Joy School

Hey Moms!

I am moving into the Twin Peaks/Silverbell area and looking to start up or join a joy school group. I have done joy school with my daughter and she LOVES it. I am looking for another great group for next year and wanted to see how many people would be interested. If you are not familiar with joy school you can get more information at http://www.valuesparenting.com . It is basically a co-op preschool teaching values along with academics. I love it and the kids have so much fun! Plus, it saves a few bucks and you get to be involved in your child's education. If you are interested please send me an e-mail indicating your interest level (sure I sign up for everything, curious/maybe, count me in, etc). I will see how much interest there is and we will plan a meeting for mid summer to finalize plans for the year with those interested. If you have more questions feel free to e-mail me too.
cgrhoton@gmail.com

Internet Safety

Maybe I am behind the times, but we have not
had a filter on our computer because I thought
since they could only get on when I put in the
password, and the computer is in the family
room, my kids were safe. Not so! Several times,
inappropriate images have popped up when they
typed something that had no relation, and I thought
it was a fluke thing. But after my child was trying
to get on her Webkinz, and mistyped it- getting the
last letter off and it sent her straight to a porn site,
I realized, I have to protect my kids! They are being
targeted-it's not a fluke thing!
So I found this K9 Web Proctection site to download
for free, and it is working like a charm. Just thought
I would pass along the info.
http://www1.k9webprotection.com/

Little Busy Bodies Preschool 2011-2012

I have been telling anyone who has inquired that I am not doing preschool next year, but I'm just not happy with that decision. So I've changed my mind! I'm now planning on running a M/W 3-4 class.

For anyone in search of a preschool, my name is Amber Kunz and I run Little Busy Bodies Preschool from my home in Continental Ranch (7509 W. Mission View Pl...if you want to Google it). I received my degree from BYU in Elementary and Early Childhood Education, so this is something that I have been trained to do. I taught second grade for two years and have taught several summers in various preschools. My program will be both academic and structured, but most importantly FUN, fostering those social skills that your child needs to be successful. Although I do not have a "professional" establishment, I do run my preschool as such. In fact, the reason that I began this endeavor was due to the fact that I wasn't finding the type of professional preschool that I wanted for my son within the community. My goal is to provide a developmentally appropriate learning experience for your children through active, hands-on learning. I want the children to enjoy themselves while they are at school and learn through play. I also believe that the heart of every classroom should be literacy. I plan on using quality children's books as the vehicle through which we learn the alphabet, writing, numbers, science, cooking, and more.

For the 2011-2012 school year, I will be offering one class: M/W, 9am-12pm, for 3-4 year olds. Your child needs to turn 3 by August 1, 2011. I will keep class size at 6 children (including my daughter). Monthly tuition will be $100. Along with a completed registration packet, a non-refundable registration fee of $50 is required to hold your child's spot as well as assist me in purchasing classroom materials (crayons, markers, journals, etc.) .

If you are interested, please email me and I will send you a sneak peek slide show which will give you a better idea of my set up and range of activities.

Thanks!!

Amber Kunz

amber_kunz24@yahoo.com

St. Patrick's Day Printables and Crafts

If you would like a free printable St. Patrick's Day worksheet, head over here!
http://www.supermommoments.com/2011/02/green/

She also has a tutorial for a fun St. Patrick's day craft. A modern themed Leperchaun mobile. Super cute!
http://www.supermommoments.com/2011/03/st-patrick-rainbow-decoration/

‘Bath and Body Works’ Foaming Soap

Do you love Bath and Body Works foaming soap dispensers? We love them here, but I have some fragrances that I love more that they don't carry in soap. For example, I love the new Secret Wonderland. 

All you have to do is buy the shower gel. Fill to [about] the line seen below. and fill the rest with water. I shake it up really well mixing the gel with the water. Then I have a refilled bottle for WAY cheaper. Plus, my favorite fragrance!

If it's not foaming right try a little more gel or a little more water. -but I have never had a problem :)

Baby sitters?

Hi moms! I am new to town and am getting to the point with my daughter, who is almost one, where I need a baby sitter!!! I am a single mom, so dad isn't on hand and the grandparents don't do evenings well....

Does anyone have someone they could share?
How much do you pay your baby sitter?

