Tag Archives: Free!

Valentine’s Day Printable Activities and Crafts for Kids

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While I was finishing my last post on Valentine’s Day sales and promotions I was already mentally writing this one.  With Valentine’s Day only slightly more than two weeks away, I figured I better hurry up and find some great children activities for the holiday we love to love.

I assumed my favorite children’s websites for printable activities would have special crafts online, available to download.  I was right! In no particular order here are some fun activities for children and other thoughtful resources for parents.

PBS Parents Valentine's Day Resources printable valentine's day kids crafts

PBS Parents offer lots of ideas to get you in the holiday spirit.  For parents are several links to various articles and resources about feelings, diversity, and other characteristics that are perfect to teach around this time through books and games, as well as recipes to share with your family.

PBS Kids Valentine's Day Resources and online games

PBS Kids includes printable activities, coloring pages, and e-cards of all your favorite, educational friends.  It also lists information about special programming on February 13th with the heart-filled theme.

Martha Stewart Valentine's Day Resources and crafts printable valentines crafts

Depending on how ambitious you’re feeling, check out Martha Stewart’s website for kids activities.  (Here for more adult sized activities…not that adult… ;-P)  Includes everything from cards, cute packaging, candies, and soap!  Very cute and surprisingly easy to put together.  Be prepared for printing the templates…I made several of them successfully. Some I gave up.

Here are four of the 27 Valentine’s Day crafts

Valentine's Day Crafts Valentine's Day Crafts printable valentine's day kids crafts Valentine's Day heart activity Valentine's Day Crafts paper folding printable valentine's day kids crafts

Index for all Martha Stewart activities online for Valentine’s.

nick jr valentine's day activities and online games

Nick Jr’s Valentine’s also jumped on the Valentine’s Day bandwagon with their dedicated site too.  The front page is an advent calendar that your child can return each day to click different dates for a fun surprise to open.  Grouped by week, view previous weeks and come back each week to unlock more.  My daughter’s favorite, Olivia, remains to be unlocked!

Check out the resources for parents here too.  Or let Max and Ruby help you plan a classroom party or soiree for friends.

All Valentine’s Day printable activities for many different ages…I have always been very impressed with Nick Jr.’s printable activities…they’re definitely a step higher than most.  I hate the ones that only offer coloring pages, my daughter doesn’t stay entertained with coloring but crafts will keep her busy for hours!

Kid Coupons

Chuck E Cheese is offering this FREE printable Valentine card w/ a coupon for 5 FREE tokens.  Your child can give all of their friends 5 tokens while saying Happy Valentine’s Day!  Expires 3/2.

Love Deals | Valentine’s Day Sales

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Before it’s too late, take advantage of these 2010 Valentine’s Day deals that make you fall head over heels with saving money, all over again!  Categorized by Flowers, Chocolates, Gifts, Party, Dining, and Dress, there is someone for everyone, those with a Valentine and those looking to save a buck!  Includes freebies like 25 songs from iTunes and much more!

Continue to check back as I’ll add more as I come across them!

valentine's day 2010 deals

Flowers

ProFlowers is offering a dozen roses and 12 free chocolates!

Chocolates

Reese’s Pieces To receive your coupon, complete this order form and send along with one complete candy bar wrapper from: HERSHEY.®S SPECIAL DARK® Dark Chocolate Bar, ALMOND JOY® Candy Bar, YORK® Peppermint Pattie or REESE.S® Peanut Butter Cups. HURRY. your request must be one of the first 25,000 received and post-marked by 2/17/10 to qualify!

Ghirardelli is offering another sinfully delicious deal for Valentine’s Day!
Use CJ15 at checkout to receive 15% off your purchase! Also enjoy free shipping over $50!

Godiva Chocolate is offering FREE 32 pc. Milk Chocolate Gems on Shipments >$50!

My M&M’s lets you save 14% off your order with promo code: VDAY14.

using promocode VA1019751 at checkout to save 20% off your entire order! Now through 2/11!

Amazon’s sweet deals save you $10 when you spend $49 or more…expires Feb. 15th, use VALCANDY at checkout.

Gifts

Walgreens is wishing their customers Happy Valentine’s Day with Free Shipping for orders over $25, use LOVE25 through Jan. 30!!

Shutterfly is offering 40% off your entire order! Enter FORTY at checkout and get free shipping for orders over $30 with SHIP30!

Sephora is offering a something to pucker up about, normally $65…now only $25!

Bath & Body Works use promocode 20PERCENT at checkout 1/31.

JCPenney to take an Extra 15% OFF Select Fine Jewelry with 15HEARTS at checkout!

Pillsbury sign up to receive the Pillsbury® email newsletter, access exclusive member benefits on Pillsbury.com, and receive a FREE* Pillsbury® coupon booklet with $10 in valuable savings!

Valentine's Day Half Price Books Coupon for 20% off! Half Price Books is having a Book Lovers Weekend – use the printable coupon to save 20% off your entire purchase!

Party

Party City is offering FREE Shipping with PCSB65 at checkout!

The Popcorn Factory is just another GREAT way to save “I LOVE YOU”! HRT5 at checkout saves you $5, now through Feb. 14th!

Harry & David is offering a $5 coupon! Doesn’t have to be Christmas and pears…enjoy Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day savings!

Dining

Krispy Kreme Buy a Dozen Donuts, recieve 12 FREE Valentine’s with coupons for free! Also, did you know that whenever their window light is lit they’re giving away FREE glazed donuts! @krispy_kreme

BJ’s Brewhouse s offering $5 off $20 food purchase, use printable coupon or 2010 at checkout now through 2/12!

Macaroni Grill is offering free Appetizer with purchase of two Entrees! Doesn’t expire until March 2010!

Dress

Urban Outfitters offers “20% off $50 Purchase, use THINKSPRING now through Feb. 14th! Also on their homepage, text HAITI to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross Relief AND download and listen to 25 tracks, FREE! UO Music List !

VERY Popular Household Product Coupons!

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Save over $30 in coupons and freebies!

Lots of printable coupons and online offers and games from Proctor and Gamble’s finest household products!

