Fun Upcoming Family Events

October
October 4th 10 AM / $2 suggested donation
Just for Kids - The Little Fiddle & Beethoven's Mouse @

Tucson Symphony Center
2175 N. Sixth Ave.
Tucson, Arizona 85705
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October 11 3-4pm Bookman’s on Ina Rd
Patrick the Magician, Free
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October 15 7-9pm Bookman’s on Ina
Halloween Movie Night (Hocus Pocus and Nightmare before Christmas), Free
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October 18 3-4pm Bookman’s on Ina
Halloween Costume Parade, crafts and refreshments, Free
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Oct 22 3-4pm Bookman’s on Ina
Make your own canvas Halloween backpack, Free
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October 24 6pm-close
Tohono Chul Park ‘Park After Dark’
Next Free Admission Day
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Ongoing Activities

Every Saturday 9-11am
Rocks and Ropes
Kids Climb lets kids (under 12 only)climb without the adults getting in their way. Held every Saturday from 9-11AM. Cost is $12. Our staff will belay for the kids so all they have to do is have fun. Admission closes at 9:30am, program ends @ 11am. No drop-offs/no reservations or groups.
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Every Saturday 10-12am
Michaels 3749 West Ina Road
“The Knack” kids craft time, $5/child (ages 5-12), supplies included
See website for events calendar: http://www.michaels.com/art/online/events?storeid=9530
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Reading with a Storybook Character
An hour of storytelling and activities with a storybook character is featured on the first Saturday of each month.
Location »
UA BookStore at Student Union Memorial Center
1209 E. University Blvd.
Tucson
Contact Info »
621-2426

Date and Time »
first Saturday each month
10:30 a.m.
Cost »
free
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Other storytimes:

11am Saturdays at Barnes & Noble, Foothills Mall

Local libraries (see library.pima.gov), family, toddler and preschool
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Flandrau Science Center And Planetarium
1601 E. University Blvd. Tucson, Arizona Phone: 621-7827.
Numerous exhibits, science demonstrations and a major national mineral display are some of the attractions at Flandrau. The free observatory offers a view of the heavens through a 16-inch Cassegrain telescope. Observatory hours are 7 to 10 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Free. Science center and planetarium hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and 6 to 9 p.m., Thursday and Friday; noon to 9 p.m., Saturday; and noon to 5 p.m., Sunday. $5 general. Visit www.gotuasciencecenter.org for more information.
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MarsQuest Planetarium
This new planetarium show provides visitors a journey to Mars in hopes of unlocking the planet's most hidden secrets. Created by Loch Ness Productions in collaboration with the Space Science Institute of Boulder, Colo., with funding from the National Science Foundation. Actor Patrick Stewart, known for his role as captain Jean-Luc Picard in the Star Trek television series and movies, does the narration.
Location »
Flandrau: The UA Science Center
1601 E. University Blvd.
on the UA campus
621-7827
www.gotUAsciencecenter.org
Dates »
Evening shows at 6:30 Thursdays-Saturdays. Matinee shows at 2:30 Saturdays-Sundays. The program is approximately 50 minutes long.
Cost »
$5 adults, seniors/students and children 4 and over
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Just for Kids
Tucson Symphony Center
2175 North Sixth Avenue
Most 1st Saturdays, 10 and 11:15 am
Dates: Oct 4, Nov 1, Dec 6, Jan 3, Mar 7, Apr 4
Cost: Free, $2 per person suggested donation
Just for Kids is a series of informal, interactive chamber ensemble concerts using humor, story-telling, demonstrations, participation and discussion to introduce classical music and orchestral instruments to families including very young children.

Children's Drumming Circle
Each session includes a brief lesson on the music and origins of drumming. Traditional African rhythms, improvisational drumming and simple hand techniques covered. Designed to encourage creativity and instill music appreciation. Use their drums or bring your own.
Location »
17th Street Market
810 E. 17th St.
Tucson
Directions »
Contact Info »
624-8821 Ext. 145
Bonnie Brooks

Date and Time »
Friday August 29, 2008
4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Other Dates »
Every Friday
Cost »
free
Age Restrictions »
6-12

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• Tohono Chul Park- Park After Dark - Held each fall, this FREE Family open house highlights the desert after dark with art exhibits, hands-on activites and musical or theatrical entertainments. The Park opens its doors for FREE after 6:00 pm on select dates (see website http://www.tohonochulpark.org).
The Park grounds (only) will be open free of charge on New Year's Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. The "Park After Dark" and "Night-blooming Cereus" evening events are also free to everyone.

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Lowe’s ‘Build and Grow Clinics’ for Kids (recommended 1st-5th grades)
2nd and 4th Saturdays from 10-11am
Free or low cost, make fun crafts and projects
Marana location

Picky Palate

For those of you who haven't seen this site... it's awesome. Great ideas to spice things up a bit.
http://pickypalate.blogspot.com/

Money Saving Dinner Idea on KOLD13 tomorrow!

I'll be on KOLD's morning news Thursday, September 25th. I'll be showing how to make my sister-in-laws gnocchi potato dumplings. By using what's on sale at Basha's this week, you can make this main dish that makes 6-8 servings for under $5! It will be aired around 5:50 a.m. or around 6:20 a.m. depending on where they decide to place it in their broadcast. They will also have it online at www.KOLD.com! You can also find the grocery deals for the week and links for all the grocery ads at Savvy Savings Tucson!