Thank you,
Sara

Free Fridge

Sorry to post again but I didn't get contact information from some people that commented or messaged me. I had a couple people who expressed interest then never get back, or some change their minds. So she is back on the market.  seadving@aol.com

Mutton Bustin' Western Heritage Arena (frontage road South of the Marana Exit)

If you are interested in Mutton Bustin' (or sheep riding)

Here's the info I gathered:
EVERY FRIDAY (during the season, check the website for dates)
up 70 lbs (no minimum weight, it's up to your discretion)
Cost is $5 to enter
Registration is at 6:30pm, Rodeo starts at 7pm
*includes helmet and protective vest to borrow*

Admission to the arena is $5 for adults -kids are free.


(My sons Kayden and Bentley are doing it this Friday if anyone wants to join us! It's fun, and hilarious... we've done it before. My son Kayden wants to do it again!)

http://www.maranaheritagearena.com/index.html

2.99 Dozen Doughnuts

Safeway marks their Doughnuts to 2.99 EVERYDAY at 6pm.
This would be an inexpensive treat for a birthday or for a group of people you are feeding!

Free Fridge

Free Fridge

We bought a new fridge and this one is just sitting in the garage. It has plenty of years on it, but I think that it would look nice with a fresh coat of teal-sih paint and chrome handles. None the less it would be a good garage fridge. Let me know if you are interested!

New Preschool

I am starting a preschool at my house this fall. I am located in Gladden Farms. If you would like more information or have questions, please contact me at: lmichels at gmail dot com.

Neat site for Kids

I found that Education.com is a good place to go help me work on ABC's with my son. I use the 'worksheets' tab and find what I am looking for by age & activity type. They have several different ideas from Preschool to High School.

Crayons Craft

I am doing a craft  for Valentines day with my kids and am looking for old or broken crayons. Call me or drop them by my mail box if you have any to spare. Thanks!
Renee 682-3994

 This is such a cute idea..you might be tempted to make them yourself. Crayon Valentines

Flat Rate Book Sale, three days left

I usually post this right when they start it, but apparently I missed the first email. So you only have until Feb 10th. I wouldsuggest not working on it on the evening of the 10th as I have seen the website get REALLY REALLY slow with so many people trying to make their books at the last minute...of course I wasn't one of them ;)

In case you have been waiting for another FLAT RATE book sale

100 pages for about $20 (maybe less this time?)

WINKFLASH.com has it again!

They don't have the best layouts or the best website, but they always have this AWESOME sale.

I have ordered two or three of these books and I love them, you can't get 100 page book anywhere else for this price.

http://www.winkflash.com

Upcoming Meetings about the proposed 20 extra school days

Below you will find Dr. Wilson’s scheduled attendance at upcoming PTO meetings to discuss the proposed extra 20 days to be added to the school year.  Please feel free to contact either the superintendent's office or the particular school to confirm Dr. Wilson’s attendance, correct time, etc.

Date	Time	School
2/1/11	1:00 PM	Marana Middle School
2/1/11	6:00 PM	Desert Winds Elementary/Picture Rocks  Intermediate @ Picture Rocks
2/2/11	6:00 PM	Estes Elementary School
2/8/11	7:00 PM	Rattlesnake Ridge Elementary School
2/9/11	6:00 PM	Thornydale Elementary School
2/15/11	6:00 PM	DeGrazia Elementary School
3/2/11	6:30 PM	Twin Peaks Elementary School
3/3/11	11:30 AM	Marana High School

Here is a review written by Jenny Cawley:

"I have been asked to compile this note in reference to MUSD's proposal to extend their school calendar to 200 days.  I intend to share my experience from the Coyote Trail PTO meeting I attended on Wednesday, January 12th. I am encouraging every parent to attend your school's PTO meeting.  Dr. Doug Wilson, MUSD's superintendent, is making the rounds to each district schools January or February PTO meeting.   They are coming up quickly.  I decided to attend CT's meeting despite not being a CT parent because I had received some e-mail communication in regards to the proposal.  I spoke to one of my childrens' teachers at school about the proposal and was concerned about some of the things she said about it. I wanted to get information firsthand as quickly as I could so I could be informed and prepared. I am planning on attending the meetings at each of three MUSD schools my children attend, if possible, to become more educated. The following is what I learned from Dr. Wilson and from observation of other parents and staff that were in attendance.

