Dr. Seuss Event at Bookmans

You're invited to celebrate the beloved author Dr. Seuss' 106th birthday with Bookmans! All ages are welcome to come enjoy refreshments, games, crafts and Seuss story time!

Tucson (Grant store): Saturday, February 27, 10:00 a.m.

The Cat in the Hat will also be making a special appearance at Tucson's Dr. Seuss Birthday Party at Bookmans Grant. Bookmans will be providing free keepsake pictures with that special Cat at the event. (Thanks, Tamara, for this information!)

Enter Bookmans "Love of Reading contest"and you could win a $50 gift certificate. Go to your nearest Bookmans and fill out a form nominating your favorite book and tell us how it inspired your love of reading, OR you can e-mail your entries to loveofreading@bookmans.com. More details in the Bookmans newsletter here.

Contact info

I forgot to mention that if you need directions or anything you can email me at jenicone@yahoo.com.  Hope to see you tomorrow!

Dinosaurs in the Park

Dinosaur Day
Thursday, February 4th
10-11am
at the gated park at Misty Brook & Silverbell
(in the case of rain, we'll do it at my house)

If you never got a chance to go to the Trex museum here in town before they closed their doors, this is your chance to see what they were all about.  They are going to be coming to our neighborhood park to give a hands on presentation where the kids get to touch real fossils, see pictures, and ask questions.  Then they'll get to do a "fossil dig" where each child gets to dig for and take home real fossils like 80 million year old shark teeth, ammonites, crinoids, etc. Feel free to invite your friends. It's going to be fun :)

Your Help Is Needed!!

Hi Ladies,

This morning I read the first presidency official address regarding Haiti: http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/first-presidency-appeals-to-church-members-to-help-people-in-haiti

And the church has asked that, "members.. donate to Church Humanitarian Services as their means allow in order to help our Haitian brothers and sisters."

I thought of an Idea: Cookies For Haiti

I was wondering if you would be willing to bake a couple dozen cookies and bring them to me by next Thursday Feb 11th. I am going to package them really cute (with a "Cookies For Haiti" sign on each of them) and have some cute kids I know sell them around gladden farms for $1 per pack (I was thinking three cookies per package).

The proceeds will be donated to the Church's Humanitarian Emergency Response fund.

Please e-mail or call me if you are interested in helping!

Thanks,
Danielle

Stinky countertops

Okay ladies- I need some help. My granite countertops have started to stink like mildew or something. We have been in this house for 9 months and it has never happened before. I just use soap and water to clean them and a clean rag. Does anyone have any ideas to get them to stop stinking? I have also tried the Clorox anywhere spray and Clorox wipes but they dont work. Any ideas? Anyone?

It's Back!!

I love this deal that winkflash.com does and this year they even offer different sized books for the flat rate sale!

http://www.winkflash.com/books/

I usually get the 8x10 for about $19 with 100 pages. (not including S&H) They are also offering one for 12.95 (8x8) with up to 100 pages. Offer end Jan 27th.

Get it started now, one year I had a hard time working on it on the last day because everyone else was too!

I would love to hear about it if you make one! I love this deal! normally it would be over $60 to get that many pages! $20+/- for 20 pages and $0.50 for every page after that!

3/20 Beat Cancer Boot Camp Challenge Event

Anita Kellman, one of my fellow contributors at KVOA, leads an amazing boot camp for women with cancer. They are having a special Challenge 5K Obstacle Course on March 20th.

Heart Garland

I found this cute idea for V-day decorating with a preschooler.




The instructions are here:
http://servingpinklemonade.blogspot.com/2010/01/heart-garland.html

Disney for Free

I'm sure most of you have seen the commercials about the new Disney Parks promotion. It's called "give a day, get a Disney day". You sign up at www.disneyparks.com and you select an organization to volunteer with. After you complete their requirements you get a voucher for a free day at a Disney park. The program is good for ages 6+. The Community Food Bank (including the Marana Farm) is one of the organizations participating in this program. I think this is a great opportunity for us to serve in our community, plus get something fun for ourselves. I just confirmed my volunteer day and the time requirement is 3 hours. How can you beat 3 hours of work for a ticket worth $72?

Udder Covers Deal

There is a great promo code for 90% off on our 3 piece gift sets which include the Udder Cover™ nursing cover of your choice, a matching Milk Bands™ breastfeeding bracelet and 2 pairs of 5 ply washable 100% cotton breast pads!

My sister and sister-in-law both have covers from this company and love them!

If you’re not currently nursing, you probably know someone who is or shortly will be! They make great baby shower gifts! We are running a promotion where you can get any of our 3 piece gift sets (regular price $46) for only $5 + S&H ($9.95).
The code is "thanks".

Go to www.uddercovers.com , click on "Shop Now", scroll down to the gift sets, select the one you would like and you will automatically be repositioned to the center of the page where you can enter in the promo code! Type in thanks and it will bring your product total to $5! We are not sure how long this promotion can last.

Call To Action

I have been getting more and more disgusted by the advertising coming from Carls Jr. OneMillionMoms.com is urging moms all across the country to voice their disgust at the advertising being used.

(1) CKE Restaurants is a hamburger business catering to family yet they consistently have used s*x to try to sell their product.

(2) In 2003, Hardee's (Carl's Jr.) featured Hugh Hefner as a poster celebrity.

(3) Hardee's also used an er*tic ad featuring a mechanical bull and a scantily clad female.

(4) In 2005, Hardee's used a p*rnographic ad with Paris Hilton using sleazy movements to sell burgers.

(5) In 2009, Hardee's featured their new "Biscuit holes." In the ad, various customers individually name them using such verbiage as B holes, A holes, dingle balls, and biscatles (as in testicles).

(6) In 2009, Carl's Jr. has just launched its newest in a series of raunchy s*x-laden ads. You may have seen the new salad commercial with the scantly dressed lady eating salad in the bath tub.

The *s keep our site g-rated. :-)

What you can do? Their complaint line # is: 1-877-799-7827.

Please call and voice your disgust to Carl's Jr.

Cleaning Recipes

To follow Cherise's post about vinegar, there will be a hand out in the new Home Preparedness binder on sunday, this includes a list of 30 cleaning recipes that use Vinegar, Bleach, Baking Soda, Borax, 3%Hydrogen Peroxide, Washing Soda, Liquid Castile/Dawn/Classic Ivory soap & Zote/Fels Naptha bar soap. In which you can deodorize, disinfect, clean, sanitize, degrease & scrub.
If you can't get a copy then, email me and I will send them to you or post them a little at a time on the site.

Favorites!

Do you have Favorite Deals or Finds -that you just LOVE??

Here are a few of mine:

Floor Sweeper/Dustbuster
I have the Orek version of this (which is now discontinued) but this is the next best thing out there. I even checked consumer reports and this rates very well. I have used this particular model at my mother-in-law's and love it.

