Tag Archives: seasonal

Stores Offering Crafts and Activities for Kids this Summer | 2010

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

Bass Pro Shop

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

Bass Pro Shop Family Summer Camp Activities and Crafts

When: June 5 – July 11

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

Cost: FREE

Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics

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

Lowe's Wood Craft

When: Indefinitely, not just for the summer!

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

Cost: FREE!!

Home Depot’s Kids Workshops

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

Home Depot Wood-working craft

When: Indefinitely, not just a summer thing!

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

Cost: FREE!!

Lakeshore Learning Store

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

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

Lakeshore Learning Store crafts and activities for kids

When: Indefinitely, not just summer!

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

Cost: FREE!!

Target Arts + Cultures

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

Pottery Barn Kids Book Club

When: Indefinitely, not just for the summer

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

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

SeaWorld San Antonio Coupons

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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

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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

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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.

Valentine’s Day with a View Contest at The Westin La Cantera Resort

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As soon as I heard about The Westin La Cantera Resort‘s Valentine’s Day with a View contest I was VERY excited to enter.  I love to read wonderfully romantic stories (i.e. Chicken Soup for the Soul: True Love), watching unrealistic “chick flicks” on Netflix’s instant Romance queue, and reading romance novels (not of the graphic variety)…more like all of Kristin Billerbeck‘s fun, witty romance series.  (I couldn’t write this post in good conscience without including helpful links and fun facts.) ;-)

Valentine's Day with a View Westin La Cantera Resort Contest

*Besides my blog post on Valentine’s Day deals, check out Buxr’s Valentine’s Day deals here.

<Perfect Valentine’s Day>

5 Critical Components

Although I’m low-key enough to enjoy ANYTHING, making whatever we did special, my homework assignment was to blog about the PERFECT experience…that would easily be achieved by including the following in our itinerary:

1 – Flowers Delivered in a Box (purchased w/ a coupon!!) – there’s something terribly romantic about getting flowers that you weren’t expecting that were delivered in a box.  (Think old-school Hollywood…)  Enough said.

2 – The Fray – my favorite group since they arrived on the music scene in 2005 with How to Save a Life I have loved their lyrics and melodies.  Part of perfection is knowing you’re with someone special who appreciates all your idiosyncrasies, including fanatical infatuations with bands other people (insanely?!) are less excited by.

3 – Lamb Chops – I never understand people who think of “eating away your money” in a negative context.  I truly enjoy great culinary experiences.  I savor each bite and literally experience a Pavlovian reaction whenever I read menus!  My ideal Valentine’s Day would include lingering over a 7 course prix fix meal and basking in scintillating conversation (see Critical Component #5).

4 – Darts - Well after we have dessert-ed and digested comfortably, and before Cinderella’s midnight deadline, throwing darts at a non-smoking, great music, empty bar with my favorite kind of electronic dartboards (which charges a quarter, not 75 cents a game…or unlimited…that’s good too.)  I <3 playing darts, I’m competitive, I play to win! ;-)   {Bonus Points } Give me pink darts (tips and flights) as a V-Day gift!

5 – Wonderful Conversation – Above all else, this is most important to me.  Just enjoying each other verbally throughout the entire evening.  Recapping wonderful memories from the past year, discussing plans for new vacations and making more memories, and reminding each other that regardless of the tough stuff, the reasons it’s worked as well as it has is because of the non-negotiable characteristic each other possesses, reveling in that realization!

</Perfect Valentine’s Day>

Check out all entries and tweets by following the #VDayView hashtag.

Also, don’t forget to find out all the latest by following @WestinLaCantera on Twitter and becoming a fan on Facebook!

This post is part of The Westin La Cantera Resort’s Valentine’s Day with a View contest. Enter between Jan. 25 and Feb. 8 for your chance to win a one-night stay for two at The Westin La Cantera Resort on Saturday, February 13, which includes a romantic dinner for two at Francesca’s at Sunset and two rounds of golf to be played at either of our championship courses during your stay. Learn more at http://www.westinlacantera.com/Valentines-Twitter.html

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 !

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!

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.

Fall Deals of the Week

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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.

Halloween Tailgating Events

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Haven’t caught the fall spirit yet this year?  Have to much stuff to do already?  Kids can’t stop talking about the big day?  This post includes all kinds of Halloween tailgating events to get you and your family psyched for the big day!  Fun things to do and entertain through the upcoming weeks!

This Halloween series of posts will include:

  • Halloween WoW – Holiday special, this website of the week is a real treat!
  • Halloween Tailgating – Tailgating events to get you psyched for game day!  Get Halloween to “go green” and find friend and family fun!
  • Trick or Treating – Check out my ideas to breathe new life into an age old tradition!  Great ideas for individuals, families, neighbors, and friends.

Go Green!!  …and not from candy…

Go green, win big!! ChicoBag and Green Halloween’s® 2nd ANNUAL TRICK-OR-TREAT BAG DESIGN CONTEST – “Children ages 1-13 are encouraged to enter the contest by submitting an original drawing best depicting the spirit of a Green Halloween.”

Who: Ghosts and Goblins ages 1-13

What: An original design depicting the “spirit” of a Green Halloween

When: Images due October 24, 2009 by 5:00 PM Pacific Time. (Winner will be notified no later than 11/5/09.)

Ghouly Girls and Bootiful Boys Boys can create the 2010 Green Halloween ChicoBag™ and win a bag of green goodies!

