cupcake Game in order to win a very special recipe!

Teacher Resources

And if your getting you child ready for school, you’re going to want to check out this interview with the author and book activity which is not only fun but a great way to get your kids excited about school.

And if you want to get your child excited for school, you might want to help their teacher discover these incredible fun resources like this classroom activity guide for teachers which includes fun lesson plans for many different school subjects. And if you’re already doing a lesson plan on the books, you might want specific worksheets like this specifically for If You Give a Cat a Cupcake book.

And if you have already spent all of this time writing a blog post, you’re going to want to see what’s been happening on Twitter. And if you check your tweeps’ tweets, you might get the idea for another blog post.

2010 Super Bowl XLIV Party | Game Day Deals

Posted on February 3, 2010 by *Geekette*

Since I already made a couple of posts for Valentine’s Day sales and activities it would be discriminatory of me to exclude the 44th Super Bowl this Sunday, February 7th, 2010 at 8pm CST at Land Shark Stadium in Miami, Florida on CBS.

*May I also just wish Peyton Manning the best luck! Cheers to a player who’s old-school, who plays each game with incredible enthusiasm and passion (and he still calls his own plays!) I <3 Peyton! Go Colts!

versus

Super Bowl Resources

Espn
@nfl follow the NFL tweets!
NFL Players on Twitter - check out this list of 259 NFL players, leagues, and sports writers and follow their tweets during the big game!
Sirius Satellite Radio lists tons of pre/post game stations
NFL.com
Martha Stewart offers a very nice Super Bowl 101 course for those less versed in football vernacular. (My fantasy football team placed 2nd this year so I’m fluent. ;-D)

Restaurants & Food

Recipes

Reader’s Digest
Pillsbury Food Coupons
Martha Stewart
Food Network

Restaurants

Roaring Fork is offering buy one entree, get one free with happy hour prices at the bar all night long on game day!
Paloma Blanca is offering 20% off to-go, delivery, and off-site catering on Super Bowl Sunday!
Aldacos is oferring party sized Super Bowl savings.
Papa Johns is a proud official sponsor of the Super Bowl, sign up for their email specials!
Pizza Hut is offering all kinds of local deals!

Party Supplies

Invitations could only be done by Pingg! Not to late to keep track of your invitations and setup a Super Bowl party with super classy online invitations.

Supplies

NFL Shop is offering 20% off when you use NFLWIN20 at checkout!
Party City has all of your party supplies!

Super Sales

Newegg is offering super savings on HD TVs, speakers, and everything else electronically enhancing!
Pottery Barn has personalized gift options for the big Super Bowl fanatic in your life.