Hover over each image to find out what each household item offers coupons for!  Click on each image to find out the most recent offers, coupons, and sign up for their email newsletters!

*Check back throughout the year as websites’ update their promotional offers!

Fun, Educational Resources for 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics

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If you’re looking for game schedules, freebies, athletes that tweet, and other details about this year’s Winter Games, check out my other blog post, 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.  As I was writing that post I ran into incredible education resources and fun stuff for kids…I wanted to keep it separate and figure out which was worth investigating.

This post is dedicated to the educational opportunities for teachers and kids being offered online!  I have found links to online games, printable worksheets and coloring pages, and also information that I definitely didn’t expect to find preschool aged children through the 12th grade!  Emotionally connect your family and students to the 21st Winter Olympics with these resources!

Meeting the 2010 Olympic Mascots

2010 Olympic Mascots

From left to right, meet snowboarding Miga, Quatchi who loves playing hockey, and Sumi.

***Find out when you can meet them LIVE!

Mascot

Meaning Behind Choice
Quatchi the SasquatchQuatchi the Sasquatch The sea bear is inspired by the legends of the Pacific Northwest First Nations, tales of orca whales that transform into bears when they arrive on land.The Kermode bear is a rare white or cream-coloured sub-species of the black bear that is unique to the central West Coast of British Columbia.
Sumi the Animal SpiritSumi the Animal Spirit Transformation is a common theme in the art and legend of West Coast First Nations. Transformation represents the connection and kinship between the human, animal and spirit world.The bear often represents strength and friendship. And the thunderbird — which creates thunder by flapping its wings — is one of the most powerful of the supernatural creatures.
Miga the Young Sea BearMiga the young sea bear The sasquatch is a popular figure in local native legends of the Pacific West Coast.The sasquatch reminds us of the mystery and wonder that exist in the natural world, igniting our imagination about the possibility of undiscovered creatures in the great Canadian wilderness.

Online 2010 Olympic Games & Activities for Kids

Game

Details
Miga Moves Mascot Rockband, match the letters V/B/N/M in time to falling starfish!Difficulty:  MediumThis one takes some keyboard coordination…older kids (and adults) will really enjoy!
Soaring SumiVancouver winter Olympic online games: Soaring Sumi Keep Sumi flying across Canada by hitting the spacebar to move up!  Fly up or down to avoid obstacles and hit health points!Difficulty:  EasyEasier than most games, simple hit spacebar without worrying about other keys/mouse.
Shootout ShutoutVancouver winter Olympic online games: shootout shutout Face off against Miga and Sumi in some fast-paced one-on-one hockey!Difficulty:  HardThis game takes the MOST coordination, not only do you have to use LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to move back and forth as the goalie, you also have to use the 1-3 number keys that correspond with colored pucks.  Definitely for older kids.
Operation RecycleVancouver winter Olympic online games: operation recycle Help Miga, Quatchi, and Sumi with their neighborhood recycling program!Difficulty:  Easy/MediumAlthough it does not require a lot of coordination it does require some thought.  Complete rounds by successfully finishing 5 levels.  Includes a little physics, test your trajectory skills by holding the mouse button down and dragging to aim towards target!

*My 6 year old daugher enjoyed this game the most!
Which Mascot Are You LikeVancouver winter Olympic online games: which mascot are you like Take this quiz to see which mascot you’re most like…your child’s first personality test…next stop Meyer-Briggs! :)

Other Fun Activities:

Send E-cardssend 2010 winter olympics ecards Select 1 of 4 mascot scenes, decorate VERY easily, add verbage, and send to family and friends!
Crafts and Color Printables2010 winter olympics crafts and color printables Download and print craft activities (make 3-d mascots!!) and get printable coloring sheets
Download Desktops & Wallpapersdownload 2010 winter olympics desktops and wallpapers Download (for Windows only…) an interactive desktop to decorate with stickers, information about the ceremony, add an Olympics countdown, and much more…Download static Wallpapers for those that desires less interactivity.  :)

Paralympic Games

Sumi is officially the mascot of the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Game…check out this printable passport activity book to track his and your journeys!  After printing out those, print out this printable coloring sheet to color your own Sumi!

Featured Programs

Check out these fun facts about the Paralympic Winter Games (pdf).  Although Paralympic School Week in School has already passed officially (November 2-6, 2009) you can still support the Paralympic Games any time.  Resources for educators found on the official games website here.  Here’s the link to the “Guide for Educators” to celebrating in your skills with informative details, activities, and other helpful stuff.

Educational Resources

The Canadian Olympic School program seeks to inspire young students through Olympian stories, activities, projects, activities and more and offers:

  • Teacher Resources for educators with printable PDFs, videos, pictures, and more!
  • Student Lounge geared towards school aged kids
  • Playground for Younger Kids means you don’t have to be in school to catch the spirit with additional games, puzzles, and contests.
  • Library section to answer all your kids’ questions

School-Aged Kids: Additionally there are these printable Olympic Games Project Packs pdf.  Includes additional resources for teachers or your kids:

Passing the Torch Activities:

Topic

Details
Math & Science Grades 4-7Discover the math and science behind the Olympic Torch and the Olympic Torch Relay Route.
Social Studies Grades K-3, 4-7, and 8-10Learn more about your community and Canadian heritage through Olympic Torch Relay themed lesson plans.
Language Arts Grades 1-7 and 8-10Explore how the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay will bring Canadians together in the spirit of peace, unity and friendship.
Physical Activity Grades 1-7 and 8-10Get your students active in the spirit of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.


Make Your Own Peace

This is a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about practicing peaceful behaviors and making peace in their home and communities.  Starting on February 4, 2010, check out “Sharing the Dream” webcasts inspired by the Olympic Truce and led by children.




2010 New Year’s Sales

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Happy New Year’s Eve!  Check out these 32 retailers that are offering New Year’s sales that start today and last throughout the next couple of days, many lasting through the month of January!  Enjoy and happy shopping!