1. MUSD is starting a dialogue in regards to extending their calendar to 200 days.  There will be no added vacation or holidays. There will no additional staff inservice days.  They will keep 1/2 day Fridays because of teacher contracts. The current MUSD calendar is at 180 days. This will add 20 school days. Vail School District has been used as a comparison but they do not have a 200 day calendar.  They have a year round 180 day calendar. See it here http://www.vail.k12.az.us/our-schools/student-calendar/2009-2010. Dr. Wilson used Vail as an example but it was misleading since the number of calendar days are NOT the same.  Dr. Wilson also passed out a sample calendar.  He did say that he created it and it did not come from the committee that is suggesting this proposal.  This 2012-2013 calendar showed the last day of school as May 31st and the first day on July 16th.

2. Dr. Wilson stated that there is an Arizona state law that has been on record for 8 or nine years.  This law gives an additional 5% funding increase to districts that have a 200 day calendar.  There is only one school district in Arizona that has taken advantage of the statute.  It is the Balsz School District in Phoenix.  It is in a low income area near Thomas Road and the Red Mountain Freeway. I googled it and did some reading.  I asked Dr. Wilson why more districts were not taking advantage of this statute.  He replied that it was because people don't like change and eventually all schools will go to a 200 day calendar. This is his opinion.  He said there are approximately 5 schools west of the Mississippi that have a 200 day schedule. Most are 180-185 days. There are no current statistics or studies that say a 200 day calendar shows any increase in academic performance.

3.  I asked Dr. Wilson about the fact that MUSD is currently using a 180 day curriculum and would they being getting any new curriculum or extensions to the current one.  The answer was no.  Teachers are going to be able to enrich the curriculum they currently are using.  There were several teachers in attendance.  Mrs. McGarity from Rattlesnake Ridge was there.  She said that she is on the fence.  She does not feel that her middle schooler and high schooler would benefit from more school days but she sees how other students could.  I thought she was very fair.  Two other teachers spoke for the proposal.  I don't remember specifically what they said.

4.  Dr. Wilson stated that the 5% increase would allow for teacher pay raises in 2012-2013.  I intend to ask at another meeting if this will be a one time increase or if it will be annual.  This was not clear.

5.  The AZ legislature passed three new education laws in the last session.  The first is Move On When Reading which mandates that all 3rd graders must be reading at a 3rd grade reading level to be promoted to 4th grade.  If they don't they will be retained.  The 2nd is Move On When Ready. You can read about it here http://www.expectmorearizona.org/blog/2010/02/15/move-on-house-bill-provides-motivated-high-school-students-with-way-to-advance-when-ready/.  Move On When Ready is optional.
The third is a teacher tenure bill that makes teachers more accountable for their students standardized test scores.
Dr. Wilson stated that all of these new directives are a cause for expanding the calendar.

6. Dr.Wilson stated that currently an extended day calendar is not tied to the expiring budget override election in November.  That 10% override will continue some basic services like activity buses.  I am not sure what else is tied into it.  I expect we will hear more on those provisions soon.  However, the intent may be to attach it to the override if or when the School Board approves it.

7.  6-7 parents raised concerns about the extended calendar infringing on the time they spend with their children.They are in essence adding a month of school with weekend homework and projects. Dr. Wilson said that "culture" will have to change. One parent brought up the issue of student athletes that are in club sports.  These athletes participate in tournaments that extend through July or August.  Dr. Wilson said the people will have to make hard choices.  He cited Vail again but the parent rebutted saying that she knows for a fact the Vail students miss school to attend their tournaments. Parents also asked why the district wasn't considering an extended school day, or extended fall and spring breaks.  The answer was they will not get the additional funding.  It has to be 200 days.

This is most of what I took notes on and remember. I'm sure I missed things as well.  That is why I am encouraging everyone to attend any meeting you can."

Marana Elected Governing School Board Members

Mr.John Lewandowski J.W.Lewandowski@maranausd.org

Mr.Tom Carlson T.A.Carlson@maranausd.org

Ms.Suzanne Hopkins S.V.Hopkins@maranausd.org

Ms.Manibel Lopez M.Z.Lopez@maranausd.org

Mr. Dan Post D.K.Post@maranausd.org

Superintendent

Dr. Doug Wilson MUSD6@maranausd.org

Assistant Superintendent,
Carolyn Dumler C.M.Dumler@maranausd.org

Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Jan Truitt J.L.Truitt@maranausd.org

Director of Operations
Dan Contorno D.J.Contorno@maranausd.org

Marana Unified School District
Suite 106
11279 W. Grier Rd.
Marana, AZ  85653


Phone: (520) 682-4774
FAX: (520) 682-2421


Hours of Operation
7:30 am to 4:00 pm

Hurry: $10 for $20 Gift Card to Amazon.com

presented by Living Social

$10 for $20 Gift Card to Amazon.com


This will go quickly!!!  Listed under Phoenix, Tucson, or Washington D.C..  I <3 Living Social today!