In my opinion must haves are:

• dustbuster (that is removeable)
• cordless
• lightweight (so my boys can do it)
• has the option of doing a quick job on the carpets (not to replace a floor vac)
  
  I use this [AT LEAST] 3 x's a day.
  

Lip Gloss
This amazing lip gloss from victoria secret (thanks for the tip Nikki!)
It stays on forever and doesn't gum up and get gross (make sense??) -plus it is shimmery :)

(my favorite flavor/color: Strawberry fizz) $7 ea. or 2 for $12


Cloth Swim Diapers
You can purchase (during the summer) Cloth Swim Diapers.
I think they are around $10ish at Target. Huge $ saver and more comfortable.
-sorry no picture, couldn't find one... but you get the idea.

Vinegar
Yes. Don't be afraid. This stinky stuff is AMAZING.
-I use this for fabric softner(I swear it doesn't make your clothes smell)
-Carpet Rinse -to release and soap residue
-In my sink to get rid of nasty lingering smells
-In the wash to counter act urine smell from my little boy's accidents :)

Here are more amazing uses for Vinegar
http://www.angelfire.com/cantina/homemaking/vinegar.html


Dry Cleaners
On Ina/Thornydale there is a Dry Cleaning place (name?). It's located on the North West Corner of Ina/Thornydale- Same Plaza as Big Lots/Radio Shack/McDonalds.
There prices are 1.75 per item or 2.50 for coats/jackets or specialty items. They do a sufficient job and it's cheap. Love it.
What are a few of your favorite finds?? Please post!

Papa Murphy's: Gladden Farms Delivery and Deals

Yesterday I took the night off from cooking and stopped by Papa Murphy's. They sell amazing take and bake pizzas and always have great specials going on.

Made fresh the moment you order, Papa Murphy’s prepares a variety of unique pizzas that you pick up, take home, and cook yourself. Six-time winner of “Best Pizza Chain in America” consumers’ choice award.

The current deals for the store at Silverbell/Cortaro are:

Chicken Bacon Artichoke deLITE Pizza

Large Pizza for only $7.99

Large 1-topping pizza for $7.99 or

Family Size 1-topping pizza for $9.99

Gladden Farms and Surrounding Area Only Special: They started doing Friday night delivery to Gladden Farms Community Association office again. If you place your order before Friday, they are throwing in a free order of cheese bread wheel, cinnamon wheel, or cookie dough with your order. There is a 3pm cutoff for orders delivered to Gladden Farms on Friday. Call the Silverbell/Cortaro location for this deal- (520) 744-7122

Gladden Farms Specials:

Game Day Meal Deal: $19.99

• (2) Large 1-Topping Pizzas
• Choice of Side (Cheesy Bread, Cinnamon Wheel or Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough)
• 2-liter of Soda (Pepsi Products)

Make it a 16" Family for only $4 more ($23.99) ($2/per pizza)

Meal Deal: $12.99

• Large 1-Topping Pizza
• Choice of Side (Cheesy Bread, Cinnamon Wheel or Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough)
• 2-liter of Soda (Pepsi Products)

Make it a 16" Family for only $2 more ($14.99)

Girl Scout Cookie Time

It's Girl Scout Cookie time and I have 173 boxes of cookies looking for a home.
They are $4 per box.

Do-Si-Dos®: A sandwich cookie. The round, bumpy perforated oatmeal cookie top and bottom surrounds a peanut butter-flavored layer inside.

Trefoils: These shortbread cookies are shaped like the Girl Scout Trefoil design.

Lemon Chalet Cremes™: Featuring a design of Our Chalet in Switzerland, a beloved Girl Scout World Center, this sandwich cookie has a touch of cinnamon-ginger spice that evokes the warmth of a fireside chat on a snowy evening.

Thank U Berry Munch™: New for 2010. Real premium cranberries provide a delightful tartness in these hearty cookies sweetened with creamy, white fudge chips.

Dulce de Leche: Inspired by the classic confections of Latin America, these sweet, bite-size cookies are rich with milk caramel chips.

Thin Mints: The most enduring and universally familiar Girl Scout cookie. These round, mint-flavored cookies covered with dark chocolate perennially sell the most boxes of any cookie.

Samoas®: These are round doughnut-shaped cookies about two inches in diameter with a hole in the center, covered in caramel and toasted coconut, and then striped with chocolate.

Tagalongs®: These are round cookies with a layer of peanut butter on top, and covered in chocolate.

We deliver free to those in Marana. Call 407-6364 and ask for Stephanie!

Bountiful Baskets

I wasn't sure if everyone was aware that Bountiful Baskets now has a pick up in Marana!
http://www.bountifulbaskets.org/

Hartman / Overton - Marana/DeGrazia Elementary School
DeGrazia Elementary School, a Tucson city school, 5051 West Overton Road, Tucson.
From I-10, go east on Cortaro Farms Road. Turn north (right) onto Camino de Oeste. Turn left onto Bald Eagle Avenue. Turn west (left) onto Overton Road.

Dishwasher distress!

Anyone else notice that lately their dishwasher is leaving a
chalky film all over their dishes? I don't know if the water
company is using harder water, but for several months
now my dishes don't look clean when they come out of
the dishwasher. I was talking with Autumn and Alisa
about this a few weeks ago, and Alisa told me about this
product called Lemi Shine. I ran out and bought it the
next day.You have to run it through your empty
diswasher first, and then after several uses I noticed
a big difference. I've used it for a few weeks now,
along with dish detergent, and my dishes are now
coming out clean! Yea! It's not cheap- I think it was
about $4 at Walmart for a small container that lasts
a couple weeks. It was worth it to me. Check out their
website for details
www.envirocontech.com/products/Learn-More-about-Lemi-Shine.html
Thanks for the great tip Alisa! Just thought I'd pass it along!

12/17 FREE Booster Seats

Kohl's Cares for kids and the TMC Foundation are giving
FREE booster seats for children who qualify
* Age 5 or older
* Over 40 pounds
* Family vehicle with working lap & shoulder belts
* Children must be present!

Give your child a life saving gift!

Thursday, December 17
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Kohl's Store
5850 W. Arizona Pavillions Drive

Any questions? Call 520-324-5604

Udder Covers Deal for Expecting Mothers

Uddercovers.com has a great deal going on. I've been on the hunt for baby deals with 2 nieces coming soon! If you know someone who is expecting and planning on nursing, this is an amazing gift! I ordered one of these and had it shipped to my sister in West Virginia. Hope she doesn't check my blog. :-)

The covers normally cost $32 plus $8.95 shipping. Use Promo Code: Christmas
to get one for FREE. You only pay the $8.95 shipping!

DVD

I saw on Stephanie's Savvy Savings blog a couple months ago an offer for a free "Team GeoTrax" DVD and I ordered it. Well, Fisher Price sent me 3 of the exact same DVDs today.  Would anybody like one of my two extra? Might be a good stocking stuffer for a toddler/pre-schooler boy.