10/3 Twin Peaks/Rattlesnake Ridge Family Carnival

A note from Robin Bringhurst:

The Twin Peaks/Rattlesnake Ridge Carnival will be on Friday, Oct. 3 from 5-9pm and will be held at Rattlesnake Ridge (down the road near the Quik Mart). This is a super fun family event! We went for the first time last year and were really impressed. Lots of inflatables and rides and fun booths. You can buy early at Twin Peaks and a wristband (for unlimited use of inflatables and the train) is $6 now or $8 if you buy the night of the carnival. There are also food/drink, booth/attraction tickets available for 50 cents each. You can pre-buy these tickets Sept. 30/Oct 1/Oct 2 before and after school at the school entrance (NOT through the office). If your kid can go on the inflatables by himself then child needs the wristband and not the adults, just FYI.

9/27 Borders Kids Party and Toys R Us Birthday Bash

Borders is a hosting a free Kid's Party for children 12 and under this Saturday, September 27, 2008 from 2-4 PM. This event will include story time, games, and a scavenger hunt. Plus, you can get a free cookie with any beverage purchase at the coffee shops inside Borders. More information is here.




Toys R Us is having a big birthday bash on Saturday, September 27, 2008 from noon until 3 PM. This event includes activities, crafts, and free gifts! More details here.

10/11 Toys "R" US Thomas & Friends Play Date

Bring your favorite fans of Thomas & Friends to Toys “R” Us on Saturday, October 11th between 11am and 1pm for a play date with stories, coloring, trading cards, and the ever-popular train table!

Click HERE for details.

Help Pass the PROTECT Our Children Act Bill 1738

I know some of you watch Oprah & might have seen this. I seldom watch her but it was my bad timing to see this show. I almost lost my dinner at the evil darkness that is invading our country & children. Please use this to beg our U.S Senators to demand a vote on the PROTECT Our Children Act, Senate Bill 1738. You can copy & paste the letter at the bottom, to e-mail to our Senators. It's that simple, but they will see that this is an issuse that has attention. Please.

Here is the information below. I have already included in Senator information for the state of AZ.
Kyl, Jon- (R - AZ)
Class I
730 HART SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON DC 20510
(202) 224-4521
Web Form: kyl.senate.gov/contact.cfm

McCain, John- (R - AZ)
Class III
241 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON DC 20510
(202) 224-2235
Web Form: mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.Con...

Help Pass Senate Bill 1738—The PROTECT Our Children Act

Hundreds of thousands of children are victims of sexual abuse each year. Due to the sheer lack of resources, law enforcement is unable to follow up on the majority of leads they have.The PROTECT Our Children Act will:
Authorize over $320 million over the next five years in desperately needed funding for law enforcement to investigate child exploitation.
Mandate that child rescue be a top priority for law enforcement receiving federal funding.
Allocate funds for high-tech computer software that can track down Internet predators. Act Now!Your U.S. senators will be voting on the bill soon, so it is crucial you contact them immediately.Go to www.senate.gov to find contact information for the senators in your state. Search for your senator by name or state by clicking on the arrow from either dropdown menu. Contact information is provided here. To send an e-mail, click on "Web Form" below his or her name, and e-mail your letter to make a difference! Call Your SenatorsIf you choose to contact your senators by phone, be sure to tell them, "Vote yes on Senate Bill 1738—The PROTECT Our Children Act."Write to Your Senators If you choose to write a letter, fax, telegram or e-mail, you may use the following sample letter—and modify it how you see fit.

Dear Senator:
I know that you believe, like I do, that we must do everything possible to protect children from sexual predators. That is why I am asking for your help.Last year alone, U.S. law enforcement identified over 300,000 criminals who were trafficking in movies and pictures of young children being raped and tortured. Experts say that one in every three of these criminals has local child victims. Child pornography trafficking over the Internet has given us a trail of evidence that leads straight to their doorsteps, but the vast majority of these children will never be rescued because investigators are overwhelmed, outnumbered and underfunded.As your constituent, I urge you to do everything in your power to pass the PROTECT Our Children Act (S. 1738, Biden-Hatch). This bipartisan legislation passed the House 415-2, but it is now the victim of petty partisan politics.Now that we know where these children are and how to protect them, there is no excuse for the Senate to fail to take action this session.(Your name here)

Aprons Cont'd

If you are interested in sewing this apron with us, please purchase this pattern at:

http://sewliberated.com/patterns.html

or any other site if you wish. It is the emmaline apron.

How about we get together in October to sew it? What works for you? Should we do a Friday evening or something and make it a girls night? What do you think? I also need to know if you are seriously interested. Email me or post if you are... and purchase your pattern and Fabric.
I think I might purchase my fabric online (they have some cool vintage fabrics that you can't get at Hancocks). Or maybe I will wait until I can get to Phoenix.
No need to worry if you aren't an expert sewer. We'll figure it out together!

