Friday, December 21, 2012

Christmas Tradition: The Donkey in the Living Room

The Donkey In the Living Room: A Tradition That Celebrates the Real Meaning of ChristmasWe have a new Christmas tradition we've implemented this year, and I want to share it in case you're looking for something to do with your little people to try to keep the focus on Christ at Christmas.  My sister-in-law, Emily, gave us this book last month, and it has gone over really well this Christmas season.  The book is called The Donkey in the Living Room, and it starts 9 days before Christmas and walks you through to the birth of Christ through the eyes of different characters who were involved (donkey, camel, Mary, sheep, Joseph, angel, etc.).  The book explains what you do, but in a nutshell you start 9 days before Christmas, and each day you wrap up one of the characters from a nativity scene (as directed by the book) and have you kiddos open the wrapped character, then you read the telling of the story from that character's perspective.  These are short, rhyming synopses of what was happening, and are perfect for my 3 & 5 year olds who can't sit toooooo long.  :)

I'm not sure if this book is for sale anywhere but Amazon, but I do want to add the disclaimer that the nativity items you need to wrap do NOT come with the book - you'll have to come up with those on your own.  My mother-in-law has given us a few nativity sets over the years, so we were able to piece together most of the characters, but if you don't have a nativity scene, you might need to go to Hobby Lobby to piece together the characters you'll need (we still need to get a camel!).  It might be too late to start this tradition this Christmas, but it is something to think of for next year (maybe even get a nativity set on clearance after Christmas and put it away for next year!). 


Friday, December 14, 2012

Starbucks Buy-One-Get-One Holiday Drinks (thru Dec 16)

Starbucks is doing a buy-one-get-one free on holiday drinks thru this Sunday, Dec. 16th during "happy hour" between 2-5pm.  I've yet to get a "red cup" (as my husband calls Starbucks' holiday cups) this season, so this might be my chance.  :)

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

$100 Gift Cert for Eye Exam, Glasses or Contacts!

Preferred Eye Care in Marion (#664-9637) is giving back to the community by collecting food donations for St. Martin's Community Center.  Take in a bag of non-perishable food items to Preferred Eye Care and they will give you a $100 gift card you can use toward an eye exam, glasses, contacts, etc.!  This $100 can be used in conjunction with eye insurance, meaning that if you have eye insurance already, but you have a (e.g.) $10 co-pay, you can use that gift card to pay the co-pay.  Or, if you have a $130 for contacts or glasses and they end up costing $200, you can use the gift card to pay for the balance on your glasses you usually have to pay. WHAT A DEAL! 

Preferred Eye Care ran this promo last year, and I took advantage of it myself - it really was EASY, no "catches"!  I'm making my appointment today!

 www.preferred-eye.com/

711 North River Drive  Marion, IN 46952

(765) 664-9637

Monday, December 10, 2012

A Very Mery LOCAL Christmas - Tues, Dec 11

Have a Very Merry Local Christmas  PDF Print E-mail
Victory Acres wants you to have a very merry local Christmas this holiday season. You can do that by joining your hometown farmers from Victory Acres Farm to sip hot cider, shop a variety of locally made goods, and meet an area writer as well as local artists and crafters.  The event will be held on Tuesday, December 11, from 6pm to 9pm, at the Gray Barn, 168 S. Second Street, Upland.

“Many people appreciate giving and receiving gifts that have been crafted by folks from their own community.  Items like a locally blended tea or an autographed book not only make warm and thoughtful gifts, but they also reflect an investment in our community,” explains Jane Cramer, community liaison for Victory Acres.  “We hope our Have a Very Merry Local Christmas event makes it easier for people to find and share local goods.”

A few of the items that will be available include maple syrup, honey, coffee, baked goods, gourmet garlic, soaps, teas, candles, artwork, and eco-friendly crafts.  Local artists Bud Jamison and Karen Sonner will be displaying their paintings, and Marion-based author Ken Swan will be signing copies of his family-friendly book, Pigboy: The Legend of a Wildchild.  Victory Acres farm memberships are another unique gift opportunity that will be available at the event. Victory Acres Agricultural Coach, Leslie Gottschalk, will be on hand to answer questions about the 2013 growing season and assist guests who would like to sign up for fresh, certified naturally grown fruits and vegetables.

During the holiday rush, it is tempting to make gift choices based on what products are the cheapest and most efficiently purchased, but choosing to shop locally first is a gift that you can give to the whole community.  It directly benefits the neighbor whose goods you purchase, and it benefits the local economy when that neighbor then spends his income locally or is able to employ local workers.  A communIty that chooses to invest in small businesses also encourages local prosperity by promoting economic diversity, encouraging skilled trade and craft, rewarding innovation, and supporting business owners who are more likely to care for and invest in their community in return.  Locally-sourced gifts truly are the gifts that keep on giving!