LEAPSTER GAME

In my moving, I found this game that was given to my daughter 2 years ago from her great grandma for her birthday. It didn't work with her game system and I never exchanged it. It has never been open (the box is a little torn on the back), but essentially it's brand new. If anyone wants it, let me know and you can have it!

Leap Frog
Leapster Learning Game System
Pet Pals

Windows Live Hotmail

Hey just an FYI for you my sister in law makes these christmas cards and they're really cute If you want some one to do them for you just look up the link below.


"Hey Friends and Family....

I am doing Christmas Cards again this year... I love doing it. Please let me know how I can personalize your Christmas Card this year.

http://picasaweb.google.com/kenzielandvatter/ChristmasCards?feat=directlink

Prices are as follows....
Size
5 X 7 (Recommended cards seem to look and turn out the best)
Envelope is included
$.80/each

4 X 6
Envelope is included
$.60/each"

BOXES

We are in need of some moving boxes very soon. Does anyone have some they want to get rid of or know someone that might??

Thanks, Denae

Winter Coats

Winter Coats

I am helping some friends collect winter coats for men, women and children. Those coats will be donated to several shelters here in Tucson. If you would like to help us reach our goal of 100 coats by donating your new or used coats please contact Chrissy Beach. I will gladly pick them up!:)

Home: 682-1299
E-mail: chrissybeach@yahoo.com

We are hoping to be able to deliver our coats by December 7th. Thank you so much for your help in sharing with others!:)

Homemade Pies

Hello, Everyone!
I am selling Homemade Pies this year for Thanksgiving. If anyone is interested, check out my site. www.homemadepies.blogspot.com
Thanks!
Autumn

Eggplant

I have 6 large eggplant veggies I just got from our garden this morning. If you want some/all  let me know and you are welcome to have it! (A lot of people ask what you do with eggplant. I used our other eggplants to make Eggplant Parmesan--but there are multiple recipes using eggplant online too.) If you've never tried it here's a chance without paying $1.50 per eggplant at the grocery store (at least last time I looked that's how much each one was...)

Pumpkin Recipies

Do you have a great pumpkin cookie recipe? or pumpkin muffins? I am feeling like pumpkin something today... Chocolate chips included... :)

Looking for a Babysitter??

This is an email I received and thought some might be interested. Jen??? :)

Hello. I came across your blog - and I thought I'd send you a quick e-mail to let you know I'm a babysitter in the area. I live in Continental Ranch and Nanny for a family in the neighborhood and also for a family in Continental Reserve. I also occasionally watch a family Gladden Farms. I'm 24, and a graduate of the University of Cincinnati (Criminal Justice). While in school I was a nanny for a family of two boys, 3 days a week. I also helped out at an in home childcare for about a year. I have been CPR certified (Infant, Child & Adult) many times in the past, but that needs to be renewed. I also took a class on Allergies(form the Red Cross I believe) while working at the in-home childcare.

I have a ton of experience, references and a resume upon request. I love crafts, baking, and being outside - I usually try to incorporate these activities while I'm babysitting.

While I have a regular babysitting job, I'm always looking for extra hours here or there. Whether you need me to get the kids out of the house for a couple hours, watch them while you do some shopping, or watch them while you go out for the evenings...

(I have her info... send me an email if you are interested)
-Cherise

Fun Upcoming Activities

Thanks Melanie for putting this together!
If you have ideas such as this... post them! or comment!

November
Nov 7 Grand Opening Celebration at DeMont Family Swim, 2850 W Ina Rd #130. Free family swim, pizza, ice cream, autographs by 2008 Olympians and more! More info at 877-SWIM.

Nov 7-8 Tucson Celtic Festival and Scottish Highland Games, Rillito Raceway Park at River Rd and 1st Ave. Sat 9-10 and Sun 9-5. Adults $12, Senior/Military $9, Kids 6-15 $5, Free under 5. Get $2 discount on adult admission for canned food donation. Sat night 7pm is Celtic Fire performance.
Highlights: Life-size board game “Quest for the Castle Keep!”, Scottish and Irish music and dance, Scottish Heavy Athletics (big guys throwing big things), Celtic Kids Athletic Competition, petting zoo, storytellers, jumping castles, jousting and rock climbing wall, bagpipes, booths, food and more!

Nov 7 Mister Rogers Sweater Drive at UofA Mall, 11am-3pm. Bring new or gently-used sweater to Arizona Public Media Tent or drop off at any Shaffer Dry Cleaning location Nov 1-7.

Through Dec 31, 2009 Hughes Credit Union will give 2 free passes to the Desert Museum for all kids (age 0-17) who join Hughes. See www.hughesfcu.org under ‘Youth & Money’ for more details.

Ongoing
Kids Night at Chick-fil-A, Tuesdays 5-8pm. Two area locations: 4585 N Oracle Rd and 3605 E Broadway Blvd. Free crafts, activities and a visit from the cow mascot. Also FREE 4-piece chicken nugget Kids Meal with purchase of adult meal or entrée salad.

Storytimes:
Bookmans on Ina and Thornydale Rd, 10-11am every Friday. Stories and craft.

Barnes & Noble at the Foothills Mall, 10am Wednesdays and 11 am Saturdays storytime and craft

Local libraries (see library.pima.gov), family, toddler and preschool storytimes. Nanini- Preschool Th and F at 10:30am, Family T 6:30pm and Sa 10:30am; Wheeler Taft Abbott- Preschool Th 10:30am, Family Sa 10:30am; Oro Valley- Preschool Tu 11:30am, Family W 10am.

Tohono Chul Park ‘Stories in the Garden for Children’ every Tuesday, 10-11am. Visit the amazing grounds and museum afterward. Admission is: $7 for adults (13+), $3 for students with valid ID and
$2 for children (5-12), children under 5 are free.
Reading with a Storybook Character First Saturday each month, 10:30 a.m., free. An hour of storytelling and activities with a storybook character is featured on the first Saturday of each month. UA BookStore at Student Union Memorial Center, 1209 E. University Blvd, Tucson, 621-2426
Mrs. Tiggy Winkle’s Toys (4811 E Grant Rd, Ste 151, 326-0188) storytime every Tues 11am and Thur 1pm.

Zoowinkles at Mrs. Tiggy Winkle’s Toys 4811 E Grant Rd, Ste 151, 326-0188. Presented one Saturday a month at 2 pm, free (see calendar on website http://www.tiggytoysonline.com/calendar). “Live animals from Reid Park Zoo will be there along with their knowledgeable keepers. Fun activities in an imaginative toy store setting.” They offer KidzArt summer camps, $95/week.