Monster Mashup – Oriental Trading Company came up with a great website to easily make mashup video with up to 5 of your closet friends with an awesome Halloween backdrop!  I made one with my daughter of her and her friends and she almost died laughing! Easily share with your friends through email, Facebook, Twitter, etc.

Check out the one I did of San Antonio Social Media super stars @ColleenPence, @Nanpalmero, @1337wine, @ashleypalmero, and @anaflores!

Bonus:  Upload your pictures or use existing pictures from Facebook!  Using FacebookConnect, you can select from your existing photo albums or use friends!  It was super simple to do!  Don’t forget you can also resize the area around the face to select – for optimal mashup potential!

Halloween Tailgating

There are a lot of fun events going on before Halloween even gets here!  Don’t wait until the end of the month; check your newspaper for local events!

1 – Bass Pro Shop! You heard me right!  I have been more and more impressed with the activities offered here!  Oct. 24/25 and Oct. 30/31, get there early and stay for different crafts and activities offered throughout the day and store!  Make a leather craft, rope a bronco, partake in kid costume parades, paint a craft pumpkin, roast marshmallows, and lots of other GREAT events!

2 – Lakeshore Learning Store! Enjoy making a different Halloween themed craft each Saturday during the month of October.  Crafts include silly scarecrows, countdown calendars, and other things to drive you batty while your child has a lot of fun!  All locations from 11am-3pm.

3 – Pumpkin Patches! This was one of my favorite October traditions!  Find a local pumpkin patch, maybe as cool as this one – South Texas Maize!  Right outside of San Antonio, TX…it even has a corn maze (one kid friendly and one more difficult!)  Help you kids select their own pumpkins, snack on fall snacks, take a hayride, and automatically have the picture backdrop for Halloween pictures.

I’ll also continue to update this post as I find more family friendly events as well!  Check back for that and my next post on alternatives to trick or treating or ways to spice it up!

Website of the Week | Trick or Treat for UNICEF

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Create an unforgettable Halloween for the entire family!  I have scoured the internet to consolidate the best fun activities that not only encourage a good, safe time but help the community, environment, and result in much more than just cavities.

My Halloween Series includes:

  • Halloween WoW – Holiday special, this website of the week is a real treat!
  • Halloween Countdown – What to do while you’re waiting!  Get Halloween to “go green” and find friend and family fun!
  • Trick or Treating – Check out my ideas to breathe new life into an age old tradition!  Great ideas for individuals, families, neighbors, and friends!

I’ve always enjoyed Halloween – it’s a fun holiday regardless of your age.  This year though, instead of waiting for the true meaning of Christmas to roll around, use Halloween as an opportunity to show your kids that they shouldn’t just look forward to the sweet stuff at the end of the month but they can ALSO offer a lot of treats too!

Website of the Week (WoW): UNICEF (the United Nations Children’s Fund)

A global organization that saves kids’ lives in over 150 countries by providing clean water, nutrition, medicines, education and aid in emergencies.  They’re also offering awesome ways to raise awareness and contributions!

UNICEF’s Media Savvy

  • Follow @unicefusa’s tweets on Twitter.  (Not on Twitter yet?  Twitter 101 from basics to advanced users here!)
  • Become a Fan on Facebook!
  • Join their cause – By clicking on the “Join Cause” button, you can track how much money you’re raising, see how others are doing, and join the discussions online!

Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF

Encourage your child to help other kids, all over the world, survive and get the basic essentials they need to live better, fuller lives!  Bring around your orange box to collect money in while trick or treating.  Check out their PDF of FAQ here.

  • Practice What you Preach – Does your child get a little gun shy?  Don’t wait until opening night to find out what lines your kid’s going to deliver?  UNICEF even has an online game to help kids practice what they’re going to say.

***Parents check out these resources to help understand and explain the importance of giving back, now and throughout the year!

Available anytime between now and Halloween.  Don’t feel like waiting? Download the materials to make your own collection canister here.

***P&G will double HGTV TV viewers’s tax-deductible donations made online between October 18th and October 31st!

Halloween Party Toolkit

Includes EVERYTHING you need to throw a fun, successful, and informative fundraising party!

  • Invitations
  • “Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF” Door Sign
  • Stickers, Window Cling, and Door Hanger
  • Text-or-Treat Mobile Giving Cards – hand out during the party for your guests to contribute at their convience.
  • UNICEF DVD – Download the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF DVD, to show your guests how their contributions will be used.

Whether you’re throwing a party for a lot of people or just your family, take advantage of this awesome offer!

Create Your Own Website

Your child, their school, your organization, or just you can create your very own online fundraising Mecca!  In a few easy steps, save the lives a children across the world by:

  • Creating a monetary goal
  • Personalizing your website – easy to update and use!  (Can even create personalized URLs.)
  • Send out to friends and families…encourage everyone to participate!

UNICEF Download Center

Don’t have enough stuff yet?!  With enough activities to entertain you and your children for hours, take advantage of all the FREE resources available!  Download the fundraising kit, ultimate resource kit, or check out the entire sub-site dedicated for teachers!

TeachUNICEF

TeachUNICEF is a resource for U.S. educators.  TeachUNICEF education materials have been designed to help educators bring a global understanding of the needs of children and families around the world into the classroom.

Delivering the Goods

UNICEF makes it easy to turn in donations by phone, online, mail, or even your local Coinstar center!  Turn in all the coins you collect instantly and send off your receipt.

And you don’t have to have kids for a lot of my suggestions – grab a group of your friends, your co-workers, and celebrate the end of harvest time with the season of sharing!