Girls Night Out for October

Hi everybody!! It’s time to start thinking about Girls Night Out for October already. Robyn Nogales will be offering 3 different crafts that you can choose from. Girls Night Out for October is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7 at 6:30 p.m. We will be having Girls Night Out at the Continental Ranch Community Center.

The crafts that Robyn will be doing are:
Letter Wall Hanging: $10.00 each if painting that night (Robyn will have 6-7 different paint colors to choose from). They are $8.00 each if painting at home with own paints.

Santa: $7.00 each (this one takes a little bit longer to paint, but not too difficult)

Snowmen Melt Hearts: $5.00 each (Does not include arm twigs). Anyone who orders this needs to find and bring 2 small twigs for the arms. Robyn found hers in her neighbor's yard.

Robyn needs to have all orders placed and payments made no later than Wednesday, October 1. If you are going to place an order, please email me and let me know. I will be giving Robyn a final number to make sure she knows how many of each thing to cut out. Please send or drop off all payments to me (Vicki Susa, 7698 W. Desert Paintbrush Ct., Tucson, AZ, 85743) and I will get them to Robyn. If you are going to give your payment to Robyn directly, please let me know.

Thanks to Robyn for all the fun ideas and we look forward to a fun Girls Night Out!!

Vicki

P.S. I will be sending out a couple more reminders closer to time. One to remind you to sign up and one to give you more details about location, rides or anything else you need to know about that night. Take care of yourself until then!!

Cute Aprons!

I found this apron on someone's blog and they gave me the link to order the pattern. I am far from an expert sewer and though I might give it a shot. If anyone is interested in making a super cute apron... let me know... We will figure it out together! What do you think?
I think this makes me want to cook! ;)

Sneaky Zucchini

http://sneakyzucchini.blogspot.com/
I have started a new blog for, well sneaking veggies into food. I would LOVE it if I could get some tried & true recipes from you seasoned moms. (eventually I want to print them out to have in my kitchen) I will by posting my experiments, if you will, and other recipes that I find around town. Thanks so much! Renee

Support the Marana-Gladden Farms Market!

We went down to the Farmers Market in our neighbor hood-I am so excited that they are having one here it's so convenient for fresh veggies-grown right here! (without pesticides might I add!) We came home with sweet potatoes, garlic and eggplant. We were also able to try different types of veggies that I wasn't familiar with. We came home & made Egg Plant Parmesan which was very good!
If anyone has any produce to sell you are also welcome to set up a table! The Parks from our ward had tons of excellent squash & cucumbers! Please come & support this wonderful event!
Marana Farm Stand
Mondays 4-7pm At the Heritage River Park (Lon Adams to Gladden Farms Dr.)
Melons, summer squash, green beans, eggplant, garlic, sweet potatoes, herbs, corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, cumbers, chilies, okra, winter squash, figs & much more!!!

Good family dentist?

Does anyone have any good recommendations for a good family dentist? I really need one! Thanks

Home Show

I have three FREE admission tickets to the Home Show that is at the Tucson Expo Center. You can go on any of these three days, Sept 19, 20, and 21, 2008. Click here is visit the website. I am not going to use the tickets so if you want to go to the Home Show for free, let me know.

Katie Singley

Amazing Jakes

Sorry if you already know about this "Amazing" place, but for those that don't here ya go. For Labor Day we were in Mesa/Gilbert area and went with the fam to "Amazing Jakes" http://www.amazingjakes.com/mesa/ Chuckie Cheese's x's 3-- This place was HUGE! They had all you can eat pizza, salad, potato bar, desserts, ice cream etc... a cosmic bowling alley, go carts, bumper carts, mini rollercoaster, the "tea cups", every arcade game imagineable...you get the picture... I left out a lot.

They even have different themed rooms you can eat in. Kayden's choice was the movie mania room that was showing 3 different movies on a huge projector. Anyhow... reasonably priced for all you get and a special outing for the whole family. That is..., if you happen to be in the Mesa/Gilbert area.

www.Winkflash.com

If you go to www.winkflash.com and upload your pictures into a book, this is a great deal!

up to 100 page book, for $19.95

use the code   SUMMERBK88

If you need help, let me know, but the deadline is September 16th and best if you finish a day or two early because the site gets bogged down with last minute (day) loading.

enjoy!

Thursday, September 25th- Ice Cream for a donation to Make-a-Wish

Mark your Calendar!



September 25 The World's Largest Ice Cream Social - Nationwide From 5-8 p.m., visit your local Cold Stone Creamery for a free kid scoop. In exchange, the ice cream chain's hoping you'll donate to its Make-a-Wish Foundation Fundraiser!

Click on logo to find your closest Cold Stone!

Sept. 27th-Free Admission To International Wildlife Museum

Enjoy free general admission for you and a guest to our local International Wildlife Museum or participating museums around the country.
Saturday, September 27, 2008


Present the Museum Day admission card to receive free general admission at participating Museum Day locations. The admission card is available in the September 2008 issue of Smithsonian magazine or downloadable from their website. Click here for link.

Sweet Basil

I have so much basil. If any want to come and get some, you are welcome to it. Even better, dig up a plant and take home to your house. It is growing like a weed at mine and there is no way I could ever use it all.