Musical Magic for Kids presented by So. Az. Arts Council Assoc. (formerly GOVAC). Free performances at 10:30am at Music and Dance Academy (SE corner of Oracle and Magee next to Trader Joe’s). Dates: 10/10, 11/21, 1/9, 2/13, 4/3. See their website for a list of events http://www.saaca.org/events-magicforkids.html.

YMCA family swim, M-F 6-8pm, $1/family, open year round. NW YMCA 7770 N. Shannon.

Pump It Up- Family Night, Wednesdays 5:30-7:30pm, $8.95/child and $2.95/adult admission includes two slices of pizza and beverage each. Open mornings M, W,
Th 9:30-11am, $6/child, $5 sibling, parents free; socks required to jump.
Starizona, 5757 N. Oracle Rd., Suite 103 • Tucson, Arizona 85704 • Call Us: (520) 292-5010. Free Viewing Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat nights (after dark)!
International Wildlife Museum, 1st Wednesday, 9:30-10am storytime and craft. $5 admission for child, parents free. Stay and tour museum, watch an animal movie in the theater or get some food at the snack bar. Summer camps also available.

Tucson Children’s Museum- Let your child explore and learn about health, electricity, dinosaurs, under the sea, space, instruments, building and so much more! There are daily activities and various special events plus 1 free day per month. See website for details tucsonchildrensmuseum.org. Located at 200 S. 6th Ave. Open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays except for “Monsoon Mondays” June-August; $1/person Monday nights, 5-8pm.

Providence Institute, ‘Yoga for Kids’ every Saturday, 2-3pm, $5/child, ages 4-10; parents welcome to stay too. 3400 E Speedway, Suite 114; 323-0203.

Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N Alvernon Way (at Grant), 326-9686. Open 8:30am-4:30pm daily; cost $7/adult, $3 ages 4-12, under 3 free. Costs vary by season so may have changed. See website for prices at www.tucsonbotanical.org.

Tohono Chul Park- The Park grounds are beautiful- voted top 10 Botanical Gardens in the world (Travel and Leisure magazine) and rated Best Park/Garden in Tucson for 2009. Open daily 8am-5pm. Admission $7/adults, $2 ages 5-12.
The 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. Reptile Ramble Fridays Apr-Oct at 10am, $5- hands-on reptile encounter. See website for more details http://www.tohonochulpark.org.
Tucson Mall, ‘Art with Nina’, every 2nd Saturday of each month, 11:30-1:30 next to Kid’s Play Area, free.
Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Rd., near the Grant Rd. intersection. Phone 296-5442, www.traildusttown.com
Enjoy Dragoon Street Wild, Wild West Stunt Shows (free but tips to actors appreciated), Sun- Thur: 7:00 & 8:00 pm Fri & Sat: 7:00, 8:00 & 9:00pm . You’ll also find the vintage Allen Herschell Fiesta del Presidio Carousel—the oldest operational carousel in the city ($1/ride, open daily 5-8pm). You’ll be able to ride the Trail Dust Town Railroad, a replica of the 1863 C. P. Huntington narrow-gauge train ($1/ride, open daily 5-8pm), visit the Museum of the Horse Soldier, pan for gold at Gabby’s Gulch ($1/person), check out the Rifle Shooting Gallery and grab a cowboy dinner at the various restaurants.

Old Pueblo Trolley Call 792-1802 or visit www.oldpueblotrolley.org for a route map and schedule. Take a step back in time with a trolley ride between University Blvd.’s Main Gate Square and the eclectic shopping district along Fourth Avenue—for just $1 a ride Fri. and Sat. and 25 cents on Sun. This is very near UA campus so maybe combine it with a visit to the Flandrau Center on UA campus or while exploring 4th Avenue.

Pima Air and Space Museum, 6000 E Valencia Rd, (520) 618-4800. Open daily 10am-5pm. Jun-Oct low season rates $11.50/adults, $8 ages 7-12.

Flandrau Science Center Mineral Museum (U of A campus) has re-opened Fri and Sat 9-5 for $4 admission ages 5 and up. Also, the free Observatory continues to be open every Wed-Sat, 7-10pm.

Funtasticks, last Friday of each month is ‘Fellowship Night’. $10/person gets you in from 4pm-midnight to ride all rides and mini golf.

Kitt Peak National Observatory has daily hour-long tours at 10am, 11:30am and 1:30pm. Cost is $4/adult, $2.50/kids ages 6-12. Located 56 miles SW of Tucson on Route 86- makes a great day trip. Call 318-8732 or www.noao.edu for more info.

Thursday's Free Beginner’s Guitar Class (6-12 yrs old), 17th Street Market 810 E. 17th St, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Age 12 and older class is 5:15 to 6:15. Group lessons...basic techniques....Contact 624-8821 ext.147 for additional info...........Your Guitar or ours!!
Children's Drumming Circle 17th Street Market 810 E. 17th St., Tucson, 624-8821 Ext. 145, Bonnie Brooks. Every Friday, 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. 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. Free. Age Restrictions 6-12 years old.
Michaels, “The Knack” kids craft time, $5/child (ages 5-12), supplies included. Every Saturday 10-12am, 3749 West Ina Road. See website for events calendar: http://www.michaels.com/art/online/events?storeid=9530

Lowe’s ‘Build and Grow Clinics’ for Kids (recommended 1st-5th grades). Marana location (off Ina Rd), 572-7300, every 2nd and 4th Saturdays from 10-11am. Make fun crafts and projects; free or small fee. Please register beforehand online at lowes.com, under Services go to Build and Grow Clinics or call to sign-up.

Rocks and Ropes, “Kids Climb” lets kids (under 12 only) climb without the adults getting in their way. 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.

SASI (Sonoran Arthropod Studies Institute)
4th Sat of each month (except Dec) is a FREE admission day open to the public from 9am-3pm. Gates Pass Rd, ¼ mi E of Kinney Rd (a few miles from the Desert Museum).
In the mornings they have a nature walk then lectures and classes. After lunch are kids’ activities- live creature encounter, craft, etc. They have a butterfly garden and live demos.

Antique couch

We are looking for an antique or victorian looking couch. If anyone knows of one to buy really cheaply or willing to let us borrow for a day please let me know. If you have a picture and can email it to me that would be great too - nicole@desertbrilliance.com thanks!

New Dermatologist

Does anyone have or know of a great dermatologist that they would recomend? you can reply here or email me @ nicole@desertbrilliance.com Thanks so much!

Free photo book

Your little pirate or princess looks so cute dressed up for Halloween. It’s a treat you’ll want to share with everyone.
Capture every spooktacular memory with a free ready–made photo book from Shutterfly. Just add your pictures and we’ll create a stunning photo book for you in minutes.

Promo code:UR48-DD9B-M8DB-BF5DDVOffer ends November 30, 2009.

* Additional charges such as taxes, shipping and handling may apply. Offer is good for one 7x9 photo book only. Limit one per household.

Family Doctor

Hey we are in need of a new family doctor. Any suggestions?

