SeaWorld San Antonio Fan Search

Websitehttp://www.seaworldfansearch.com

SeaWorld San Antonio wants your pictures!  You could instantly become a “local celebrity” if your fan photo is featured on a digital billboard!

Starting this Friday, May 28, 2010 through the remainder of the year, you’ll be able to take fun, happy pictures at SeaWorld San Antonio, upload them to the Fan Search website, vote on your favorites, and enter to win, multiple times!

Based on the number of votes, SeaWorld is looking for pictures that embody having a GREAT time at their park!  Come with film (SD cards) and a huge smile!

Seaworld San Antonio Fan Search

Twitter@SeaWorldTexas

Facebookhttp://www.facebook.com/SeaWorldSanAntonio

Flickr:  SeaWorld San Antonio group

2010 Earth Day Printable Activities and Crafts for Kids

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 40th anniversary of Earth Day either…check out these activities throughout the year!

PBS Kids Earth Day

PBSKids.org has dedicated:

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!

2010 Earth Day Printable Activities from Lakeshore Learning

Earth Day Celebrated by Children’s Publishing Companies

Harper Collins Children Publishing Co.

The children’s book publishing company offers:

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

  1. It’s Earth Day | Little Critter

    Its Earth Day | Little Critter

  2. The Greenest Day | My Little Pony

  3. Every Day is Earth Day | Fancy Nancy

  4. Biscuit's Earth Day Celebration

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!

2010 Earth Day Printable Activities and Crafts for Kids

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

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

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)

Lowe's Build and Grow Woodworking craft

Valentine’s Day Jewelry Box Craft

Lowe's Build and Grow Woodworking craft

Birdhouse Building Kit

Lowe's Build and Grow Woodworking craft also available for purchase

Lowe's Build and Grow Woodworking craft

2010 Fiesta San Antonio

Starting in 1891 with one parade, Fiesta has exponentially expanded into an incredible city-wide celebration lasting 11 days with more than 100 events (benefitting more than 100 local nonprofit organizations!!) and 3.5 million people take place!  Read more about or the history


2010 Fiesta Events

Get the latest Fiesta news

  • Frequently updated with interesting information
  • Posters from the past 29 years

Volunteers

Fiesta Store

Fiesta Transportation

Social Media and Contact Information

  • Traditional Contact Information includes by phone (210-227-5191), fax (210-227-1139), mail (The Fiesta San Antonio Commission | 2611 Broadway | San Antonio, TX 78215-1022)
  • Twitter – @FiestaSA
  • Facebook Fan of Fiesta
    • Fiesta Flambeau Parade fan
    • Fiesta Cornyation fan
    • Fiesta Arts Fair fan
    • A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA) fan
    • Fiesta Oyster Bake fan

    YouTube
    Mobile Version of website

Tickets

  • Tickets to parades
  • Other Events (can be purchased at the Fiesta Commission office for the following events:
  • NIOSA main page ticketsAdvance Tickets (Online/Mail – DEADLINE for BOTH by April 11th)
    • Adults $10.00
    • Children $1.50

    Purchases at the Gates (open at 5:30 p.m.):

    • Adults $12.
    • Children $ 2.
    • Children under Six: FREE
  • Fiesta Carnival Sign up for discount coupons!

    Dollar Days – Wednesday, April 14 & 21, ALL rides are only $1 each, all day!

    Discount Wristband – purchase at HEB before April 13th!

  • Coronation of the Queen
  • Battle of the FlowersFrom Friday, March 26, 2010, tickets may be purchased in person at the Fiesta Store, 2611 Broadway, 78215.  Hours are 10 am to 6 pm Monday – Friday, 10 am – 3 pm Saturday.
    • Battle of Flowers Band Festival Tickets
      • $7.00 for box seats
      • $5.00 for reserved seats
      • $4.00 for general admission
      • $2.00 for students

    Beginning Friday, March 26, 2010,  tickets may be purchased in person at the Fiesta Store, 2611 Broadway.  Hours are 10 am – 6 pm, Monday – Friday.  Saturday 10 am – 3 pm.  Tickets will also be available at the Alamo Stadium Box office on April 21 and 22, 2010.