Savvy Savings Tucson

I started a new blog to list good deals and grocery deals for the week. I'm looking for contributors to list deals they find online or in the Tucson area. If you are interested, let me know and I can add you as an author on the blog! Eventually the blog should be tied to the television station.

savvysavingstucson.blogspot.com

Check it out and let me know what you think!

"Mrs. 101"

To see the recipe and a few pictures from Stephanie's KOLD show today I found this online...I was hoping to find the video clip....if you have a link Stephanie, or anyone else, I'd love to see it!

Stephanie's article

Peaches

Hi everybody!! Heather Parris will be ordering peaches from Utah. The deadline for ordering is September 1. Her email address is hsparris@yahoo.com and her phone number is 744-6573. You have to have your money to her before she will place your order.

The peaches are going to be $28.00 for 35 lbs. They will come sometime in the middle of September (maybe sooner/later). If you know of anyone that wants to order any, please let them know. If she doesn't get very many orders, they won't deliver to Tucson. Then she will be forced to cancel the orders.

If you have any questions, please contact her.

Can't help Sharing a Great Deal

Get $10 off a purchase of $10 or more at Blockbuster.com using code augappreciation.

I just ordered 2 movies- The Ultimate Gift and The Inheritance for $5.35 which included the shipping! I'm not sure how long the code will work.

Hairdresser?

I'm in desperate need of a good hairdresser that can work some magic on my hair. Does anybody have anyone they use that they love? I really want to find someone that I can just tell to do something cute and I can trust that they will do something great.

Anyone??

Joy School - Preschool

I know a lot of you already have your children in the Marana Preschool, but this might be worth looking into for next semester as well.

For those of you who are interested in something for your kids now, I am looking for some more kids to join our joy school group starting September 2nd, or so. It is for 3 and 4 year olds, the kids we have so far were born the end of 2004 and beginning of 2005. But the website does say an age variety can be a good thing sometimes (just over 3 and not old enough for kindergarden)

This link says it all http://www.valuesparenting.com/joyschool/

I hear it is best to have 4-6 kids in the group and we have about 3 dedicated to join so far.

With Joy School, each Mom takes turns teaching in her home (weekly or monthly basis). The lessons are prepared already and are based on learning the "JOY" of things in life. Not just ABC's or 123's. It is Christian based, not just LDS. (anyone have neighbors that may be interested?)

There is a fee. The one time fee of $50 is to become a member of the website (has other benefits as well, if I am not mistaken). And then there is a $70 fee for each semester. Tracy Gates has done this before and she said that since 2005 they have made it so that you only have to pay for each semester once per family. So, instead of $140 a year (two yrs total) for Wesly, Travis, and Nathan. I can pay the money for Wesly and when I do this for my younger boys, they will be free. (can't beat free!)

We need to have some Mom meetings before hand and it starts in September, let me know if you are interested! call me, or email me at ckcarbon at msn dot com.

Thanks! Kati

Gigglin' Geckos - August

This Month Gigglin' Geckos will be Tuesday August 19th from 9 to 10 am at Foothills Mall, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th Courtyard.

The theme is: Socket to Me!

Don't miss the fun when Tucson Children's Museum Outreach comes to Foothills Mall for a special Gigglin' Geckos activity. Come make and decorate your very own Windsock to hang in your room or outside.

It's tons of fun and it's FREE. Hope to see you there. :)

Northwest Fire & Carseat Safety

The Northwest Fire & Rescue will offer free inspections of vehicle car seats. The inspections will make sure a seat is in good working order, not a recalled model, compatible with a vehicle & appropriate for a child's size. The fire district's technicians also will teach parents how to correctly install car seats as well as answer any questions about the use of child safety & booster seats. The Northwest Fire inspections are available by calling 887-1010 ext. 5006.

Bassinet

I have an almost new bassinet that we used for Hailey. It looks just like the image above and has the mobile, music, several extra sheets, wheels, rocker, etc.... If anyone would like to borrow it just let me know. You can keep it for as many months as you want. I feel like it's a waste to just keep it stored away. Especially since we won't be needing it again anytime soon!

Looking for a seamstress

I am looking for someone who is great on a sewing machine and is looking for a couple projects to do! If you know of anyone please let me know.
Thanks

Tangerine Farms Road

These are some aerial pictures of our new road. If you zoom in you may be able to find your house.

PASTRY SHOP OR BAKERY?

I was wondering if anyone knew of a fun bakery close by that has good pastries or breads?

GIRLS NIGHT OUT

Hi everybody! I just wanted to update information for the August Girls Night Out. We will be doing a candle sleeve and/or cards at Girls Night Out on August 5 at 6:30 p.m. We will be at the Continental Ranch Community Center. If you need directions, let me know. Kathy Officer will be teaching the class. The candle sleeve is $3.00 (this includes glass holder, candle and supplies to make the sleeve) and the cards will be $5.00 (this is a set of 3 cards which will be birthday and thank you). Please sign up by August 1 if you are interested in attending. Have a great day!!

Hairdresser

Does anyone have any recommendations for an awesome hairdresser?? I have been living here for over two years and have not found a good hairdresser. And I don't visit Vegas often enough to go to my amazing hairdresser there :) I hope this is ok to post on here, because I need a haircut so bad!

snack tray for kids

Here is a great idea for a party, a little kid get together or whatever. Kind of fun way for them to try new foods! Plus it looks cute!