Baby Einstein Refund

If any of you are like me and bought the Baby Einstein DVDs and never watched them, this is for you. Apparently they don't make your children geniuses and so Disney is offering a refund (or exchange). You can only return 4 dvds per household, but you get a refund of $15.99 for each one. Here is the link to the refund info and the form you have to send in with your dvds.

Gladden Farms 10K & Half Marathon

Gladden Farms Family 5K has a great way for you to run off your Thanksgiving Turkey!!!

Gladden Farms Family 5K is having it's first 10K and Half Marathon on November 28th. There are local sponsors that will be helping to keep this FREE!! All finishers will receive a T-Shirt.

We will start and end at Gladden Farms Park at the corner of Lon Adams and Tangerine Farms Road. Both the 10K and Half Marathon will start at 8 am, and will be run on the bike paths and sidewalks in Gladden Farms.

If you are interested in participating please print off this form and turn it in to Jen Lynn by Friday October 30th.

Fun Fridays

You're invited to . . .

Buckelew Farms

Pumpkin Patch

17000 Ajo Way Tucson, 85735

Friday, October 30th, at 10am

Cost is $6 per person (kids in diapers are FREE)

includes a hayride and a pumpkin

Bring a lunch to eat there!

Please email Jeni at jenicone@yahoo.com
if you would like to come

so that we can give them an accurate count.

Halloween Craft for the Kids

On a lighter more UNserious note. We are going to do these today...Simple, and cute.

We do Simple around here.

Find instructions HERE

Moral Dilemma

Safeway approached me via email indicating They have just lowered prices, are doing some marketing promotion giveaways yada yada... They said they would give me a $50 gift certificate and 3 giveaway gift certificates to readers if I blogged about my shopping experience, and basically -not officially- advertise for them. (on the Marana Mom's site) -My problem is with the advertising part...obviously not the free $.

My first instinct was to send them my mailing address with an excited YES I'll do it.

But wait.

What is the purpose of this blog?

Personally when I started this blog it was to help us moms, grandmothers, caretakers etc. get answers to questions, advice, share a great find or free deal, post good ideas, inform of upcoming events...etc.


I realize this give away benefits you and obviously me, but I personally don't want this blog updated with marketing --STUFF-- for lack of better words.

I feel like your time is OBVIOUSLY precious... and if you want ideas on couponing, store sales ETC... You would go to a site like Stephanie's Savvysavingstucson.blogspot.com -----> on side of blog.

I don't have time for FLUFF...and I am assuming neither do you.
I am not saying couponing is FLUFF, when I sit down to the computer and want to look at ad's, ad match options, and coupon applications, I want to go to ONE SITE and move on.

Same with Marana Mom's I want to go here for the purpose it was intended.

I should ask you, what do you think...?

Digital Scrapbooking

I don't know if anyone is interested but...

This week there are two Digital Scrapbook Blogs that have joined together to make an extra large Freebie Kit called... I Heart Primary. They both have papers, embellishments, alphabets, quick pages and 'extras'.

http://thelatestscooptoo.blogspot.com/
http://sahmscrapper.blogspot.com/

Also a couple weeks ago there was a double kit for Young Women's with all 8 Values. It is suppose to be 'Forever' Free, instead of being put into their store after a week.

http://thelatestscooptoo.blogspot.com/
http://growingpains-scrapped.blogspot.com/

They may not be the most recent post at either blog, but you can scroll back through to get all the 'parts'. Usually they release the Papers on Monday, Embellishments on Tuesday, Alphabets on Wednesday, Quick Pages on Thursday, and Extras on Friday.

I don't know if the Primary one will stay 'Forever Free', so you might want to check that out this week.

~Tracy

Free Downloadable Books from Deseret

I just wanted to let you all know about this free-be:

Deseret Book has made 8 of their books available for FREE DOWNLOAD at http://deseretbook.com/free. Several of the of the books are ones I thought you might be interested in. The books are:

1. Please Pass the Scripture (by me).
2. What I Wish I Would Have Known When I Was Single (by John Bytheway).
3. Women at the Well (by Richard and Jeni Holzapfel).
4. Digging Deeper (by Robert Eaton).
5. 10 Secrets Wise Parents Know (by Brent Top and Bruce Chadwick).
6. Growing Up: Gospel Answers About Maturation and Sex (by Brad Wilcox).
7. Saving Kristen (by Jack Weyland). (fiction)
8. The Hidden Path (by C.B. Andersen). (fiction)

It might be good to download them now for future reference as they will only be available online for free for a short time. A lot of people aren’t aware that books like these even exist, much less that they are available for free.

Some of the books help you get more out of the scriptures. Others are good for parenting. Some are just plain fun. Go check out http://deseretbook.com/free. I hope you like the books!

Buckelew Farms Coupon

There is a coupon in this week's Explorer newspaper (mine was in the driveway this morning) for Buckelew Farms. It is for $1 off and is on page 42 (near the back).

FREE Happy Baby Organic Meal

Print this coupon to get a free Happy Baby Organic Meal. Coupon expires 11/10/09. Find a store that carries this brand HERE.

Thanks, For The Mommas!

Enfamil

I randomly received a box with a sample can of Enfamil and coupons in the mail today. I have no idea how they got my address or why they thought I wanted/needed some...

If you could use some baby formula let me know and it's yours!

(joseph.and.tiffany@gmail.com)

Elmo Cake

Before I go out and buy a new one, does anyone have an Elmo cake pan or the 3-d teddy bear pan that I could borrow?

Nursing Cover Deal

If you're a nursing mom or you need a gift for a nursing mom, you should check out this deal! I know we have a lot of moms in Marana who might be able to use this deal!! Go to Udder Covers and you'll get a FREE nursing cover! Use promo code "onefree" and it brings the price from $32 to $0! Just pay shipping on it. There are 6 different ones you can choose from. This might go fast!

October fun all by Gladden Farms

I was a little unorganized, and decided to figure out my calendar for the rest of the month. I thought maybe someone else out there might want the info as well.

This Saturday Oct 17th, if you live in Gladden Farms, the Gladden Farms HOA is putting on the Country Fair:
Our GFCA lifestyle website says:
Come down and join us for our expanded Country Fair!
This year we will have on site grilling, a Sonoran Hot Dog cart, increased concessions, activities including a watermelon eating contest, a three-legged race, a water balloon toss and an egg in spoon race, a petting zoo, a pony ride ring and some actual carnival rides as well!

This year all concessions will be on a ticket per serving basis and all rides (including carnival rides) will be accessed with an unlimited use wristband. Wristbands are available for $5 a piece and tickets are $1 or 6 for $5 and are available o the day of the event at the ticket booths.

(and because I know your kids want to wear costumes all day long on Saturday the 31st!):

On the 31st at 11am they will have pumpkin painting and bags for collecting candies at different booths w/ little games and a maybe a bounce house, etc... bring a lawn chair and some candy to hand out for the trick or treat parade I think they are doing. I am not sure on all of those details, but it is by the HOA house, not at the park.