Post from victoryacres.org

Friday, December 7, 2012

2 for $30 - CROCS sale thru Sat (Dec 8)



Kids - 2 for $30

2 for $30 Sale on Crocs Kids' Styles until 12/8 at Crocs.com!

**Discount applied in cart with either two qualifying kids' styles or two qualifying adult styles. Valid on select kids' and adults styles. Quantities limited. Valid online only. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Expires 12/8/12 at 11:59pm EST.



For me, it is never to early to start planning for summer.  :)  I've mentioned before my kids love/obsession with Crocs, so this is a deal I couldn't pass up!  I've been only impressed with Crocs.com as a company - recently a strap of one of my son's crocs broke, and I emailed the company.  They couldn't replace the shoe b/c the style wasn't one they offered any more, but they sent me a gift card to purchase another pair, and a code for 25% off AND free shipping.  Can't beat that!  I'm using my free shipping & gift card on this purchase!  

Free Gingerbread House - Lowe's Kids Clinic (Dec 8)

Lowes Build & Grow FREE kids clinic is this weekend - Saturday, Dec 8th at 10am.  This week you'll be building a gingerbread house with your kiddo.  I think in the midst of the business of the season, taking some time out for special time with my kiddos will be good, so we're going!  This event is free, but registration is encouraged.  Click HERE to register

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Give Back This Season - Give Blood!

Featured promotionWant to give back this season?  How about giving blood?
www.GiveBloodNow.com to find a place in your area. 

During the month of December, when you give blood, you will receive either a coupon for a free turkey OR a $10 gift card to Walmart or Meijer.  

As an added bonus, in December (Marion is Dec 18th from 10:30am - 7pm), when you donate blood, the South Bend Medical Foundation volunteers will wrap your Christmas presents while you donate!  Yep, you give blood, giving LIFE to someone who needs it, and you also get your Christmas gifts wrapped so you come home with them all done!  For more info, www.GiveBloodNow.com!


Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Holiday Market by Marion Open Air Market - Dec 1st & 8th

The Open Air Market group from Marion's downtown (which started up this past summer & went all summer & fall long on Saturday mornings)  is putting on a Holiday Market on Dec 1st & 8th from 9am - 4pm at THE FOUNDRY, which is a building across the street from the First United Methodist Church in downtown Marion (on the corner of Adams & 7th).

The Open Air Market is one of my new favorite things in Marion - a group of vendors who are all local & who make homemade & natural goods.  These are a create bunch who are very talented, and it is a lot of fun to see the creative, wonderful, and delicious things they make.  Don't miss it! 

Monday, November 26, 2012

Health Care Reform Law - Helpful Video Summary

Confused about the new health care reform law?  Take a few minutes to watch this helpful summary.


Sunday, November 25, 2012

ING Direct - Earn $125 for Opening a Checking Account or $10 for Opening a Kid's Savings Account! NO FEES!


https://images.ingdirect.com/home//sale/bf2012_logo_eo.pngING Direct is having a GREAT promo over this weekend that ends tonight (Sun night 11/25).  If you open an Orange Checking account with them & make 10 purchases over the next 45 days, you get $125 deposited into your account.  

 

I have an ING account (both savings & checking), and highly recommend them.  I use these as my savings account, and also my back-up checking, where I try to stash money away that isn't in my regular monthly "pay bills" checking account (for items I don't pay monthly, but need to stash money away so I have the money for them when I pay an annual or semi-annual premium).  I opened the Orange Checking when one of these promos was running, and I encourage you to do the same!  It really is as easy/straight forward as advertised!  

 

https://images.ingdirect.com/home//sale/bf2012_logo_ksa.pngThey also have a promo $10 for opening a kids account!  No fees for opening!  Do it today!  I just sent up an account for each of my kids - you can open with a minimum of $1, and they will add the $10 into your kiddos account.  Interest rate on the account is %.75.  I figure this will be a good way to start talking to my kids about saving money, and as we check on our account we can watch their accounts GROW with interest. There is no "catch" to this, so set up an account for your kiddos today! 

 

Electric Orange Checking - Free yourself from checking fees and earn $125.