Lopeman Yard Sale

I am passing on the word for Marcie that she is going to have yard sale this Friday and Sat from 7:00-1:00 at her house. Anyone that wants to bring stuff to sell is welcome and anyone that wants to come look to buy anything is welcome. She also has a bunch of little girl clothes that you can look at before she puts them out for the yard sale. Contact her at 616-6196 with any questions.

Girls Night Out

GIRLS NIGHT OUT!!

Hi everybody!! My name is Vicki Susa. I am the mother of five children (ages 8 to 16). I send out emails for a Girls Night Out group and Cherise invited me to join your blog to let you in on the group information. I would love for any of you who are not on the list, to come join us for lots of fun. Those of you who are already on the email and haven't been out for awhile, I would love to see you again.

I wanted to share our upcoming events with you. I will send more information each month, but this is so you can put it on you calendar.

August 5 at 6:30 p.m. Card making with Kathy Officer

September 2 at 6:30 p.m. Fleece blankets with Robin Bringhurst (picture above--these are different from the traditional knot tying)

October 7 at 6:30 p.m. Wood craft with Robyn Nogales

November 11 at 6:30 p.m. Layered jars

December 2 at 6:30 p.m. Christmas party at my home (this date may be changed depending on Enrichment Nights).

I look forward to seeing any of you interested in our group.

Vicki

ARIZONA REPUBLIC

Hi Everyone- we are trying to get the Arizona Republic delivered out here so we can use the coupons foe Coupon Sense and Pinching you Pennies and whatever else people need them for - but we are getting conflicting info on whether or not they are delivered here. As of now we are being told that there is a route here but not enough people have requested the Republic to make it profitable to deliver out here - so I am trying to get a count of how many people would order the paper if it was out here and how many papers you would get- for example I would get the paper Tuesday through Sun but get 4-5 papers on Sunday. I pay about $30 a month which includes membership to coupon sense and the paper subscription. The paper subscription itself is $16 a month but that is with 4 Sunday papers. So if you are interested please let me know. Also if you are interested in coupon sense or pinching your pennies let me know as well.

Ice Cream Butterfinger Pie

Butterfinger Pie
1 c crushed graham cracker
1/2 c saltine crackers
1/2 c butter
crush crackers well, melt butter and mix butter and crackers together. push into bottom of a cake pan. (9x13)

2 pkgs vanilla instant pudding
2 cups cold milk
(mix together well & set aside)

4 c cool whip
1/2 gallon ice cream (I buy the vanilla ice crm that comes in a rectangle contanier...take the container off and slice it up with a knife... this way it goes in the mixer and mixes easier and faster) Mix cool whip and ice cream

Mix pudding mixture with ice cream/cool whip mixture

6 butterfinger bars (4inside and 2 for on top)
smash with hammer
add the 4 crushed bars to the ice cream mixture and pour into pan on top of crust. sprinkle remaining butterfinger pieces on top.

Put into freezer for a couple hours. You can test it with a knife. You want it to be firm enough to cut but not solid frozen. (sometimes I put it into the freezer over night and then let it thaw for an hour before the event on the counter or in the fridge)

Sale

Children's Place is having an end of season sale. 30 % off all non-sale items (I think) and many racks are marked down to $3.99, $2.99 and even $1.99. We stocked up on things for next summer for our kids and got a great deal.

Desert Museum

Riley has been doing the summer reading program at the library this month. He earned a child's pass to the Desert Museum, but children 5 and under are free so we will not be using it. If anyone out there is interested in it, please let me know. I'd love for someone to get to use it.

COUPONING

Just an FYI if you're interested in couponing. If you become a member (which is free) on www.pinchingyourpennies.com they have a deal with the Arizona Republic now that allows you to get up to 6 set of coupons each week. I did this in Utah and loved it! It allows you to stock up on good sales. Good way to get a food storage for cheaper. The prices for the paper range from $18/month to $27/month depending on how many extra Sunday papers you want. It might sound like a lot but I promise you will save more than this every month if you use your coupons. If you have any questions, let me know and I can help you. I am so excited they finally have this offer here in Arizona.

Cute Swimsuits!

A friend of mine, (thanks justina) had this website on her blog with cute modest swimsuits. Upon browsing on their site I looked up at the top of the page and it said "Your cart is empty, how sad for you" Isn't that the truth!! There are some cute swimsuits on this site and I thought I would share :)

the website is:
http://www.limericki.com/

Movies on Monday July 7th

Come join us with the kids to see "Happy Feet". It is showing at The Tower's Theatres on Arizona Pavillions Dr. (Southwest of Walmart) The cost is $1 for adults and kids are free!!
Meet at 9:45 so we can all sit together, show starts at 10am

Desert Deals Diva

Denae found this link and I thought it would be a good reference for deals, coupon saving, etc. I put the link on the side of the blog. This lady is here in Tucson and she posts all of her great finds and deals. Check it out! Happy Saving :)

http://www.desertdealsdiva.blogspot.com/

Trinity Gymnastics

I have been taking Riley to Trinity for gymnastics for several months. I just received their fall schedule and they are taking registrations now. They have parent/tot classes for children 1-2 1/2 years and then starting at 2 1/2 they can go to class alone (my favorite part!). The classes start at $6/week and go up depending on how long class is. The younger children have 30 minute classes. They also have dance and art classes. The gym is off Shannon at Ina (right behind LA Fitness). The ladies that teach are great. Riley really enjoys going and has lots of fun. If anyone is interested in a copy of the schedule, please let me know. Their contact info is 797-8100 or TrinityTucson@gmail.com.

e.l.f. Make-up from Nordstrom

I just went to the Nordstrom website, because thought I would look at the elf makeup that they have and I found the following on their website about a warning with elf makeup and an email that people are receiving.