(Another little plug for GF community: The 22nd at 7pm at Estes Elementary is the Annual Meeting for GF homeowners. I saw that 6-7 was a social mixer w/ appetizers, and there will be a door prize raffle.)

Two days later on the 24th is the Fall Harvest Festival at Heritage Park. This is for ANYONE! not just Gladden Farms Residents!! From 9am - 2pm. (I thought the town website would have more on this, I will link you to it later today if the Town returns my call or posts about it themselves)
It is the 234th annversary of Jaun Bautista de Anza's journey through Marana. (sounded kind of dry to me...but it looks like they have a fun day planned!!)
There is a pie and cookie contest (get out your family's secret recipe!) and fresh food for sale from the Farmer's Market. They will also have booths for kids, entertainment, the train and a peddle tractor too!
Does this all make sense? I hope it helps someone fill out their calendar like it helped me!

Go Marathoners Go!

Just wanted to say "Good Luck" to all those Marana Moms (and Dads) running in the St. George Marathon this weekend! Be Strong, Stay Tough, Take it One Mile at a Time! We're all cheering for you here at home!

Fun Fridays

We're a group of moms from the Continental Ranch area that have preschool-aged children.
We try to go out every Friday to do something fun, so I'll post the activities here
in case anyone is interested in coming:

You're invited to . . .

Splash Pad


a free water park for kids!

Brandi Fenton Memorial Park
3482 East River Road

Friday, October 2nd, 10:00am

• We've reserved Ramada D (right by the park ) so that we can have some shade.
• Don't forget your suit, towel, and sunscreen.
• It's a little far, but will be worth it.
• Feel free to invite your friends/family/neighbors
• Hope to see you there!
• For more info contact Jeni at jenicone@yahoo.com
  

Park playgroups starting again

Now that the weather is cooling off we're going to start up the playgroups at the park again. This year there are two different locations/days to choose from!

Every Tuesday at 10am at Red Rock Park (starting Tues. October 6th)

and

Every Friday at 10am at Gladden Farms Park (starting Fri. Oct 2nd)


Hope to see you there!

9/26 FREE Admission for 2 to participating Museums

Smithsonian affiliated museums are offering a free admission this Saturday at over 1,000 museums around the country! You just need to register for your 2 free tickets!

Don't forget to get your two free admissions for Museum Day, Saturday, September 26th. Click here to register for your tickets.

Museums in Tucson available to choose from:

Arizona Historical Society Arizona History Museum

Arizona State Museum

International Wildlife Museum

Jewish History Museum

The Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures

Lowe's: Free Kids' Clinics

October is Safety Month, and Lowe's is hosting a Safety Saturday children's event this Saturday, September 26, 2009. Kids can build this wooden firetruck for free from 10-11 am. Go here to register.

Can't make it this Saturday? Your child will love building this cool Ball Toss game for FREE! Bring them in Saturday, October 10th to the class from 10-11 a.m. Go here to register.

Halloween Costume Exchange

I was going through my Halloween costume bin and had an idea. Having to buy Halloween costumes every year can get super expensive and frustrating. We have built up a little collection since we have 6 kids and they never want to wear the same one again or wear the one their brother or sister wore the year before. I thought I would post some of the ones that any of you are welcome to borrow for your kids. If you have anything you too would like to share with others, you could post them here too. Wouldn't it be cool if we could all save a few dollars this year by recycling our old costumes? I know for us, buying costumes for a holiday that I don't even care for is NOT on my priority list!

So, here's what I have. Remember, these are USED and therefore are not in PERFECT condition. In fact, they probably all need to be washed and some ironed. If nobody is interested in any of these, I will not be offended:).

If you see something you would like to borrow, just leave a comment here so other people know what is taken, then send me an email to: egmatson@gmail.com.

Thanks!

1. Bumblebee costume (0-3 mon.). 2. Witch costume (6-8). 3. Pumpkin costume (18 mon.-2T).

4. Cinderella costume which is a little haggared, but still usuable (size 7-10). 5. Cat costume (8, but fits more like a 4-7 year-old). 6. Bee jacket. You'll need black pants to go with it (3-4).

7. Indiana Jones costume (4-6). 8. Dorothy (Large-about 8-10) shoes are size 1.5. 9. Raggety Anne (3-4).

Gluten-Free Cooking

Lately I have been getting lots of questions about Gluten-Free cooking.

I have a good friend, Susan Bell, whose whole family except for Dad has Celiacs. They have lived on a Gluten Free diet for years. She is an amazing cook and makes the best gluten free rice bread! She just recently released her cookbook, so I now have her amazing bread recipe! :-)

Sorry for the late notice , but Chef Wendy Gauthier is teaching a class tonight. She will demonstrate how to work with and prepare gluten-free products. One of the nice things about the cooking demos at Whole Foods is that there are . . . samples! Learn and eat. Eat and learn!

RSVP to sonja.brown@wholefoods.com

• Where: Whole Foods Market, 3360 E. Speedway Blvd. Tucson 85716 (520) 795-9844.
• When: Wednesday, September 23, 2009. 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
• How much: FREE.

Thanks, Tucson on the Cheap, for this information!

FREE GeoTrax DVD

Get a free GeoTrax DVD "Steamer & Samuel Save the Day" with 4 episodes from Mattel. This is absolutely free, there are no shipping or other charges. Thanks, Mattel!

TUCSON ATTRACTIONS

Does anyone have any fun suggestions on where I could take some out of town guests for fun? We've been to Old Tucson and The Desert Sonoran Museum, but are interested in some other family friendly attractions. Any suggestions?

Crib Mattress

Does anybody need a crib mattress? I have a crib mattress that is not being used and would like to just get rid of it. It is in excellent condition. If you want it, you can call me 682-3003 or just leave a comment on this post.

-Katie

9/24 Cold Stone Creamery Make-A-Wish Ice Cream Social

On Thursday, September 24th, 2009 5 - 8p.m., Cold Stone Creamery is giving a FREE 3 oz. Make-A-Wish® Creation™ with a Donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation!

Donate and receive a 3 oz. sample of Jack’s Creation served out of a ready-to-love pan in a Like It™ Cup.

While supplies last. No substitutions. Limit one per customer.

Do your kids love the Magic School Bus?

You can get this FREE book from the US EPA by calling 1-800-490-9198 and requesting item number EPA420-K-07-001. They will enter in your mailing address. The operator told me that we would receive the book in 7-10 days!

There is a limit of one per household.

10/03 FREE Event at Tucson Children's Museum

Click here for more information!

Carnival to Benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Sept 19

I found out this morning that the Chili's on Cortaro (located in the Arizona Pavilions shopping center) will be holding a Children's Carnival to benefit St. Jude's Hospital this Saturday, September 19. There will be local bands, stage shows, games, snacks, and jumping castles. The events will take place from 10am-5pm, and all proceeds will go towards St. Jude's.