I hope that your new year’s resolutions was to save money at the start of the year because this is a GREAT place to start! :D

Expiration Retailer Deal Promo Code
1/2/2010 Walgreen’s Photos 9 cents per 4×6 print 50 prints to qualify
1/2/2010 Banana Republic Save Up to 40% Off + Extra 20% Off Reduced Items BREXTRA20
1/3/2010 New York & Company 30% off sale items 4710
1/3/2010 Amazon Video $4 Amazon Video on Demand credit, FREE! AVODGIFT
1/3/2010 Cole Haan 30% Off all sales CH30SALE
1/4/2010 DKNY 40% off entire purchase
1/4/2010 Victoria’s Secret $15 Off $100, $30 Off $150, $75 Off $250, $150 Off $500 purchase SP1020029
1/4/2010 DSW $20 off $99 purchase NYGIFT
1/4/2010 ESPRIT 30% off full priced merchandise NEWYEAR
1/4/2010 Coldwater Creek 60% Off Your Entire Order WKH8281
1/7/2010 Delias FREE shipping, 80% off clearance SHIP75D
1/7/2010 Vera Bradley 10% off winter items 10offsale
1/8/2010 Jelly Belly Up to 75% off
1/9/2010 Office Depot $10 Off $50 Purchase (In-Store, Phone, Fax, Online) 75265240
1/10/2010 Lucky Brand 50% off sale online; in-store
1/17/2010 Payless Shoes $10 off $50 (online) or 15% off (in-store) 30314
1/18/2010 JCPenney $20 Off $100 CAWBLAPC
1/21/2010 Frederick’s of Hollywood $15 OFF $100 or $30 OFF $150 or $75 OFF of $250+ AXKDISC
1/23/2010 Yankee Candle Save $10 Off $25 Online + In-Store Print Coupon JW82BK
1/27/2010 Time Life 21% off one item YEAREND
1/31/2010 Ace Hardware $20 off $100 w/ Mastercard MCACE20
1/31/2010 Old Navy $10 off $50 purchase printable coupon
1/31/2010 Sears $5 off $50 purchase CPNALBUM
1/31/2010 HP $15 off $75 purchase SVN9846

I couldn’t find specific expiration dates for these so buy before it’s too late!

Godiva Chocolate up to 50% off sale
Pac Sun’s 50% off instantly clearance items, FREE shipping over $75 purchase automatic
White House | Black Market 20% off order 8884
L.L. Bean up to 50% off sale
Pizza Hut Any pizza $10
Dockers Online up to 50% off sale WELCOME3
Lego Extra 10-25% off sale BSCV29
PreNexa FREE pregnancy journal subscribe

Christmas Countdown Freebies & Deals

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With less than 25 days until Christmas, I wanted to post an advent calendar of deals and activities.  I wanted to post ways to save or kill time until the big day comes!  This post will include links to other sites offering daily freebies as the countdown continues, it also has activities for young and old to take advantage of!

In no particular order…Merry Christmas, Frohe Weihnachten, Mele Kalikimaka, and Joyeux Noel!

ABC’s Family 25

Days of Christmas

 Offers special holiday programs from December 1st through December 25th.  Get into the spirit a little more every day.

Check out Disney Dreaming for the corresponding Christmas album and become a fan on Facebook!
Christmas Organization Some people start getting excited for Christmas 100 days out!

Check out 100 Days to Christmas for over 400 printable lists and planning tools, fun ideas, and a new blog post everyday to help inspire, sponsored by ListPlanit.com.
FREE iPhone Apps courtesy of BlackSmithGames.com, every day until Christmas on Appvent Calendar 09.

Each game is only free for THAT day but you can already see what you’ve missed!  Check back until Dec 25.  Follow them on Twitter.
Daily deals until Christmas Some of these sites will only last until Christmas, some continue on through the years, all of these sites offer GREAT daily deals:

  • Overstock – 25 days, 25 deals until Christmas

Daily Deal, All Year Round

Christmas Cookies

 Going to a Christmas cookie party?  Want to make a new cookie everyday for 25 days?  Epicurious.com offers 25 Days of Cookies.

If you’re not happy with that list there are websites dedicated to the top 25 Christmas cookies like this one or this one!  Not top 25, Food Network has 12 Days of Cookies.

Restaurant.com

 Wants everyone to spend their Christmas countdown with Feed It Forward. You can give up to 30 of your friends a FREE $10 gift certificate that can be used at any restaurant.com’s restaurant.

Don’t feel like going to the website?  Use the Facebook app to give your friends something every day!

Scrapbookers

 Scrapbook much?  There are a ton of blogs that are offering free and severely discounted deals on scrapbook templates, supplies, printables like ScrapArtist and this FREE download from Weeds and Wildflowers Design.

Seasonal

Screensavers

 FREE desktop and iPhone screensavers from Little Dreamer Designs.

Readers Digest

 Check out their offers for a free December/January edition in addition to 10 FREE electronic editions.  Come back every day to see what big prize you might have one!

Regardless of big wins, you’ll get FREE holiday Christmas music.  Their holiday section rocks with every article you’d ever want – including 25 things Santa won’t tell you!

Also download free printables, great recipes, and laugh at funny Christmas cartoons!

12Days of Whataburger

 Sign up for the 12 Days of Whataburger offers a coupon for 1 FREE item from Whataburger a day until December 24!

I just got my first offer in the mail and it’s pretty tasty!
SephoraClaus.com

 Wants you to tweet your Sephora Christmas wish every day until December 19th, anything from their store up to $150!

Watch your tweet wish float to the bottom of the screen.  They’re granting wishes and sometimes they do come true!

Macy’s Believe

 Christmas website offers Santa stationary, gift giving guides, and an incredible opportunity to easily contribute to the Make-A-Wish foundation.

For every Dear Santa letter dropped off at your local Macy’s mailbox and they’ll donate a dollar, up to 1 million!  Vote for your favorite entry on why people “Believe”!

Check out their app on Facebook!





Buying Gift Cards? Get Rewards!