06/18/2008
Customer Alert - eyeslipsface.com

We have learned that some of our customers received e-mails from an unauthorized and unknown source regarding the website eyeslipsface.com. We want you to know that Nordstrom and Nordstrom.com are not affiliated with eyeslipsface.com or the e.l.f. product line, nor with any e-mail regarding that website or product line. Nordstrom does not sell e.l.f. products.

In general, you should always use caution and verify the authenticity of any website before providing information over the Internet. Also be aware of e-mails from unknown sources as they may contain a link to a fraudulent website specifically set up to capture and fraudulently use personal or account information. These websites are sometimes called "mirror" sites and may give the appearance of the true website.

Please know that Nordstrom would not ask for your account information through e-mail communication. If you receive an e-mail asking for any personal or account information appearing to be from Nordstrom, or is claiming affiliation with Nordstrom, please forward the information to onlinefraud@nordstrom.com or call us at 1-888-282-6060.

If you think you may have disclosed your account information in error or have been a victim of fraudulent account activity, please contact your bank and/or credit card company immediately.

Basil!

We have tons of basil growing, if anyone would like a bunch just let me know. We have sweet & lime.
We love to use the basil on homemade pizza with tomatoes & mozzarella with pesto sauce. You can make your own pesto, dry the leaves to crush or store fresh leaves in olive oil to use in sauteing chicken for example. We also have garlic chives.-Renee

Happy Father's Day Idea

I found this on a blog and thought it was a cute idea, if your up for it. :)



For more info, this idea was courtesy of Valita

Summer Pajamas

Target has a super deal on the "Just One Year" brand of pjs. Carters is the only brand I buy because it always fits my boys' waists. They have sets with 2 shirts and 2 short bottoms for $10. The sizes are 12 month-5T. I also found some on the clearance rack (same 4 piece set) for $3.50 and $6.50.

Playgroup at the Alexander's Farm

Sorry if we missed you! Here is a picture of the playgroup at the farm. The kids had lots of fun riding the horse, chasing chickens, and petting the goats. Hopefully we can do it again when it gets a bit cooler. If you have some cute pictures, post 'em!

 

Gigglin' Geckos - June

This month for Gigglin' Geckos they will be having magic tricks by David Bryan. All the kids are suppose to get a magic trick to take home. It will be June 17th from 9 to 10 at Foothills Mall in the Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th Courtyard.

See ya there. :)

Children's Books

I am wondering what your favorite Children's Books are. I can never seem to pick out good books at the library to read to Kayden. We are doing their summer reading program and I need some good ideas.
If you can will you post your top 10 or more favorite children's books? I appreciate your help and ideas!

Children's Museum $1 nights

The Tucson children's Museum has a deal for every Monday night from the first Mon in June (4th) through the first Mon in August (4th). It is normally $7 for adults and $5 for kids 2-18.

"Enjoy a summer evening at the Museum during Monsoon Monday Nights!
$1 admission per person
5pm to 8pm
Sponsored by the Marguerite Casey Foundation 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM"

Also, if you are looking for fun this Saturday afternoon...it is MORE than $1 but looks like fun.
"Physics Phun SAT MAY 31st
You have never experienced learning science quite like this: hovercraft, "light sabers," lightning machine and giant rings of smoke. Not to mention lots of other Phun surprises! 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM"
Check out more fun stuff they have on their website.
www.tucsonchildrensmuseum.org
I have never been there, but you will probably see me with my family if you go Monday Night June 4th. :) I'll let you know if it is worth it. If you have an advice or have been there before I would love to hear about it!

Tower Theatres Free Movies

Free admission for all kids under 10.
M-F at 10 am - June 2nd - Aug 8th

June 2-6 101 Dalmations
June 9-13 Night at the Museum
June 16-20 Surf's up
June 23-27 George of the Jungle
June 30-July 4 Alvin and the Chimpmunks
July 7-11 Happy Feet
July 14-18 Evan Almighty
July 21-25 Open Season
July 28- Aug 1 Horton Hears a Who or Ice Age 2
Aug 4 - Aug 8 The Water Horse

Gigglin' Geckos - May

This month Gigglin Geckos will be help Tuesday, May 20th from 9 to 10 am at Foothills Mall, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th Courtyard.

It is Joseph Kougn, 4th Degree Black Belt and Chief Instructor for COuntryside Karate of Arizona. He will teach the young geckos self confidence, discipline, and respect.