Apparently, Chili's will also be hosting Happy Hour all day, in honor of the event.

Parking Rule Update

I was talking to HOA this morning. I asked about the parking.

The Police are enforcing the Town of Marana Rules. Which means... you must park on the street, not on the sidewalk. Don't park in front of driveways, or mail boxes, or facing the wrong way. If you are parked wrong, it is a $85 ticket. They can enforce this at all hours. Make sure your car is completely on the road!!

The HOA is enforcing No Parking on the Street. Meaning you park in driveways. As a heads up, call and let them know if you are having people over, or going over to someones home. As far as dropping kids off or whatever, that should be obvious that it is temporary. But if your staying to visit, you're suppose to let them know so you don't get a letter and fine. They are enforcing this during Business Hours. They are monitoring a different neighborhood each day, so it will take a week to make it through each one.

Apparently they are getting lots of complaints about people parking in the street, so now they are having to be very forceful in enforcing the rules. Can't say that I like this, but, I guess I live with it. So, just in case anyone else wanted to know what I learned. ~Tracy

Upcoming Events for Kids!

Are you needing something to do? -Better yet, do your kids need something to do? Here are some ideas for you. If you have done any of these previously and would like to share comments on likes, dislikes, or what to be prepared for... please share!

September

September 19-20 (Sat 9-6 and Sun 10-4) Tucson Reptile & Amphibian Show & Sale at the Tucson Expo Center (3750 E Irvington). Cost $7/adults, $3/kids 6-12 and free under 6. tucsonreptileshow.com, 405-7020.

September 23-Oct 4 Ramona Quimby play put on by Pima Community College. Fri-Sat 7pm, Sat-Sun 2pm at Proscenium Theatre. Tickets $6. School matinees available 9/23-25, 30,10/1-2 at 10am for $5. Call 206-6986 for more info.

Daily Through Sept 30, DIG: Prehistoric Gardens at Tucson Botanical Gardens (2150 N Alvernon Way), from 8:30am-4:30pm. Cost $7/adult, $3/children. Explore geology, paleontology and botany to learn about our historic past.

Every Thurs through October, La Placita Outdoor Cinema, free admission ($3/person admission suggested), at 7:30pm. Located at 110 S. Church Avenue, on the southwest corner of Broadway and Church in downtown Tucson. Ample parking is available in the La Placita parking garage, located at Stone just south of Broadway. Most films are old classics and are NR (not rated) starring old film actors. Free all-you-can-eat popcorn. See cinemalaplacita.com for details and current schedule.

October

October 30-Nov 1 Cinderella play presented by CYT (Christian Youth Theater) at Crowder Hall, U of A campus. Dec 11-13 will be A Christmas Carol at the same location. Call 751-7510 or cyttucson.org for tickets. Matinee shows also available (we went to 2 of these plays this past year) on Weds at 9:30am or 12 noon for $5/seat. Reservations required.

October 10, Musical Magic for Kids presented by So. Az. Arts Council Assoc. (formerly GOVAC). Nearly every month through April (see Ongoing section), free, 10:30am at Music and Dance Academy (SE corner of Oracle and Magee next to Trader Joe’s). See their website for a list of events http://www.saaca.org/events-magicforkids.html.

October 15-18, Disney on Ice at Tucson Arena. Tickets go on sale 9/13. Tickets range from $15-45 and be purchased online at disneyonice.com.

October 23-25, Howl-O-Ween at Reid Park Zoo. Fri-sat 6-8pm and Sun 5-7pm. Cost $5/person or $4/member.

Ongoing
Kids Night at Chick-fil-A. Two area locations at 4585 N Oracle Rd and 3605 E Broadway Blvd. on Tuesdays 5-8pm. They offer free crafts and activities and a visit from the cow mascot. Also offer FREE 4-piece chicken nugget Kids Meal with purchase of adult meal or entrée salad.

Storytimes:
Bookmans on Ina and Thornydale Rd, 10-11am every Friday. Stories and craft.

Barnes & Noble at the Foothills Mall, 10am Wednesdays and 11 am Saturdays storytime and craft

Local libraries (see library.pima.gov), family, toddler and preschool storytimes.

Tohono Chul Park ‘Stories in the Garden for Children’ every Tuesday, 10-11am. Visit the amazing grounds and museum afterward. Admission is: $7 for adults (13+), $3 for students with valid ID and
$2 for children (5-12), children under 5 are free.
Reading with a Storybook Character First Saturday each month, 10:30 a.m., free. An hour of storytelling and activities with a storybook character is featured on the first Saturday of each month. UA BookStore at Student Union Memorial Center, 1209 E. University Blvd, Tucson, 621-2426

Mrs. Tiggy Winkle’s Toys (4811 E Grant Rd, Ste 151, 326-0188) storytime every Tues 11am and Thur 1pm.

Zoowinkles at Mrs. Tiggy Winkle’s Toys 4811 E Grant Rd, Ste 151, 326-0188. Presented one Saturday a month at 2 pm, free (see calendar on website http://www.tiggytoysonline.com/calendar). “Live animals from Reid Park Zoo will be there along with their knowledgeable keepers. Fun activities in an imaginative toy store setting.” They offer KidzArt summer camps, $95/week.

Musical Magic for Kids presented by So. Az. Arts Council Assoc. (formerly GOVAC). Free performances at 10:30am at Music and Dance Academy (SE corner of Oracle and Magee next to Trader Joe’s). Dates: 10/10, 11/21, 1/9, 2/13, 4/3. See their website for a list of events http://www.saaca.org/events-magicforkids.html.


YMCA family swim, M-Th 6-8pm, $1/family. NW YMCA on Shannon and Magee.

Flandrau Science Center Mineral Museum open Fri and Sat 9-5 for $4 admission ages 5 and up. Also, the free Observatory is still open every Wed-Sat, 7-10pm.

Kitt Peak National Observatory has daily hour-long tours at 10am, 11:30am and 1:30pm. Cost is $4/adult, $2.50/kids ages 6-12. Located 56 miles SW of Tucson on Route 86- makes a great day trip. Call 318-8732 or www.noao.edu for more info.

Funtasticks, last Friday of each month is ‘Fellowship Night’. $10/person gets you in from 4pm-midnight to ride all rides and mini golf.

Providence Institute, ‘Yoga for Kids’ every Saturday, 2-3pm, $5/child, ages 4-10; parents welcome to stay too. 3400 E Speedway, Suite 114; 323-0203.

Tucson Children’s Museum- Let your child explore and learn about health, electricity, dinosaurs, under the sea, space, instruments, building and so much more! There are daily activities and various special events plus 1 free day per month. See website for details tucsonchildrensmuseum.org. Located at 200 S. 6th Ave. Open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays except for “Monsoon Mondays” June-August; $1/person Monday nights, 5-8pm.