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With great discounts, online shopping, and busy schedules, it’s hard to know what to get your friends and family for the holidays…and then make time to go find it.  Gift cards can still be an incredibly thoughtful gift without taking up too much space or time.  Since you’re going to be getting the gift cards anyways (or if you want to save additional money when you make purchases for yourself…) check out these great seasonal offers that will not only bring a smile a friend to the person receiving the gift, but also the one giving:

UPDATED 12/11/2009 with EVEN MORE offers found:

Store Offer Expires
Got Hair Salon $10 giftcard w/ $50 giftcard purchase
Victoria Secrets Create a Victoria Secrets wishlist to be entered to win $250 giftcard 12/21/2009
Carino’s Italian $5 reward w/ $25 giftcard purchase Limited, In-store
Macy’s Girls named Virginia get $10 giftcard; in-store ONLY 12/11
Shops at La Cantera $50 rewarded for every $150 spent; valid whereever American Express is accepted 9am-12; 12/12
San Francisco Marriot $50 shopping card per day 2/8/2010
Souper Salad $5 giftcard with every $20 giftcard purchase
New York & Company 10% off coupon w/ giftcard purchase 12/24/2009
Overstock.com Spend $125 on your Mastercard to receive $20 credit

UPDATED 12/4/2009 with MORE offers found:

Store Offer Expires
Denny’s $5 card with $25 gift card purchase 12/31/2009
Foot Locker $10 reward card w/ each $50 gift card purchase 12/20/2009
Fox and Hound $5 reward card with $20 gift card purchase 2/28/2010
Half Price Books $5 coupon for every $25 spent on gift cards 12/24/2009
Kids Foot Locker $10 reward card w/ each $50 gift card purchase 12/20/2009
Scenic Loop Café & Bar $5 gift card w/ $50 giftcard purchase, $10/$100 12/31/2009
Subway Free cookie with in-store $10 purchase 12/25/2009
The Palm $50 card with every $250 giftcard purchase 1/15/2009

Previously mentioned, STILL GOOD, gift card purchase rewards!

Store Offer Expires
Abercrombie & Fitch $25 gift card with every $100 purchase
Barnes and Noble Free $10 gift certificate for every $100 purchase 7-Dec
Cadillac Receive $50 AMEX Gift Card for Test Driving a Cadillac
California Pizza Kitchen $20 CPK Rewards Card with $100 in CPK Gift Cards purchase The Holidays
Coinstar Exchange $40 for a certificate and get extra $10 card for free 6-Dec
CVS Get $5 eGift Card for Every $25 eGift Card
DSW $10 Bonus Card with $50 Gift Card Purchase 24-Dec
Godiva Free $10 shopping card for every $50 purchase 24-Dec
IHOP $5 Coupon Off Next Visit with $25 Gift Card Purchase 3-Jan
L.L. Bean Free $10 Gift Certificate with $25 Purchase 1-Jan
Morton’s Steakhouse $100 Gift Card when you buy a $500 giftcard 31-Dec
Outback Steakhouse Free $20 Gift card & Free Music Download w/ Purchase of $100 31-Dec
P.F. Chang’s $10 Guest Card with Every Purchase of $50 in GiftCards 31-Dec
Romano’s Macaroni Grill Free $5 gift card with $25 purchase 31-Dec
Smash Burger Free $5 gift card with $25 purchase
The Limited Free $10 Rewards Card for every $50 Gift Card Purchase
Toys R Us Free $10 Gift Card with Purchase of Any 3 Cans of Enfamil Powder Formula 24-Dec

Black Friday Starts Now!

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Although I originally wanted to blog about Black Friday ads, plan of attacks, great deals I personally was excited about I ran out of time as worked sucked the life out of me this month!  Just kidding boss…

Anyways, since I now have a second to breathe I am finding all kinds of exciting deals and information and thought I would share it with the class while there is still time.  I don’t mind if I’m the only one who uses this post because essentially it is my notes and random Black Friday finds that I want to keep track of somewhere.  Since I’m already listing everything in notepad I figured I might as well share it with the world!

Last year I used BFAds.net the most because of its consumer buying guides (suggestions, best deals, and great comparisons on Laptop, TV, camera, Top 10 Toy Deals, etc.) and extensive collection of ads.

Favorite Black Friday Website: BlackFriday2009.com

This year I’ve been tempted away by BlackFriday2009.com by their beautiful layout, inclusive information of the latest ads, hand-picked deals, and accessible blog.  When I’m reading their blog I feel like Brad Wilson (founder of both this site and bradsdeals.com) is talking directly to me, telling me that I should take advantage of this site versus that.

Starting as a deal seeking college student, I feel like Brad and I relate…a lot!  I love deals, and his Black Friday blog.  Watch what he said CNBC about shopping this Friday and also read his Top 10 Best and Worst (weirdest) deals…both really good!  It also easily shows the store hours for each of the stores listed, great for planning reconnaissance!  He doesn’t just find the deals…he explains which store is best for which product…saving a lot of time and money for all!

Become a fan on Facebook and follow their tweets about sales.   Don’t forget to sign up for their email list.  Remember, you’re not just signing up for this year, you’re preparing for next year!

Black Friday Links I like

Retail Me Not’s Black Friday list is massive and encompassing.  I check this site for promo codes before I buy anything online, check it out for other Black Friday ads.

The following links are not necessarily the obvious Black Friday ads (check out the websites listed above for the big name stores and offers!)  These links are to stores and deals I don’t think people know about or thought to check.

Black Friday’s Already Begun – Shop Now!

Amazon:  They have specials throughout the week; check out their calendar of deals for movies, toys, and other awesome items!  As always they’re also continuing their Gold Box offers.

Charlotte Russe:  Online the entire store is 25% off NOW through Friday when the entire store is 25% off in-stores, and also get a free mini wallet for purchases $40 or more.  Free online shipping for orders over $60!

Dell:  Save money already on high performance machines, electronics, and accessories!

Entertainment:  If you haven’t already bought an 2010 Entertainment Book for your child’s fundraiser, get one this week (see my other blog post to see what’s so good about it!)  Now it’s 30% off AND free shipping!

Express:   Save 20% off for the next 2 days (Wednesday and Thursday) and save!  (Coupon code: 4389 was also listed in my email, might be a better savings then direct website.)

Leap Frog:  Another site that’s already started, buy some great education toys at great prices!  Starting now enjoy a savings of 25-75% off!  Free shipping for orders over $50!  Now through 11/30 you’ll also enjoy getting an additional $10 off orders over $100!