Should be lots of fun. See you there. :)

Are your kids driving you crazy?

Do you need an activity to get your kids out of the house?
Here is a free option, offered next week.

Monday, May 19th @ 9:30am
International Wildlife Museum
4800 W. Gates Pass Road
Tucson AZ 85745

International Museum Day
Celebrate International Museum Day with free admission with a donation of a nonperishable food item to help the Tucson Community Food Bank. Explore the museum and enjoy other activities including live animal encounters, wildlife films every hour, and the newest rotating exhibit “Living Fossils”.

Live animal encounters at 10 a.m, noon, 2 p.m.

Cost »
all ages free with a donation of nonperishable food item
To view their website:
http://www.thewildlifemuseum.org

Dishtowel Bib

Catherine Hall's mom had this idea and I loved it. I have been looking for a bib with sleeves and one that is tight fitting. My kids destroy their clothes when they eat, even with a plastic bib on. So here is the solution. This is a bib made out of dishtowels purchased at Costco. They come in a pack of 10 for 13.86? I think. The only other purchase is bias tape. Or in my case I bought some cheap fabric at walmart and made my on bias tape. Either way (maybe 1 or 2 dollars?)
Here is a slideshow of the instructions start to finish. Even a "non-sewer" can do this. If you don't have a sewing machine come over and you can borrow mine. I'd be glad to help.

View Album

Get your own

(Free) Gym Membership

I found this on one of the sites I posted on the Penny Pinching post I did. You get 3 FREE weeks at Curves when you bring in the caps off of milk. Maybe I will finally lose that baby weight!

http://www.whymilk.com/curves.php?ref=CALLOUT

From March 17th through July 17th, 2008, get 3 Weeks free at Curves when you bring in 3 Milk Caps to a participating Curves club. Offer valid with 3 milk caps from any 3 fluid milk containers. Three free weeks must be redeemed on first visit or exchanged for special membership discount. Limit of one 3 week Curves membership per person. Not valid with any other offer, no cash value and new members only. Valid only at participating Curves locations. Offer valid only in US.

When I went to Curves website I also found this promotion they are doing:

http://www.curves.com/about_curves/sponsorship.php
CALLING ALL WOMEN!PARTICIPANTS NEEDED Be a part of the Curves / Avon Fitness Study: THE LARGEST FITNESS STUDY FOR WOMEN EVER!YOU WILL RECEIVE:
A Start and Finish Fitness Evaluation
30 Days Free on CurvesComplete.com – the Complete Solution to Managing Your Weight
Supervised Training from a Curves Trainer
30 Days for $30 *Work Out 3 Times a Week for 4 Weeks CALL YOUR LOCAL CURVES CLUB TO PARTICIPATE BY JUNE 20, 2008.

Firestation Tomorrow

Come tomorrow and bring your kids to the Marana Firestation. We will be meeting there at 10am and they will give us a tour of the station, trucks, hoses etc. It should be fun!!!

I believe if you pass the church(headed North), turn left on Grier and left on Civic Center Dr., and the firestation is on the right.

A Little Penny Pinching

I was at the Post Office the other day and stamps are going up in price once more. The lady told me to buy these "forever" stamps that I can use regardless of the price.

I also found these that I thought were interesting & wanted to share:

*Tired of paying a fee each time you dial 411? Dial 800-FREE-411 then follow the prompts to get your desired number.

*The BBC is on a mission to enrich people's lives. They are offering language lessons for free, such as Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Greek, Mandarin Chinese & more. visit http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/

*One person's castoff is another person's treasure at FreeCycle

This is a local chapter dedicated to helping the environment by reusing goods & keeping stuff out of landfills. http://www.freecycle.org/

*Bargain websites http://dealnews.com/ & http://mybargainbuddy.com/ & http://slickdeals.net/

*I have joined this website because I am obsessed with books. I have been able to find LDS authors & some books that are hard to find from my childhood. http://www.paperbackswap.com/index.php

72hr kits

My sister-in-law put this together and I thought it was pretty cool.

Assembly Date:

Suggested Rotation: 2 years

Water Needed: 1 gallon

Day 1

BREAKFAST 1 pkg Oatmeal1 can Juice

LUNCH 1 pkg Ramen1 pkg Crackers

DINNER 1 pkg Beef Jerky1 Fruit Snack1 Apple Cider

Day 2

BREAKFAST 1 pkg Oatmeal1 Hot Chocolate

LUNCH 1 Granola Bar1 Fruit Snack1 Apple Cider

DINNER 1 can Soup1 pkg Crackers

Day 3

BREAKFAST 1 Granola Bar1 Fruit Snack1 Instant Breakfast

LUNCH 1 pkg Ramen1 pkg Crackers

DINNER 2 Granola Bars1 Fruit Snack1 Hot Chocolate

SNACKS Hard Candy

(suggestion use a Kearns Fruit Drink as an extra for ea. meal)

Saving Money Adds Up

I know we're having a mid-week activity at the end of the month but I thought I'd share this website now. It's called Sister Savings. A good friend passed this along and from what I've checked out it seems to be really useful. Every little bit counts, right?