  • Fiesta Cornyation (Cornyation Inc.) on Ticketmaster
  • Fiesta Gartenfest (Beethoven Maennerchor) (become a Fan on Facebook)
  • Fiesta Oyster Bake (St. Mary’s University Alumni Association)*Tickets are $20 at the gate and $16 at ALL HEB stores AND the Fiesta San Antonio commission office

    { PDF } 2010 Fiesta Oyster Bake Information Packet

    *100,000 oysters were consumed last year

  • Fiesta in Blue (USAF Band of the West)
  • Incognito Ball (Urban-15 Group) tickets
  • King William Fair (King William Neighborhood Association) helpful FAQ
  • A Taste of New Orleans (San Antonio Zulu Association)$12 at the gate, $10 advance purchases from HEB
  • WEBB Party (San Antonio AIDS Foundation) check out their brochure and think about VIP tickets!

2010 Fiesta San Antonio events and information

2010 Six Flags Fiesta Texas Coupons

My sister’s birthday is coming up and we’re thinking of spending the day/night at Six Flags Fiesta Texas! This blog post not only includes coupons and current offers but important links to make your day at Fiesta Texas as easy and fun as possible! Of course I can’t make a purchase without making sure there aren’t coupons…here’s what I found:

$15 off Coupon for Admission to Six Flags Fiesta Texas

{ SanAntonioRiverwalk.com Coupon }

*Valid through November 21, 2010

Six Flags Fiesta Texas - $15 Off Coupon

Everyone Pays Kids Prices – $34.99!

{ Pay Kids Prices }

*Valid through November 21, 2010

Six Flags Fiesta Texas - Pay Kids Prices

  • Buy one general use ticket, get one FREE!
  • Next day FREE
  • Buy one, get one free – Monday through Friday

Six Flags Fiesta Texas - Multiple Coupons

HEB Season Passalthough you can buy your season pass from HEB’s Business Center, it doesn’t look like they’re currently offering anything special.

Daily Tickets vs. Play Passes vs. Season Passes

*Click here to buy tickets.

Daily Ticket

  • One time ticket, take advantage of kid’s prices ($34.99)

Play Passes

  • Unlimited visits to ALL Six Flags Theme Parks ($49.99)

Season Passes

  • Unlimited visits to ALL Six Flags Theme Parks ($59.99)
  • 4 FREE tickets for friends (for use on THESE special days)
  • Coupon book worth $300

Group Rates

  • Groups of 15-99 Purchase tickets by March 31 and pay our Early Bird price of $21.99+ tax per person.
  • Tickets purchased after March 31 pay only $24.99+ tax per person.

Online Meal Deals

  • Save money and time by buying meals (individual/group) online at a discounted rate

Calendar of Events

  • See what’s coming to Fiesta Texas!

Social Media

If You Give a Moose a Muffin | Magik Theatre

The Magik Theatrehttp://www.magiktheatre.org

Phone: 210.227.2751

Directions:  420 South Alamo, San Antonio, Texas 78205  { Map }

Hopefully you read my other post on the beloved Laura Numeroff “If You Give a…” series that includes tons of printable education resources, online games, and party supplies related to the books that started with “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie”…if not check it out!  While you’re at it, if you live in San Antonio, check out their most recent play, David Morgan’s adaptation of “If You Give a Moose a Muffin”…which includes tons of funny scenes (for kids AND parents.)

Check out all the shows planned for 2010!

The Magik Theatre also offers teachers a downloadable PDF for classroom study.

Get Tickets

February 16 – March 20, 2010
Tuesday – Friday 9:45 am & 11:30 am
Friday at 7 pm & Saturdays at 2 pm

Order tickets here.  If you get the Entertainment 2010 coupon book there’s also a buy one, get one free coupon included in the book!

Check out this video preview:

SeaWorld San Antonio Coupons

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

Save $4 off one day admission to seaworld san antonio

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…)

San Antonio Pass Member Advantages coupons at seaworld san antonio

Azul: Lure of the Sea | Seaworld San Antonio

Thanks SeaWorld San Antonio for the VIP evening to remember!  During this latest preview, SeaWorld San Antonio debuted their newest show, Azul!  Officially opening March 12, 2010, “Azul” will replace “Viva’s” 8 year stint.  (I personally have seen Viva at least 15 times (a low estimate of 5 times a year)…)

Not only does this show feature original compositions from Germany and Montreal, it also incorporates gravity defying acrobatics, beautiful Pacific white-sided dolphins and beluga whales (including the adorable mommy and baby beluga pair).