FREE Couponing Class TONIGHT

Many women locally have been begging me to teach a couponing class.  Tonight (TUESDAY 01/18) I am teaching a FREE class for a women's group at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints building that is located at:

13450 North Lon Adams Road, Marana, AZ

They said that anyone from the community is welcome to attend.  The class will be held in the gym at 6:30 p.m..  You are welcome to bring a friend. 

For those of you who live far away,  here is the information on how I organize my coupons.

Pinching Your Pennies is a free website that lists weekly deals with coupons. Click on the current list. I love that they give the deals STAR ratings. You know that 4 or 5 stars is a great deal.

If you live outside Arizona, click here to see the deals listed by other States!

Click here for information on organizing and couponing in Arizona.

Want to Increase Your Couponing Savings even more?

If you are wanting to seriously coupon, there are websites that charge to see a more intense list of coupons matched with what is on sale. Couponsense is the most used here in Arizona. They have a more comprehensive list for the serious couponer. They teach you how to combine online loadable coupons with manufacturer coupons to get even better deals. Right now they have a promotion for those who want to try it. $4 for the first month and $15 each month after. You can cancel at any time.  

I think I save at least $15 extra each week using Couponsense than I did using Pinching Your Pennies.

I also saved so much time using Couponsense.  Before I was copying and pasting each individual deal I wanted to use from Pinching Your Pennies to make my list.  Then, I'd go by each deal and cut out the individual coupons.  Couponsense cut at least 2-3 hours off my couponing last week.  You click on the deals you want to use, it generates you a shopping list per store and a coupon cutting list that tells you that from this specific Sunday insert, you need these coupons for your deals.  I'm LOVING this.

If you choose to try Couponsense, use the promo code:  enjoy the savings

Select Referred by friend and enter Stephanie Ashcraft.  It should show Andrea VanHorn as your instructor.  She lives here in Arizona and is one of the top 10 couponers in their company.

Newspaper Subscriptions

AZ Daily Star- $4.30 per month for Sunday paper. www.azstarnet.com

AZ Republic- Multiple Sunday Papers available. More expensive. More coupons. https://subscribe.azcentral.com/circpromos/promopages/pinchingyourpennies.php

AZ Republic- $1 per week for 1 Sunday paper https://subscribe.azcentral.com/circpromos/promopages/2010_deal_blogger.php

Printable Coupon Sources

There are so many ways to get coupons. 

Lately I realized that I am using more printable coupons than coupons from the Sunday paper. You can get printable coupons from so many sources for pretty much everything you need for your family. FYI-Most of these websites reset their coupons and add coupons at the beginning of each month. Some even reset coupons on the 15th so you can print them again.

• Arm & Hammer
• Betty Crocker
• Blue Bunny
• Box Tops For Education
• Cool Savings
• Coupon Bug
• Coupon Loop
• Coupon Surfer
• Coupons.com
• CVS Savings Central
• Eat Better America
• Home Made Simple
• Libby's
• Nestle
• Pillsbury
• Proctor & Gamble eSaver
• Red Plum
• SmartSource
• Target Coupon here and here

family/adult doctor

Ok sorry, another request for a doctor..a family or adult doctor for my husband. Does anyone know of a good one? Or has any one been to the new one by doctor Bean's office of Ina..right as you pull into his complex? Thanks!

podiatrist

Any body know of a good podiatrist around this area?

MUSD wanting to add days to school calendar

Hi everyone. I just wanted to make sure that everyone knew that MUSD is contemplating adding 20 more days to the school calendar. Who wants this??? For me, this is not what I want as a mother. I want my children home with me. The school system has encroached on our time with our children cutting summer breaks from 3 months now to basically 2. I don't want to only have a month with them. I want to have time with my children to love them, teach them, instill within them the morals I believe to be important--those of honesty, integrity, wholesome entertainment with family, and the plain simple fact that the family is a very important unit. The school gets them 10 months out of the year. I want them the other 2!!!!