New York & Company: EVERYTHING is 50% off right now (offer starts in-stores on Friday!)  Enter promotion code 1609 on the shopping bag page at checkout and choose standard shipping.

Oriental Trading Company:  Save 20% off orders $49 or more, now through 11/28, just enter “WCX8719” at checkout.

Smart Home:  Check out their Black Friday shopping starts now and continues through Cyber Monday!  Have you ever wanted to automate your house?  Control the downstairs lights from your computer or cell phone?  Preheat your oven from your car?  Remote control thermostat?  Start here!  Don’t forget to become a fan on Facebook and follow their tweets!  Products up to 45% off!

Sears:  Another store that’s already started it’s savings offers, shop now for Black Friday savings today!

Sun & Ski Sports:  Has offers for Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday!  50% off clearance items, 60% off snow items, quantities are limited, shop fast!

Walgreens:  Coupon code BFRIDAY valid through November 28, 2009 to get $10 OFF your $50 online purchase!  Select Snuggies only $8, online Friday ONLY, limit 2 per person!

Black Friday Starts on Thanksgiving!

Academy Sports:  Although their doors open 5am and last to 11am on Friday, they’re also offering additional savings on Thanksgiving and through the weekend so they made it into this section.

Bass Pro Shop:  Opened on Thanksgiving at 8am!  Check out their 4 day sale starting on Turkey Day and continuing through 11/29.  Also check out their 5 hour sale on Friday from 6am to 11am.  Don’t forget to check out Santa’s Wonderland, now through 12/24, my daughter and I went and had an incredible time!

Big Lots: Check out their sales on Thanksgiving (cause they’re opened!!), Friday, and Saturday!  Doors open 7am on Thursday, 6am on Friday, and 8am on Saturday.  There is also a $10 off coupon that can be used ALL 3 days!  NOTE:  Join their Buzz Club for additional 20% savings, year round and other awesome offers!!

Starts Black Friday Friday!

*Actually starts on Friday, November 27th, 2009 unless otherwise noted!

HEB:  Starts at 5am on Friday and 6am on Saturday, check out what’s selling at HEB!

IKEA:  My favorite store in the entire world is also offering 1 day of extreme savings!  Click on the link to see offers for Friday and also Saturday and Sunday deals!  Also print out their coupon for free breakfast before 10:30am, Friday through Sunday.

P.F. Chang:  Do you get hungry while you’re saving tons of money?  Save more by mentioning the phrase “Lettuce Wrap Your Gifts” on Friday and Saturday between 10am and noon to get their lettuce wraps for FREE!

Tuesday Morning:  Starts at 8am although you can shop online here on Thanksgiving Day and get FREE shipping (through November 29th!)

University Co-op:  I would be remiss (and beaten by UT friends) if I didn’t include their in-store offers.  Doors open on Friday at 8am!

WoW: Online Gaming Gives Back

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Website of the Week: http://www.gamesthatgive.net

Games that Give is a website I recently found through UNICEF USA’s Facebook updates…it takes advantage of the money made from advertising online while people play games online and gives 70% of the revenues back to the 14 organizations it currently supports!

Hover over images to read a quick summary of each organization, click on the image for more information:

The website launched in August 2008 and also has a corresponding Facebook app!  The more you play online (and the better you do), the more you make for the charity of your choice!

All you have to do is sign up for a new user account, select your favorite charity, and start playing one of the currently 12 games available!  I love the interface, simple, sharp, and the game selection is ideal.  You’re going to be playing blackjack, solitaire, and some of the other popular games on your computer anyways – play AND give back to the community!

If you want to know more details check out their blog or their extensive FAQ section.  Learn more details about how they got started, who their most recent corporate sponsors are, and other questions you might have!

Once registered with the site, easily send out notifications to your email contacts, also encouraging them to play!  Right now my chosen charity is UNICEF USA and it tells me how many immunizations my online game time has bought for kids in need!

Finally, another fun feature of the gaming site, there’s even a “Click if the Boss is Coming” button that automatically pops up an image of a word document!  (Love those buttons!)  Play incognito to support the cause!

DoW: Awesome Online Deals & Coupons this Week!

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Haven’t done this for a couple weeks, check out the coupons for the next week .  Some of the coupons don’t expire until the end of the year.  In no particular order I give you OVER 20 great online deals and printable coupons to your favorite stores, restaurants, and websites!

Academy Sports: Free $5 Gift Card When You Join Birthday Club.

Arby’s: Free Regular Roast Beef Sandwich with Any Soft Drink Purchase.

Arby’s: Free Swirl Shake w/ Roastburger Purchase.

Borders: 30% Off Any One Item Online and In-Store Coupon.  Coupon code: BSW6854N.

Coinstar: Exchange $40 for a certificate and get extra $10 card for free.

Cracker Barrel: $5 off $20 Coupon.

Disney Store: 20% OFF Your $89- Purchase (online).  Coupon code: DISNEYFAN09, Exp: 11/15/09.

DSW: $10 Bonus Card with $50 Gift Card Purchase.

Gap Give & Get: Not just the GAP, also includes Old Navy and Banana Republic.  Take 30% OFF Purchase & 5% Will Go to Charity (In Store).

Hobby Lobby: 40% off any one regular priced.

Hot Topic: $10 off $20 Coupon Code.  Coupon code: HTBD1109, Exp: 11/30/09.

Kohl’s: 30% Off Entire Purchase w/ Kohl’s Card.  Coupon code: NOVKC30, Exp: 11/18/09.

New York & Company: Extra 30% Off Coupon + Free Shipping for Orders $65 or More.  Coupon code: 3886 (30% off) Coupon code: 3048 (Free Shipping with $65+ orders).

Office Depot: Take $10 OFF $40 (print+online).  Coupon code: 32624010, Exp: 11/21/09.

Outback Steakhouse: Free Blooming Onion w/ Purchase by becoming a Fan on Facebook!  (1st 500,000 fans…).

Reebok: 25% Off Friends and Family Sale with free shipping, valid in both Store and online.  Coupon code: FRIEND, Exp: 11/15/09.