After being wined and dined, VIP (VERY Important Person) style, Dan Decker SeaWorld San Antonio’s Exec. Vice President and General Mgr. (@DanJDecker) graciously welcomed everyone to Beluga Stadium (which included the Social Media Club San Antonio - my group!! and other hospitality and local tourism groups.)

Azul: Lure of the Sea follows a curious (and FUNNY!) tourist through his magical adventures in the sea…and did you know…I just found out the comic is actually married in real life to the acrobat-girl who soars gracefully through the air.

Park Hours & Show Times found here.

*Click on the date to see that day’s show schedule.

Annual Pass Coupons

Facebook Fan: http://www.facebook.com/SeaWorldSanAntonio

@SeaWorldTexas Tweets: http://twitter.com/SeaWorldTexas

—–

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Blog: http://www.seaworldparksblog.com/

2010 Chinese New Years

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:

  1. Traditional Family Dinner – family comes from all around to celebrate the New Year together.  After dinner the red envelopes are given out.
  2. 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.
  3. 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}

Chinese Astrology: Animals of the Chinese Zodiac

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

2010 Chinese Zodiac Animal is 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:

Year of the Rat Chinese ZodiacPersonality: 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

send pingg's chinese new year ecard collection

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

Celebrate Chinese New Year, or your favorite story, with this dramatic dragon! Celebrate Chinese New Year, or explore the country's fascinating art and culture, with this colorful Golden Chinese Dragon drawing.

2010 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

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 MapSan Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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

Dillin the Armadillo Texas Ranger, scoot around and throw your badge at wolves, foxes, and his arch nemesis the farm truck!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Stock Show and Rodeo

Become a Fan on Facebook

Follow @SanAntonioRodeo‘s tweets!

Myspace

First Annual Lemonade Day in San Antonio, TX

Last summer, while visiting my sister in Houston, I vividly remember reading a front-page story that made me so excited!  It was about Lemonade Day, sponsored by Prepared4Life.org (P4L), a program the entire city of Houston supports that encourages kids to become young entrepreneurs, from kindergarten through the 12th grade, by teaching the fundamentals of business and financial planning.

Lemonade Day is a citywide program designed to teach children how to start, own and operate their own lemonade business.2010 lemonade day san antonio prepared 4 life organization

My daughter, imaginative and resourceful, has always wanted her own lemonade stand.  This program not only gives kids (many from high-risk neighborhoods) the opportunity to have a stand of their own, but empowers them with important planning information to maximize their potential for success.

It provides an opportunity for families, businesses, faith-based community organizations and schools to come together for a common purpose – to train the next generation of entrepreneurs through a free, fun, engaging, experiential activity.

Prepared 4 Life Lemonade Day San Antonio, TX

When:  May 2, 2010 | First Sunday in May

Background Information

Originally started in Houston by Michael Holthouse (the founder of P4L) a master entrepreneur himself.  After creating a company that surpassed the $100 million mark, 6 years after starting it from scratch (Paranet),  Holthouse created:

He created the Holthouse Foundation for Kids to help at-risk children acquire the skills and habits they need to become successful adults…He and his wife, Lisa, later founded Prepared 4 Life, a non-profit organization that started by offering after-school programs for at-risk middle-school children in Houston.

He got the idea from his daughter who woke up early in the morning, excited to start her own lemonade stand.  Together they put together a business plan taking into consideration marketing, location, and paying back her investors and from the ashes Lemonade Day was born:

The ideas was to give kids an engaging workbook that would guide them through the process of setting up a stand.  An adult member would help walk each child through the process, but would be asked to leave most of the problem-solving to the kids…It would teach young kids the nuts and bolts of entrepreneurial startups: setting goals, planning for success, securing a loan, choosing locations, procuring supplies, making their product, and turning a profit.

San Antonio TX Lemonade Day's Backpack Pickup Locations

Every Lemonade Day participant picks up a bag at a local station that includes a workbook for the kids and another one for the parents.