If this is passed, it will also be difficult for my teenagers --and yours too---to secure summer employment where they can learn valuable life lessons, but also importantly, to save for college and missions. I understand that this will come as part of the bond vote, but I am unsure as to when that is exactly. My friend on the PTO at Marana High School, Tina Laulusa, and I will choose to fight this and I will stand up for my time with my family. Please study this, be aware of this, and take action with this.

If you have any questions, please email me or Tina and we will try to help you find answers. Please attend the meetings that will be held at the local schools. Coyote Trail Elementary will be having a meeting on this Wednesday night at 6 pm.

Baby Changing Table for sale

White baby changing table with changing pad for only $20. Needs touched up with paint, but other than that it is in great condition.

Call Stephanie at 407-6364 if you are interested.

Location:  Gladden Farms/ Marana, AZ 

$30 for One Month of Unlimited Zumba Dance Fitness Classes at Pointe of Grace ($60 Value)

• 

Marana/Tucson Deal:

$30 for One Month of Unlimited Zumba Dance Fitness Classes at Pointe of Grace ($60 Value)

Deal ends in 2 days!  The studio is located off the Twin Peaks Exit on Silverbell.  For those of you who hear the moms and teachers at Estes talking about Zumba.  This is where everyone goes.

4 of the Zumba night classes are taught by Kim Aguirre, 3rd grade teacher, at Estes.  She's pretty amazing.  I bought the deal and hope to see some of you there!

Click to see the deal for your city!

T-ball and Baseball Registration!

If you are interested... Registration for Baseball is Saturday January 8th.  See the website for more details

http://www.maranalittleleague.org/

I must admit we are a soccer family, but I was not extremely impressed with our soccer experience. At least at our son's age (5yrs). 

I really recommend this little league. We had a great experience and my son LOVED it last year!!

Just Dance 2

We got this game for Christmas and played it once. Then we sold our Wii. You can buy it new on Amazon for $35. We are selling it for $30. If you are interested please email me at lmichels at gmail dot com.

Disney Lane!

Don't forget to take your kids through Disney Lane! It's a decorated neighborhood with themed houses. My kids LOVE it. It is on Old Father rd, in between Ina and Cortaro. It's a must! :)

Screaming Deal on Laminator

If you have been debating the purchase of a laminator, this deal is for you.  Right now you can purchase the Scotch Thermal Laminator 2 Roller System (TL901) for just just $16.99 and qualifies for free shipping. If you craft or have just been looking for a laminator, this one is normally $80.  You are saving 79% on this purchase.

The Scotch™ Thermal Laminator TL901 packs professional quality laminating performance into a package compact enough to use in your home, office, or in the classroom. Convenient and easy to use, this laminator allows you to protect frequently handled documents, preserve artwork, create teaching aids, and more--uses are limited only by your imagination!

Embroidery

Does anyone know of a good (and affordable) place to have a stocking embroidered?

$8 for a Tucson Attractions Passport from Southern Arizona Attractions Alliance ($16.25 value)

• 

$8 for a Tucson Attractions Passport from Southern Arizona Attractions Alliance ($16.25 value)

This Groupon deal runs through Thursday under Tucson. It gives you B1G1 Free admission into all of Tucson's biggest attractions.  You'll save $20 just by visiting Biosphere 2 once.

letters to Santa

Does anyone know of a good way to write the North Pole? 

The spirit of giving

I love this, and have been wanting to post this. I love that they take used toys! I know I have a few (well more than a few) that are in fantastic shape, and could donate.

Here's the info:

It's called Santa's Workshop which has been in existence for 24 years.  As we have done in the past, we're collecting new and USED toys and clothes as well as food, diapers, blankets, hygiene items and household items.  This year we have teamed up with Casa Maria, The Marana Food Bank and The Foothills Mall.  The Foothills Mall has been kind enough to donate an empty store during our collection period to use as a drop-off location and warehouse to clean, repair, and send-off the donations.  

Santa's Workshop opens November 26th (black friday) and will be open during mall business hours until Dec. 20th.  It is located at the Foothills Mall between thefood court and Barnes and Noble.