Restaurant.com: 80% off gift certificates.  Coupon code: ENTREE, Exp: 11/12/09.

Sports Authority: Friends & Family Take 25% OFF A Single Item (print+online).  Coupon code: TSA25FF, Exp: 11/22/09.

Target Grocery: Save $15.75 In-Store with Printable Coupons.

Target: Over $450 in Coupons for Toys (In-Store and Online).

World Market: 15% Off Home Decor & Gifts + 10% Off Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages.  Coupon code: PEEK, Exp: 11/15/09.

DoW: Best deals, coupons, and online/instore offers this week!

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Check out over 20 great online coupons, in-store coupons, and other great offers going on this week and on!

Best DoW (Deal of the Week):

American Cancer Society: When you pay $29.99, not only does 100% of your purchase go to the American Cancer Society, but you also get $700 worth of coupons, upgrades, and gift certificates for a fraction of the cost, instantly!!  As soon as your online transaction has completed you’re emailed a list of items you purchase included, including promotional codes for immediate online access!

You also have the ability to donate additionally to the American Cancer Society!

$29.99 will buy you:

1  FIRST 2500 BUNDLES ONLY! Papa John’s: $10 Gift Card

2  Restaurant.com: $25 Gift Certificate

3  Skype: 1 Month Unlimited* US & Canada Subscription

4  Trend Micro: AntiVirus plus AntiSpyware 2010

5  Gap: $20 off $100 purchase at Gap.com

6  TripIt: 6 Months of TripIt Pro

7  ZAGAT: 3 Month Subscription to ZAGAT.com

8  Corel: Photo Album 7

9  PETCO.com: $25 Coupon off $100 Purchase

10  Hotels.com: $50 Off a 3 Night Stay

11  1-800-Flowers.com: $20 Savings Pass

12  Snapfish: 16×20 Poster

13  Evernote: $25 off Evernote Premium

14  WinZip: Winzip 12.1 Standard

15  Shoebuy: $10 Gift Certificate

16  Threadless Tees: $5 Coupon

17  Collectorz: Movie Collector – Standard Edition

18  Nordstrom: $20 Rebate with a $100 Purchase

19  RoboForm Pro

20  Mozy: 50% Off One Year of MozyHome Unlimited

21  Playfirst: Diner Dash

22  ImTOO/Xilisoft: 3GP Video Converter

23  Foxit: PDF Creator

24  CircuitCity.com $10 off $100 purchase

25  Dropbox: 3 Months of Dropbox Pro (50GB)

26  CyberLink: MediaShow 5

27  Picnik: 6 Months of Picnik Premium

28  23andMe: $50 Off the Full Edition

29  Lancôme: Free Shipping on ANY Order Plus Four Deluxe Samples

30  SmugMug: $25 Off a SmugMug Account

31  PopCap Games: Bejeweled 2

32  GoDaddy: 1 Domain

Other great deals and coupons, in alphabetical order!

  • Austin City Limits Music Festival: offers their digital sampler MP3 for download which features 16 artists!  Code: LT4JHL9LXXFP exp. 10/31
  • Babies R Us: Up to 70% Off All Clearance Nursery Furniture + $100 Off Crib Collections (In-Store) exp. 10/15.
  • Big Lots: take 20% off entire purchase (in-store printable) 10/5/2009 through 10/10/2009 with coupon.
  • Express: up to 70% off sale + extra 20% off clearance items Coupon code: 4490
  • Jelly Belly: $5 off $25, $10 off $50 Coupon code: 5OFF ($5 off $25), Coupon code: 10OFF ($10 off $50).
  • Jiffy Lube: Save $5 at Jiffy Lube with this coupon through the end of the year!! Exp 1/1/10. *Print out a couple of these coupons out and leave in your glove box!
  • Joann: 40% Off Any One Regular-Priced Item (In-Store Printable coupon) .
  • Michael’s:  40% Off Any One Regular Price Item (In-Store Printable) Exp. 10/14
  • Naturalizer: 30% off with NO minimum purchase…Coupon code: FFJ39.
  • Nautica: 50-70% off Final Sale +Additional 20% off , $20 off + Free Shipping on Men’s Sweater Coupon code: FINAL20, Exp: 10/11/09.
  • Office Depot: $10 Off a $40 Purchase (Online,In-Store, Fax, Phone) Coupon code: 10646773, exp: 10/10/09.
  • Oriental Trading Company: $10 Off $30, $20 Off $69 + Free Shipping Coupon code: HE1086658, Exp: 10/15/09.
  • Oriental Trading Company: 20% Off Any Item Coupon code: HE1052223, exp. 10/15.
  • P.F Chang’s: 10% Off Your Bill For The Rest Of The Year (Warrior Card Holders). Follow their tweets on @pfchangs and become a P.F Chang’s fan on Facebook.
  • The Children’s Place: 20% off online Coupon code: J69RC46TW99, Exp: 11/01/09.
  • The Children’s Place: 20% Off Online Coupon Coupon code: J69RC46TW99, Exp: 11/01/09.
  • Victoria’s Secret: $15 off $100, $30 off $150, and more + Free Shipping on $100 Purchase Coupon code: FA918649, ($15 off $100, $30 off $150, $75 off $250, $150 off $500) Coupon code: FA919069, Exp: 10/30/09. *Free Shipping over $100
  • Victoria’s Secret: free VS panties with any purchase AND $10 Off Any Full-Priced Bra (In-Store)
  • World Market: 10% Off In-Store for you and a friend… save 10% on the next purchase from 10/03/09 – 10/10/09.
  • Yankee Candle: $10 off a $25 Purchase (Online + In-Store) Coupon code: H4XFOP, Exp: 10/31/09

Trends the Flu’s Setting this Fall

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In order to get the information, health updates, and alerts that you’re concerned about, check out the social media playground this season’s flu is playing on.  I’ve consolidated 12 Flu Tweeps to follow, Facebook pages to fan, and other websites that offer awesome, easy to understand information about this proclaimed pandemic!