Midweek Calendar

So, I am very excited that I figured out this new google calendar feature. Anyhow... Scroll to the bottom of the blog and you will find the midweek activities for the upcoming months. If you click on one of the dates, it will have the info on the activity. I know some of us are looking for things to do, and now you can stay updated with this cool calendar. Maybe it will or won't be helpful. -you will have to let me know. Also, if you know of people that are not on this blog, and you think will be interested... please let me know and I would be happy to add them.
PS... we have some fun stuff this next month... Pump it Up and a tour at the Marana Fire station. -I hope these days work out for you guys!

WHEAT GRINDERS

I want to buy a wheat grinder, but I know nothing about them. Does anyone own one or have any tips for me? I've been looking online, but it's overwhelming with all the choices.
Thanks, Denae

Really Good Recipes

http://greenlitebites.com/2007/11/21/moist-pumpkin-bran-muffins/

My sister in law has found some really good recipes from this site that are super healthy. These muffins were really good. We added shredded carrot and chocolate chips (that was Darrell's doing) Turner loved them!

Yogurt Recipe

I should have just posted this before. Sorry!
Let me know if this is unclear or you need one of us to explain.


(Recipe courtesy of Renee :))

Yogurt

2 quarts milk
3 T fresh plain yogurt must contain active cultures -not gelatin (use Mt. High original/plain yogurt, can be purchased at Fry’s) -call me if you want some, I have a large container!
2 C instant milk
¼ C sugar

*make sure utensils and jars are sterilized

heat 1 qt milk to warm, 110 degrees
whisk in yogurt, powdered milk, and sugar
scald 2nd quart of milk, heat until small bubbles form in pan
add (hot) 2nd qt of milk to yogurt mixture and stir together
yields 2 qts and 1 pint jar

Wrap in blanket folding in fourths roll jars in it and place in cooler
Maintaining a temperature between 106 and 120 degrees and let sit in cooler for 6-8 hours

Gigglin' Gecko Kids Day

Gigglin' Geckos Kids Day at Foothills Mall is this next Tuesday, April 15th from 9 to 10. This month Gymboree will be there. The post card says.. come enjoy an exciting hour of movement, musical instruments, parachute play and bulled time with Gymboree. It is on the south end of the mall just outside of Barnes and Nobles inner door in the Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th Courtyard. If any of you are interested come have some fun. See you there!!

Allergies

Just to add a little plug to the Oro Valley Farmer's Market... I was speaking with my pediatrician the other day about wholistic methods of treating children. She was telling me that she has put a few of her patients (that have allergies and need allergy shots) on 1 tblsp of honey a day instead. This honey is purchased at the Oro Valley Farmer's Market. She was saying that a man sells honey from his -local- bee's. She was explaining that because of the pollen they carry (being local, from our plants/flowers) is the same as giving your children allergy shots. Basically helping them create an immunity or helping their body fight the allergy -caused by the pollen here locally.
Kinda cool and interesting huh? So, for all of you allergy people -here ya go! :)

Farmers Market

Oro Valley Farmers Market at the Town Hall 11000 N. La Canada Dr. Organic fruits, vegetables, breads, pastries, aromatherapy, salsa, flowers, soap and more.

8am-Noon Saturdays

http://www.ourgardencatalina.com/ is another place you can find fresh produce.

HotSlings

When I read the last blog it reminded me about the HotSlings contraption that I used to use for Turner all the time. I even used it when Turner was 11 months old to carry him on my hip when we had tons of running around to do (it goes up to 30lbs). I fully intend to use it when I have another child so that I can keep my sanity around the house. (Especially if you have a baby that just will not let you set them down!) I have seen other carriers, but this one was SO easy to put on and so portable-just fold up and carry around in the diaper bag. I had to go way on the East side but now Target sells them is cool colors. Make sure that you check out their measurement chart and several ways to "sling" you baby on their website.

Question for seasoned moms

How do you take a newborn and a two-year-old grocery shopping? Miles needs the child seat in the cart because I know he won't sit still enough without it, but I obviously can't just stick Hailey's car seat in the cart because there will be no room for food. I'm at a loss...What have you guys in the same situation done?

Homemade Yogurt

So the other day Renee and I decided to experiment with making yogurt. I can't take the credit, it was Renee's idea and recipe. Anyhow, not only was it suprisingly easy it was amazing! -I think it took us maybe an hour, and then you leave it in a cooler for several hours. Lets just say, anyone can do it! I don't usually eat yogurt but I love this! Not to mention you can flavor it however you want. Kayden eats yogurt for breakfast everyday and I am so excited for this cheaper better option. If you want the recipe let us know.
-Cherise & Renee

Recipe for some good Taco Soup

My sister made this while I was at her house and it is so good that I thought I would share the recipe.

Chicken (either 4 breasts or 6 tenderloins)
Boil with water (shallow) until cooked and tender, chopping up slightly.

Dashes of salt
Garlic powder or salt
Onion powder or chopped onion
1 pkg taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can corn, or frozen
1 can refried beans
1 can pork & beans
1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)
1 can of pinto or kidney beans
Stir together

Add 1 pkg dry ranch dressing
Stir and cook over medium heat until beans are soft and is thick. Then put on low heat.

Serve with tortilla chips, sour cream, and cheese sprinkled on top. And enjoy!!