The needs this year are far greater than in past year's, so we are hoping the donations will be greater as well to meet those needs.  What is unique about Santa's Workshop is that we accept used toys and clothes-- everyone can give something they have grown out of, quit playing with, got tired of etc...  These toys and clothes are cleaned and repaired and given to organizations around town like Casa Maria, a Soup Kitchen in South Tucson, which feeds 600 individuals and 250 families everyday!  
Santa's Workshop at the Foothills Mall will also be holding activities and performances during the day and evenings for a minimal ticket price with all proceeds benefiting Santa's Workshop, Casa Maria Soup Kitchen and The Marana Food Bank.

Please come and support Santa's Workshop by:
--Donating: New or used toys or clothes; Blankets; Food; Diapers; Household items; Hygiene items
--Come and see a show or take part in a daily activity or art and crafts
--Please pass this information along to everyone you know
--Donations also accepted at all Tucson Pizza Hut and Macayo's Mexican Kitchen locations.

I attached the schedule of events and activities.  

Here are daily activities for children whcih run through Dec. 19th.
Each event costs $2 (parents are free) and lasts 30-45 minutes.
Mondays: Magic with Zippy the Elf  11:30
Wed:  Story Time with Mama Elf, and puppets  10:00
          Face Painting with Loly the Elf 5:30
Thur:Greetings & Games with Twinkles the Elf (Make a holiday card & play games)  11:00
Fri:  Sing alongs with Melody the Elf 2:00
Sat:  Arts and Craft projects in the workshop 12:00 - 2:00 and 4:00 - 6:00
Sun: Arts and Craft projects in the workshop 10:00 - 12:00 and 2:00 - 3:00

Additionally, there is a theatrical performance of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, A Very Elvis Christmas, Bob and Trish Jugglers, A film festival with local filmmakers, An illusionist perfomance, and more.  All proceeds go towards Santa's Workshop, Casa Maria and The Marana Food Bank.

Please check out our website for more information
www.santasworkshopsite.com
and 
www.arizonarose.cc
or on twitter
http://twitter.com/SantasWrkshop

Swimming offer

I got this in my inbox and thought I'd share. It's for DeMont Family Swim School off Ina and Shannon. Price is 65 dollars a month for once a week swimming lessons. With this deal you get 6 months for the price of 5. I've found there's usually 1 to 2 kids per class.

I know it's pricey for swimming lessons! But, at least for us, I feel that it has been worth it. These swim teachers are good! Our son started two months ago--afraid of putting his face in the water and having virtually no swimming skills and he can now glide completely underwater from his teacher to the side of the swimming pool (about 3 feet away) and do the back float almost by himself (still working on that one). I'm kind of in shock that he doesn't mind submerging himself in water all the way already! He used to be pretty nervous about even having his face in the water for a second!

If you're interested in these types of swimming lessons, I think this is a good a good deal.

Free Baby sling (must pay shipping)

 Go to www.sevenslings.com and put in the promo code "Thanksgiving" to get a sling for FREE. All you pay is $11.95 in shipping!

Fun holiday idea...What's something fun you have done?

The other day I took the two younger boys to Starbucks for hot chocolate. If you get the "kids hot chocolate" it's $1.00 or $1.25. They make it at "kid's temperature" and we usually have them add something fun, like pumpkin spice or caramel. After our hot chocolate's we headed home to bake some holiday cookies. Nothing amazing, but they felt special... and thought having their own hot chocolate was pretty fun.

What is something fun (simple or not) that you are doing to celebrate the holidays?

the new look...

I have been wanting to fresh'n up our look and I hope it looks ok. Check it out.

I will also be conducting polls on the sidebar... please vote!

PS any ideas would be much appreciated!!

Teaching our children about strangers

In response to Elizabeth's question I found this and  maybe if you have ideas you can share them here as well! (click on the link below for the whole family lesson)

http://preparednotscared.blogspot.com/2010/08/safety-preparedness-family-home-evening.html

Stranger Danger....ect

This is a random post...sorry! But I was wondering if anyone has good tips or sites to teach our little boys about Strangers and what's appropriate behavior and things like that. Thanks for your help.

2 free lego land tickets!

two legoland tickets available. must be used before the end of this year. comment if you want them.

Toy Story 3 blue ray/dvd combo pack deal!!