Pima Air and Space Museum, 6000 E Valencia Rd, (520) 618-4800. Open daily 10am-5pm. Jun-Oct low season rates $11.50/adults, $8 ages 7-12.

Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N Alvernon Way (at Grant), 326-9686. Open 8:30am-4:30pm daily; cost $7/adult, $3 ages 4-12, under 3 free. Costs vary by season so may have changed. See website for prices at www.tucsonbotanical.org.

Tohono Chul Park- The Park grounds are beautiful- voted top 10 Botanical Gardens in the world (Travel and Leisure magazine) and rated Best Park/Garden in Tucson for 2009. Open daily 8am-5pm. Admission $7/adults, $2 ages 5-12.
The 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. Reptile Ramble Fridays Apr-Oct at 10am, $5- hands-on reptile encounter. See website for more details http://www.tohonochulpark.org.

Pump It Up- Family Night, Wednesdays 5:30-7:30pm, $8.95/child and $2.95/adult admission includes two slices of pizza and beverage each. Open mornings M,W,Th 9:30-11am, $6/child, $5 sibling, parents free; socks required to jump.
Starizona, 5757 N. Oracle Rd., Suite 103 • Tucson, Arizona 85704 • Call Us: (520) 292-5010. Free Viewing Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat nights (after dark)!
International Wildlife Museum, 1st Wednesday, 9:30-10am storytime and craft. $5 admission for child, parents free. Stay and tour museum, watch an animal movie in the theater or get some food at the snack bar. Various summer camps also available.
Tucson Mall, ‘Art with Nina’, every 2nd Saturday of each month, 11:30-1:30 next to Kid’s Play Area, free.
Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Rd., near the Grant Rd. intersection. Phone 296-5442, www.traildusttown.com
Enjoy Dragoon Street Wild, Wild West Stunt Shows (free but tips to actors appreciated), Sun- Thur: 7:00 & 8:00 pm Fri & Sat: 7:00, 8:00 & 9:00pm . You’ll also find the vintage Allen Herschell Fiesta del Presidio Carousel—the oldest operational carousel in the city ($1/ride, open daily 5-8pm). You’ll be able to ride the Trail Dust Town Railroad, a replica of the 1863 C. P. Huntington narrow-gauge train ($1/ride, open daily 5-8pm), visit the Museum of the Horse Soldier, pan for gold at Gabby’s Gulch ($1/person), check out the Rifle Shooting Gallery and grab a cowboy dinner at the various restaurants.

Old Pueblo Trolley Call 792-1802 or visit www.oldpueblotrolley.org for a route map and schedule. Take a step back in time with a trolley ride between University Blvd.’s Main Gate Square and the eclectic shopping district along Fourth Avenue—for just $1 a ride Fri. and Sat. and 25 cents on Sun. This is very near UA campus so maybe combine it with a visit to the Flandrau Center on UA campus or while exploring 4th Avenue.

Michaels 3749 West Ina Road, “The Knack” kids craft time, $5/child (ages 5-12), supplies included. Every Saturday 10-12am. See website for events calendar: http://www.michaels.com/art/online/events?storeid=9530

Lowe’s ‘Build and Grow Clinics’ for Kids (recommended 1st-5th grades). Marana location (off Ina Rd), 572-7300, every 2nd and 4th Saturdays from 10-11am. Make fun crafts and projects; free or small fee. Please register beforehand online at lowes.com, under Services go to Build and Grow Clinics or call to sign-up.

Rocks and Ropes, “Kids Climb” lets kids (under 12 only) climb without the adults getting in their way. 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.

SASI (Sonoran Arthropod Studies Institute)
4th Sat of each month (except Dec) is a FREE admission day open to the public from 9am-3pm. Gates Pass Rd, ¼ mi E of Kinney Rd (a few miles from the Desert Museum).
In the mornings they have a nature walk then lectures and classes. After lunch are kids activities- live creature encounter, craft, activities. They have a butterfly garden and live demos.
Children's Drumming Circle 17th Street Market 810 E. 17th St., Tucson, 624-8821 Ext. 145, Bonnie Brooks. Every Friday, 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. 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. Free. Age Restrictions 6-12 years old.

Cleaning

Perhaps I wasn't too clear on my post for help on finding a cleaning company. My Dad was recently diagnosed with cancer and my mom does not have the energy or time to take care of both. My sisters assigned me the task of asking around for a good company. So if anyone has any suggestions, thank you.

Backpack baby carrier

Does anyone have a Backpack Baby Carrier that I can borrow? Rylan & I want to go on some day trips and will have to take the baby along.

Parking FYI

Today when I was dropping the kids off at Joy School, there was a motorcycle cop circling around a van parked on the street. He was asking me about the van and how long it had been parked there or if it was parked there frequently. He told me that they have been getting a lot of parking complaints and he was out today going through the neighborhood giving parking tickets. He ended up giving the van a ticket. I saw him later giving another car a ticket. While I think the the "no parking on the street" rule here is pretty stupid, I'm going to be more careful now because I don't want to get a ticket. He was looking for signs that the car wasn't just there for a few minutes (like sun visors in the windshield). Just thought you all might want to know that they are taking this rule seriously and it could end up costing you or your friends more than a HOA fine.

House Cleaning

Does anyone have a reference for a reputable house cleaning service? Renee
I also have an older double stroller if anyone is in need of one.

Kids art class this Friday

Just a reminder that this Friday at 10am we are having an art class at the Church for kids ages 3-5. Some teachers from KidzArt are coming out to teach the class and the cost is $6.50. If you didn't get a chance to sign up yet it's not too late--just let me (Tiffany) or Lynette know that you are planning on coming so we can let the teachers know how many kids to prepare for.

We'll have a room with toys for the younger siblings. It should be lots of fun!

For Labor Day we went up to the Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch, the one by Picacho Peak that we all pass on the way to Phoenix. I have lived here five years and never been there or looked twice as we pass. However, I came across their website last night and saw all the fun things to do there. So this morning for Labor Day we went up and had a blast. I highly recommend that you check out their website www.roostercogburn.com . It was a holiday today so we did get to do the monster truck tour. It costs a few bucks, but was so well worth it. I would recommend that you go at a time when you can do the monster truck tour.

Doctor

Does anyone know of a good family doctor / primary care physician?

EBATES Deal

I love EBATES! Whenever I shop online, I can log onto ebates.com and go to any major retailers website and shop online as I normally would. You still get all the great deals the company offers. The bonus is that you get a rebate for your purchase!

Right now, you can get 5% back at JcPenneys. They are having a huge clearance sale/Labor Day Sale. You can get free shipping on any order over $49 using the code: WEWORK4U
Or you can use the code: SEPSURV9 for 15% off

It's free to sign up for ebates! Plus they give you a $5 signing bonus