Although the kids are allowed to keep all of their profits, their encouraged to not only pay back their investors, they also are encouraged to donate a portion of their profits to a charity of their choice.

Exponential Success Over the Past 3 Years

Lemonade Day 2007

Lemonade Day 2007 - 2600 Participants

Lemonade Day 2008

Lemonade Day 2008 - 11,232 Participants

Lemonade Day 2009

Lemonade Day 2009 - 27,389 Participants

Lemonade Day San Antonio

Check out San Antonio’s local website: http://sanantonio.lemonadeday.org/home

Contact information (local & national):  http://sanantonio.lemonadeday.org/contact-us.aspx

*I’ve had the pleasure of working with Sara from the CE group who is San Antonio’s project manager for this HUGE undertaking!  By using the link above you can also contact her for more information on sponsoring, volunteering, etc.

**Local Restaurants - our volunteers will need refreshments!  Join the movement by donating meals/snacks for volunteers, your location could become a Lemonade Day backpack pickup location!

Sign Up Here!

I’ll be updating with more information as I get it as well!

- 2010 Lemonade Day | Informational Video -

- 3rd Annual Lemonade Day | Houston, TX -

Listen to why all the kids LOVED Lemonade Day in Houston, TX last year!


I Love Lemonade Day from Geekette Bits on Vimeo.

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie | Laura Numeroff

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:

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

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.

If You Give a Cat a Cupcake

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.

More information from the publisher about If You Give a Pig a Party

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.

More information from the publisher about If You Take a Mouse to the Movies

More information from the publisher about If You Take a Mouse to School

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.

Valentine’s Day Printable Activities and Crafts for Kids

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

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 !

Fun, Educational Resources for 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics

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.




Fall Deals of the Week

In order of Halloween, Deals of the Week (DoWs) have a certain seasonal flair.  Discounts include photos, costumes, food, candy, and other fun tricks and treats.  A lot are for parties – not even Halloween related…stock up for office or classroom parties!

Amazon.com’s selling Nestle, Mars, and Wonka Candy for a great discount!

Amazon’s Halloween Headquarters lets you save $10 on Select Costume Orders over $50 from

Breyer’ Yogurt – Get a coupon good for a FREE YoCrunch Yogurt when you mail any Halloween Candy wrapper to: Shaina Zalma / YoCrunch / 9507 Santa Monica Blvd., Ste. 300 / Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

Nestle Family save $1.00 Off Any Bag of Nestle Candy + $1.00 Off Wonka Candies when you register or sign in to print your 2 coupons for these candies.

Oriental Trading is offering 20%off any order now through Oct. 29, 2009 use coupon code SW1019778.  Ground shipping sent today (Oct. 20th will be delivered by Oct. 26!)

Party City is offering all kinds of $10 off on $30 or more, 50% off Halloween Supplies, KidsPatterned Tableware online w/ Coupon code: PCBARBIE10 and Coupon code: PCWELCOME50, respectively, exp. 12/31/09.  Don’t forget to follow @PartyCity and on Facebook.

Sears lets you take 40% off Halloween costumes w/ $5.00 OFF $25.00.  Coupon code: S5OFF25.

Spirit Halloween is offering all kinds of Halloween deals, don’t forget to follow them on Twitter @spiritonline and fan them on Facebook.  Use the following to save $5, $15, $30 on entire purchase w/ SAV5, SAV15, and SAV30 respectively.  Also take 20% off any single item, online with coupon code: SOCIETY, exp: 10/31/09, print here.

SplendidLife.com is offering a free Gift Cookie Cutter Set with Purchase AND 25% OFF with Free Shipping!!  Coupon code: AFOCT and NEWS.

The Scholastic Store is offering 10% off all online AND free shipping for purchases over $25!  Use coupon code SSHLWN by Oct. 26th!

Walgreens is offering 20% off Halloween Costumes, Accessories & Décor w/ coupon code: PUMPKIN, Exp: 10/27/09.

Walgreens Photos is also offering 25 FREE when you purchase 25 using coupon code EXTRAFREE by Oct. 24th.  Walgreen’s mailing list frequently sends out good offers.

Yankee Candle – $10 Off a $25 Purchase (Online+ In-Store) exp. 11/14, coupon code: H4XFOP.