Flu Resources – Includes links to official government health and flu resources, information to share with co-workers

Social Media – Easily track influential outbreaks in your area (and internationally), follow Flu tweets, and get Facebook updates instantly AND directly from the government sponsored resources.

Flu Resource Websites


Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s website

H1N1

  • Free printable materials – includes flyers, posters, stickers, and toolkits.

CDC Social Media for H1N1

Flu.gov’s website

  • Interactive Maps – find state resources, news on seasonal and N1H1 flu, state health department RSS feeds and Twitter updates
  • H1N1

WHO’s H1N1 website

  • World Health Organization offers worldwide updates and news feeds including a RSS feed for the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009.
  • WHO news via Twitter @WhoNews
  • Information for individuals, businesses, FAQs, etc.

Flu Trending across the US, Australia, & New Zealand


Google Flu Trends – Google’s done it again!  Based on aggregated Google search data to estimate the current flu activity for the US, Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico (still experimental phase.)  You can track the United States or by state.

Flu-related and Informative Facebook Pages:


  • Flu.gov – Stream reliable, up-to-date information through Facebook!
  • CDC – just one of many social media tools provided by the CDC.
  • American Lung Association – Fighting to help you breathe better!

12 Official Flu Tweeps to Follow:


  • @FluGov – One-stop access to U.S. Government H1N1, avian and pandemic flu information.
  • @CDCEmergency – CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response: increasing the nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to public health emergencies.
  • @CDCFlu – For flu-related updates from the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention).
  • @whonews – World Health Organization’s (WHO) official tweets…get official news about the H1N1 pandemic, as soon as it develops!
  • @WSJHealthBlog – “The Wall Street Journal Health Blog offers news and analysis on health and the business of health.”
  • @riskcomm – bulletins from the WHO and PAHO (Pan American Health Organization).
  • @LungAssociation – “The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease.”
  • @pahowho – Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is an international public health agency with over 100 years of experience working to improve health and living standards of the people of the Americas.
  • @RedCross – “Official twitter stream for the American Red Cross. Follow us for disaster and preparedness updates.”
  • @Reuters_FluNews – “Reuters coverage of the emerging swine flu outbreak”
  • @PublicHealth – “The American Public Health Association works to protect Americans from health threats.”
  • @GetReady – “APHA’s Get Ready campaign is helping Americans prepare for all health hazards, including pan flu, infectious diseases, disasters and other health emergencies.”

Youtube:


Stream videos from official government health agencies:

DoW: Best Deals of the Week

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There are a lot of deals this week.  Over 20 ways to save this week, hurry though, a lot are only for one day, ending at the end of Monday, September 14th.  Hope it helps! :)

American Eagle: Take 15% OFF w/NO Minimum & No Exclusions. Coupon Code: 23856437, Exp: 09/30/09

ANN TAYLOR: Take 25% OFF Your Purchase. Coupon code: STYLE25, Exp: 9/14/09

Baby Gap: Semi-Annual sale, up to 40% off!

Bass Pro Shops: $20 off $100 purchase!

Borders: 30% off the list price of one book

Denny’s: Treat yourself this weekend with a free Fusion Favorite Drink with purchase of any entrée at Denny’s!

Joann: 40% Off Any One Regular-Priced Item

Justice/Limited Too: 40% Off Any Purchase.  Coupon code: 294, Exp: 09/14/09

Kohls: Coupon code: BABY20, Exp: 09/15/09

New York & Co: $25 off $75 or $50 off $150 purchase.  Coupon code: 3601, Exp: 10/05/09 or Coupon code: 3588, Exp: 09/21/09 for $30 off $75 or $60 off $150!

Office Depot: $10 Off $40. Coupon code: 51563582, Exp: 09/14/09

Oriental Trading: 20% OFF Any Purchase.  Coupon code: OTCSP2, Exp: 09/17/09!

OshKosh: 20% off $50 or more Printable Coupon

Paul Mitchell: Get FREE samples on their VERY cool wesbite!

Quiznos: Buy 1 Sub + Drink and Get 1 Free Sub

Rack Room Shoes: Buy 1 Get 1 50% ,$10 off $60 / $15 off $75!  Printable coupon.

Smokey Bones: $10 off $20 purchase at dinner.

Sports Authority – $10 Off $50, $25 Off $100 (Online/In-Store).  Coupon code: TSAFZXD, Exp: 09/13/09 or Coupon code: TSARURL, Exp: 09/13/09 for $25 off $100.

Steve Madden – Must-Have Fall Sale- Up to 40% off & Free Shipping.  Coupon code: SMFREESHIP

The Limited: Save 50% off Suits, 40% on Tops , 40% on Pants/Jeans/Skirts, BOGO for accessories!

Victoria’s Secret: EXTRA 20% off Clearance.  Coupon code: VSCLEAR20, Exp: 09/13/09

White House | Black Market: 20% OFF Entire Order + $20 OFF $125 + $50 OFF $200. Coupon code: 8884 for 20% OFF Entire Order OR Coupon code: 8917, Exp: 10/04/09 for  $25 OFF $125 OR Coupon code: 8916, Exp: 10/04/09 for $50 OFF $200!

DoW: Best Deals of the Week!

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Playing around with the easiest way to read the DoWs…this week, in alphabetical order:

Armani Exchange: 30% OFF Select Outerwear + $25 OFF $100 + FREE Shipping (online) – AXGLAMOUR

Bath & Body Works: 20% Off Your Entire Purchase (In-Store and Online) – 1203

Borders: 30% off the list price of one item –In-Store / Online – BHB9149B

Borders: Borders In-Store Super coupons exp. 9/13

$2 off kids toy or game

$2 off magazine

$2 off sci-fi or romance book

$3 off sports book

$3 off test-prep book

Carter’s: 20% off on purchase of $50, 50% off baby sale, $10 GC with each $25 you spend (In-Stores)

Denny’s: 20% off Breakfast

Express: 15% OFF Your Purchase (in store) exp. 9/22

Godiva Chocolate – $10 off $50 Online Coupon SAVED10, Exp: 09/14/09

Hot Topic: Extra 50% off Clearance

Joann.com – 40% Off 1 Regular Priced Item – Online Coupon – SED256, Exp: 09/13/09