If you are buying Toy Story 3 (combo pack)and want to get an $8 off coupon... Here is the link. It must be used by tomorrow. 11/8/2010. I think I paid $16 after the coupon.

http://www.disneymovierewards.go.com/promotions/special-offers/ts3lptw-coupon?cmp=dmov_dmr_emc_lptw_ts3lptw

Also, if you are interested you can use two additional coupons for mail in rebates totaling $10. I am terrible at mail-in's and I don't usually buy batteries and soup this way... but maybe you do and could benefit on more savings...

http://www.livingrichwithcoupons.com/2010/11/toy-story-3-dvd-rebates-5-rayovac-5-campbells-shoprite-deal.html

(these coupons can all be used together)

(thanks Shanna for the tip!!)

Free Dining Room Table

Pine table, seats six. Free for the taking.

Connie
390-9839

looking to buy baby swing and bouncer

Does anyone have a baby-swing and/or bouncer in good condition that they would like to sell? I hate to buy new ones since this is probably our last child. Have been looking at Craigs list but hesitate to buy baby stuff from people I dont know. You can email me at nicole@desertbrilliance.com . Thanks! Oh we are having a boy - so no girly stuff :)

Eversave: $20 for $50 Worth of Christmas or announcement photo cards

I just discovered yet another Deal site with deals for major cities across the country.  Wow!  It's almost overwhelming all the deals available.  Eversave has a great nationwide deal going Today, Friday, and Saturday.  The deal can be found under Phoenix or Houston.

Today's Save: $20 for $50 worth of gorgeous photo cards for holidays, baby announcements, invitations, and more

Value: $50

Pay: $20

Save: 60%

You have until September 30, 2011 to use this voucher.

If you are new to Eversave, you get $5 off your first order which got me this deal for only $15.  I was looking for a deal for Christmas cards.  Maybe other Marana Moms are looking as well.

Park Playtime Date

Let's do a test run for a park playtime.... Friday at 9:30am at the Gladden Farms park. All who can make it are welcome!

Preorder Toy Story 3 for Only $15.99

I'm sure I'm not the only Mom in search of a deal for this movie.  This is the best deal that I've found.  You can pre-order Toy Story 3 on DVD for just $15.99. They ship on Nov. 2nd. What's great about pre-ordering from Amazon is their Pre-order price guarantee. Order now and if the Amazon.com price decreases between your order time and the end of the day of the release date, you'll receive the lowest price.  Add another item that costs over $9.01 and it will ship for FREE! 

I just ordered this one for my kids for Christmas.  One more thing checked of the list.  :-)

Park Playtime

Is anyone interested in starting a play group or meeting time at the Gladden Farms park once a week in the morning or late afternoon/early evening?

Photo Calendar

Visit VistaPrints to get a photo calendar for the cost of shipping.

8x10 Canvas Print

Canvas People is offering an Amazing deal. You can get a FREE canvas print. All you have to do is pay the shipping ($14.95). You get a $55.00 dollar credit to get an 8x10 canvas or to use towards a larger print. This is the perfect addition for your home or gift for anyone. Newborn photo, family photo, wedding picture, gift for grandparents and the list goes on and on!


Click HERE to go to Canvas People and get yours.

Boston's Half Off Coupon

Living Social has a great deal today:

A $30 gift certificate for only $15!

Click here to learn more/purchase:

https://livingsocial.com/deals/10729?ref=conf-jp&rpi=1697492

How to get your clothes to REALLY smell good.

Disclaimer: **so this is one of those take it or leave it posts. This may not be the accurate or appropriate way to do this... but give it a try for yourself. -NOT for WHITES!!

My mom taught me this and ever since, I get compliments on the smell of my clothes or kids clothes. Odd? -but there you have it.

This is the secret:

Wait till the final rinse cycle to add your fabric softner. My recommendation is Downey. As the wash is filling with water for the rinse cycle add it. The load will rinse and spin.

(normally my washer releases the fabric softner in the wash cycle and then drains it. Which wastes it.)

When I begin my load of wash I set a timer for 25min. (this is about when my rinse cycle starts)

Try it... It's wonderful for sheets!

1 Time out For Women ticket available!!!

(From: Jeri Larimore)

I have a ticket available for the Time Out for Women in Phoenix on October 15-16. I bought 4 tickets for myself and my daughters due to a scheduling conflict one of my girls cannot attend. Regularly the price is 65-68 dollars. I bought mine early for $47. It is a great opportunity to go and learn, listen to key speakers and music. This year Sheri Dew, Virginia Pearce and Brad Wilcox will be speaking!