How it works

  • Open Electric Orange November 23rd - 25th and make a total of 10 purchases (either signature or PIN-based) using your Electric Orange Card or CheckMateSM deposits (or any combination of the two) within 45 days.
  • Your $125 bonus will be automatically deposited into your account on day 50.
  • Bonus only available for new Electric Orange checking.
  • Keep in mind, your bonus may be reported to the IRS and your state.
APPLY NOW >

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Kiddo Tags - 1/2 off thru Plum District Sale



Have you heard of Kiddo Tags?  I ordered my first batch about a year ago for my boys, and am just about out, so I was excited to see this deal from Plum District.  Right now, you get $40 of credit toward Kiddo Tags for only $20, and when you use your $40 toward purchasing your Kiddo Tags, shipping is only $.99/order.  I've done a set of tags for each of my kids in the past, putting a soccer ball, my kid's name, and my phone number on one tag and a baseball, my other kid's name, and my phone number on the other.  I label everything with these - their coats, backpacks, sippy cups, water bottles, lunch boxes, etc.  you name it, and I've labeled it.  It is great for things that leave out house, and also for things I want to keep separate so my kids know whose is whose (they love that!).  These go through the dishwasher no problem - they are amazing.  They also have iron on labels for inside of clothes. 

To get this deal, sign up for a new Plum District (daily deals for moms/families)account by CLICKING HERE.


Friday, November 9, 2012

Locally Made Teas - Tasting Event Nov 10th

There is a tea-tasting event this weekend by a local tea maker who uses local organic ingredients.  If you haven't tried these teas, you are missing out.  I've become slightly addicted to them over the summer & fall.  Locally made loose-leaf teas - I've liked all the ones I've tried, but the Apple-Pie Spice is my favorite! 

Thursday, November 8, 2012

BRAVE - Nov 9th & 10th at the Globe Theatre

BraveThis weekend at on Indiana Wesleyan's campus in the Student Center at the Globe Theatre, BRAVE is playing.  Movie is $2/person, popcorn is $1/each, making this an affordable date for my 5 year old & me! We haven't seen this one yet, so might have to check it out. 

Friday - 7pm, 9pm
Sat - 2pm, 7pm, 9pm
Rated PG

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Dine for a good cause - Nov 7th at Applebee's in Marion

Wednesday, November 7th if you eat at Applebee's in Marion (11am - midnight) and present the Dine to Donate flyer (below) when you pay your server, Bridges to Health will get 15% of your bill as a donation to the clinic. 

Bridges to Health is Grant County's only free health and dental clinic, providing primary care, dental care, health education and medications for uninsured Grant County residents who make 200% or less than the poverty income guidelines.  A 501c3 non-profit, the clinic relies on donations and grants to keep it's doors open and to keep Grant County residents healthy. For more info, visit www.bridges2health.org

Need a flyer for Applebee's?  You can print one at www.bridges2health.org, email info@bridges2health.org, or stop by on your way to Applebee's and pick one up at the clinic (1251 W. Kem Road).

Thank you for helping keep uninsured Grant County residents healthy!  


Thursday, November 1, 2012

Daylight Savings Time Ends on Nov 4th, 2012 at 2am

Daylight Savings Time Ends in US/Canada on November 4, 2012

If you live in the USA or Canada, Daylight Savings Time 2012 ends on November 4, 2012. At 2 am, we "fall back" and gain an extra hour of sleep.

 

Fact or Fable? Daylight Saving Time Saves Energy

FactorFable
This could be a fact or a fable; depending on which study you read. One of the original goals of Daylight Saving Time (DST) was to save energy by reducing the need for lighting in the evening. Early research indicated that DST provided energy savings, but the results of more recent studies have been mixed; some even concluding that DST increases overall energy use.

A Brief History

The concept of DST was adopted by the railroad industry during the 19th century as a means for standardizing their schedules. During World War I, it was introduced nationwide as an energy-saving measure. It did not become a standardized practice until the Uniform Time Act of 1966.

Energy Use and Daylight Saving Time

How does changing the clock conserve energy? The theory is that moving the clock forward to extend daylight hours enables people to spend more time outdoors during spring and summer. With fewer hours indoors, less energy is used for lighting, watching television, or operating appliances. In the fall and winter, DST adjusts the clock back one hour, reducing the time between sunset and bedtime.

Does It Save Energy?

Early research that focused primarily on lighting, found that DST did save energy. Recent studies, which incorporate more comprehensive energy-use patterns, however, have produced mixed results:
  • In 1975, a U.S. Department of Transportation report found that DST might reduce the country's energy consumption by 1% in the spring.
  • A 1983 study of European homes found that DST reduced lighting energy use by 4%, while increasing heating energy use 1.2%. Overall, the study concluded that DST reduced energy use by 1.8%. (Aries 2008)
  • In 1999, a study of 15 European countries indicated that DST decreased lighting energy use by 1%, but increased demand for heating by 9%. (Aries 2008)
  • A recent report by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that DST increases overall residential energy use by 1%. While DST reduced overall electrical consumption for lighting, these savings were offset by increases in heating and cooling demand. (Kotchen 2010)
Others believe that the energy savings depends on where you live. Those living in northern states may save slightly because there is less demand for air conditioning. However, those living in southern states may use more energy during DST because the demand for air conditioning is greater. Still, there may be other benefits to daylight saving: an increase in tourism since people tend to be more active outdoors; a reduction in crime rates because crime tends to happen in darkness; and a decrease in traffic accidents because fewer people are driving home from work after dark.