Kohl’s: 4-Day Power Shopping Sale Up to 60% Off + Extra 10% Off NFL Apparel – SAVE10NFL exp. 09/13/09

Michaels: 50% OFF Any One Regular Price Item (In-Store) – exp 9/22/09

Mimi’s Café: $5 off $15 at coupon exp. 9/22

Old Navy: 20% OFF Any Purchase + Free Shipping over $75 (Use Old Navy/ Gap/ Banana Republic Card) – STUFF75, Exp: 09/10/09

Restaurant.com: 90% off – NINETY

Scholastic Store – Clearance up to 75% Off + 15% Off $39 and Free Shipping (Certain Items Excluded) – BTS2009, Exp: 09/14/09

Snapfish: FREE Shipping and 50 FREE Prints (New Accounts Only) – FREELABOR, Exp: 09/13/09

The Limited is offering 20% off your entire purchase “276”, exp. 12/31/09

Wet Seal: $9 deals + $0.99 shipping + Extra 10% off – WSTC0509, Exp: 09/10/09

Yankee Candle: Buy 1 Get 1 Half OFF & Stack with $10 OFF $25 (online) – K9HMPZ

DoW: Best Deals of the Week!

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money copy My WoW posts boast the best Websites of the Week, in an economy where the DOW and stock markets don’t always treat us well, my DoWs will!  Deals of the Week (DoW) will be coupons, discounts, and other deals I’ve found, and consolidated to one organized section.  Depending on what’s available I’ll include more or less in various sections of the post.

Retail

  • On 9/17-9/20, shop at participating malls, spend $75, show receipt at guest relations and get $10 gift card!
  • North Star Mall is offering 122 (as of this post, originally 500) $10 gift cards merely signup! Bring voucher to mall, 9/17 – 9/20!
  • Payless Shoes offers 20% off entire purchase using “33231” at checkout, expires 8/31!
  • Banana Republic taking off 20% of entire purchase using promo code: BRSAVE20.
  • Now’s the time to shop at New York & Company, 30% off entire order (promocode: 3060 including REDLINES!)
  • Express is offering $30 off $75 purchases, “3891” online…expires 10/12 (“3892” to get $15 off $30!)
  • Lucky Brand Jeans has a promo for 30% off entire purchase, just use “9SEPAFF“!
  • Take advantage of Steve Madden’s 20% all items, FREE shipping, until 8/31!

Gifts

  • Excited for football season? NFL is giving 25% off entire store merchandise to help pysch fans up – use “COMEBACK25” until 12/31!
  • Shop PBS and get 25% off ENTIRE order! Great education gifts, with meaning and support of PBS.
  • Barnes and Nobles offers 30% off one toys or games item, use “Y3M7K9X” to take advantage by 9/1.

Arts and Crafts, Party, Home Office

  • Michael’s offers 20% off ENTIRE purchase (8/30-9/5)!
  • Oriental Trading offers 20% off entire purchase – “SU1012427” by 9/3.
  • Office Depot has 15% off with NO minimum if you use “11533462” by 9/14.
  • Target is offering 10% entire online purchase, no minimum either, with “S6BP388J” by end of September.

Food

  • Be one of the first 250,000 people to join the Chicken Wave at Chick-Fil-A and get a FREE chicken sandwich.
  • Hungry? $1 off large Jack in the Box combo meal!
  • Several GREAT coupons from Marie Callender’s here (exp. 9/4) 20% off entire bill, buy one get one entrée free x 2.
  • Panda Express has 2 coupons, buy one get one free and 10% off $25 purchase, here.
  • Help Cheesecake Factory stamp out hunger, bring 2 cans of soup and the first 500 guest will get a slice of Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake, a gift, and enjoy listening to live music.

WoW: Google, You Talking to Me?

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Website of the Week (WoW): https://www.google.com/voice

Quick Bit: Imagine being able to pick your own number (mine ends in “BLOG”) that forwards to all of your personal, business, and cell phones. Depending on who calls determines which prerecorded voicemail they’ll hear. Unknown numbers will get a standard response, employees will get announcements for the day, family will get yet another.

Let’s say someone leaves you a voicemail and you’re in a meeting? Imagine that the service then transcribes the voicemail and sends it to you in a txt or email. The information is important for your husband’s travelling plans and without having to interrupt your meeting, you forward the email version to him. Too good to be true? Not for Google!

Although it’s invitation only right now, sign up to make this mobile fantasy a reality! (I have one account for my blog and one for my personal use and each took about a week to receive the activation link.)

Google Voice (an enhanced version of the original GrandStation site) offers a generous array of incredibly cool features! Although some are highlighted below, view the complete list here. Answer the call on your computer, switch midway to your cell phone.

The transcript service is not perfect but I’ve used it several times with very accurate messages. I like how you can setup multiple voicemails, groups, forwards, and email conversations immediately, I also like how it keeps track of the different call logs. I think it’s incredibly functional, especially for small businesses that would like to route calls in the best way possible. Even allowing particular numbers to reach a specific “message of the day” would be beneficial to many groups.

Google Supports the Troops: http://www.google.com/militaryinvite (loved ones overseas can now communicate for free to US numbers – call from computer to cells phones and send text messages.)

$$$-Saver(s):

  • Conference in multiple callers
  • Free calls to US & Canada phone numbers
  • Send/Receive/Store texts
  • FREE mobile apps – call for free from cell phone instead of using minutes

*One thing I would’ve liked for it to allow was registering for SMS texts from websites…5 digit numbers you text to subscribe to receive coupons from does NOT work right now. :-( I’ve commented on their blog and customer support forums, you should too!

Time-Saver(s):

  • Listen to voicemails as they’re being left, pick up midway through voicemail!
  • Automatically transcribes voicemails – read past voicemails, forward to a business partner in email
  • Listen to voicemail online or via normal phone
  • Personalize voicemails – greeting based on caller groups
  • Forward to multiple phones
  • Record entire conversations or start halfway through

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ (view search results nothing official looking…)

Twitter: www.twitter.com/GoogleVoice

Blog:
http://googlevoiceblog.blogspot.com/