***She will sell it for $40 if you reply here***

PS I (Cherise) am going with a group of girls... If you want to join in, and come with us you can!!

email me @: cherisegraham@gmail.com if interested -and I will work it out with Jeri.

In need of pan

I'm looking for a cake pan with the depth of 3" (one that I could bake the whole cake in). I'd prefer a circular one, but would be happy with a square one too. It's for a birthday cake that I'm making this week and I think it would be easier to decorate if the cake was one solid piece rather than 2 layers. If anyone has one that they could lend me, I'd greatly appreciate it!

$25 for Annual Family Membership to AZ-Sonora Desert Museum Deal

This Weekend's Tucson Groupon Deal: $25 Family Membership to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum ($50 Value)



Wahoo! For my family, it would cost $38.75 to go just once. You have until Sunday night to purchase this deal. You have until April 1st, 2011 to activate your 1 year membership which starts on the day activated. You get 2 adult membership passes and all children 17 and under in the family get in FREE!

Tucson Symphony Orchestra- Just for Kids

The Tucson Symphony Orchestra is sponsoring free Just For Kids programs to open up their new season starting this Saturday October 2nd.  There will be two performances of "Cinderella and Other Classic Fairy Tales" presented.  Showtimes are 10 and 11:15 am at the Tucson Symphony Center, 2175 N. 6th Avenue.  The Just for Kids series are informal, fun concerts lasting 45-30 minutes.  Admission is free with a suggested $2 per person donation
The programs are presented on the first Saturday morning of each month from October through April, except December.  Parking is free.

Free Handwriting & Scrapbook Fonts

Free Handwritting & Scrapbook Fonts
Here is a link to the Kevin and Amanda website. She has lots of cute ideas, recipes and other tid-bits. I am not super crafty, but I really like the free handwriting & scrapbook fonts that she has.

Just thought I would share!

baby hiking carrier

Does anyone have a kids hiking carrier that they are no longer using that we can buy or have or do you know of a cheap place to get a good one? I'm wanting one for our 9 month old so we can go on little hikes. thanks

Old Ensigns/Friends

If anybody has any old Ensign or Friend magazines you don't need anymore I'll take them off your hands! I would like to go through and cut out/laminate/bind pictures that can be used for quiet books (thought it might be a fun Christmas idea for nieces and nephews) and possibly some little nursery picture books too. Thanks!

Great websites for kids!

Do your kids love to play on the computer? I have been on a search for educational and fun sites for my kids to play on. I found this site that has a whole compilation of them! Check out this button/link. (I added it to the sidebar if you want to refer back to it)

Hair Stylist

Can anyone recommend a good hairstylist?
Thanks!

Free Nursing Cover and Baby Sling

Hey Ladies:
I just got this promo today in my e-mail...Here it is:


Use promo code "cutekid" for 100% off a $32 nursing cover at www.uddercovers.com and immediately receive a promo code for 100% off a $39 pouch-style baby sling at www.sevenslings.com!

Go to uddercovers.com, click on "Shop Now" and select the nursing cover or gift set you would like. Type "cutekid" into the promo code box and it will bring your product total to $0 (gift sets $5) - just pay shipping and processing! Check out at uddercovers.com and your email address (used at uddercovers.com) will instantly be turned into a "one-time-use-only" promo code for 100% off any baby sling at sevenslings.com! These fitted slings are safe for infants to toddlers 35 lbs and under.

The SevenSlings.com promo code will allow you only one purchase so please take your time to get the right size and pattern for you! This promo code is also valid for $39 towards the purchase of any gift set at sevenslings.com ! Once you have used the promo code, it will delete from the SevenSlings promo code database. This offer will expire without notice so please hurry!

Sincerely,
Uddercovers.com

Free couch!

***Taken****

Linda Zupi has a couch and loveseat in very good condition, about 2 1/2 years old, covered in white canvas removable and washable covers. She is wanting to give them to anyone who could use them. They need to be picked up next Wednesday, Sept 15th. Her number is 520-360-4363.

Free Admission

Tomorrow (Sept 3), from 6-10 pm, admission is free to the Phoenix Children's Museum. Price is normally $9/person, so this is a great deal. If you can't make it tomorrow, look for it next month because they do the same thing the first Friday of every month.

Child Care

We have a Firefighter friend who is in need of child care for his daughter who is under 1 year. He is looking in the Red Rock/Gladden Farms area. Please contact me for more information if you are interested. Renee seadving@gmail.com