Energy Policy Act of 2005

The Energy Policy Act of 2005 extended DST three weeks in the spring and one week in the fall, beginning in March of 2007. What effect has this had on energy use? Once again, the reports are mixed. A 2007 study by the California Energy Commission concluded that the extension of DST had "little or no effect on energy consumption." (CEC 2007) A U.S. Department of Energy report, however, concluded that total energy use decreased 0.5% per day of extended DST; roughly 0.03% of total annual energy use. Energy savings occurred in the evening, with a slight increase in energy use during morning hours. Energy savings were slightly greater during the spring than in the autumn. (DOE 2008)

The Future of Daylight Saving Time

Evidence that DST saves energy is mixed and contradictory. This may be due to inconsistencies in study methods, as well as technology and lifestyle changes since its inception. Lighting systems are much more efficient, and energy-use patterns for heating and cooling systems have changed significantly. It is likely the increased use of computers and electronics have reduced the impact of DST on overall energy use as well.
In recent years, there has been debate over whether to end DST or even extend it year-round. Future research will be helpful in weighing the cost and benefits of DST and comparing it with other energy conservation methods. When it comes to public opinion, a 2010 national telephone survey by Rasmussen Reports found that many people "don't think the time change is worth the hassle."

References

Aries, M.B.C.; Newsham, G.R. "The Affect of Daylight Saving Time on Lighting Energy Use: A Literature Review." Energy Policy, v. 36, no. 6, June 2008, pp. 1858-1866.
California Energy Commission (CEC). The Effect of Early Daylight Savings on California Electricity Consumption: A Statistical Analysis. May 2007.
Gurevitz, Mark. Daylight Saving Time. Congressional Research Service Report RS22284. March 7, 2007.
Handwerk, Brian. "Daylight Saving Time 2012: Why and When Does It Begin?" National Geographic Daily News, March 9, 2012. (Last accessed October 11, 2012).
Kotchen, Matthew and Grant, Laura. "Does Daylight Saving Time Save Energy? Evidence From a Natural Experiment in Indiana." To be published in The Review of Economics and Statistics. February 10, 2010. (Last accessed October 11, 2012).
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Impact of Extended Daylight Saving Time on National Energy Consumption. Report to Congress. October 2008. (Last accessed October 11, 2012)


Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Madagascar 3 - Marion Public Library (Nov 3, 2pm)


Madagascar 3 is playing at the Marion Public Library this Saturday afternoon, at 2pm.  The Children's Library staff host this FREE event in the basement, with popcorn for the kids.  I took my oldest son on a "date" to see a movie at the library last month while his brother was taking a nap (we saw the Lorax), and he LOVED it!  He's been seeing the poster up for Madagascar 3 and is quite excited to do it again!  Our "family movie" of the summer was Madagascar 3, and it was pretty funny (my boys thought it was hysterical!), so it should be fun!

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Campbell's Pumpkin Patch in Wabash - Open Until Oct 31

If you haven't been already this season, make sure you get to Campbell's Pumpkin Patch in Wabash before Halloween!  This great, family-run, affordable operation closes on Halloween until next Sept.  I've been twice already this season, once with my son's preschool class, and today with both my kiddos, and we had a great time!





There is a corn maze (my kids raced through about two dozen times), a hay ride, a hay maze (good, we found, for playing hide & go seek), pumpkins, tractors, a snack bar (amazing pumpkin cake), fire pit, and a giant inflatable bouncy pumpkin (my kids favorite!) for only $.75/10 mins.







For Directions & more info, CLICK HERE.





Thursday, October 25, 2012

Halloween Party at Library - Friday, Oct 26th

The Marion Public Library is having a Halloween Party for kids on Friday, Oct 26th from 6pm-7:30pm.  Kids we welcomed (but not required) to come in costume for some fun.  My kids are excited... maybe we'll see you there!?!


Saturday, October 20, 2012

FREE Kids Haircuts at JC Penney starting Nov 4th

jcpenney couponI've never heard of this until recently, but apparently in the fall JC Penney has offered FREE back-to-school haircuts for kids!  They did it in Aug, and will be starting up again in November.  This promo is for grades K – 6th, every Sunday, starting November 4th,. You will need to call your local JCPenney to make hair appointments.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

LEGO Creationary Challenge - Oct 20th at Toys-R-Us

 http://www.toysrus.com/cms_widgets/18/56/1856432_assets/100112B_LP_TRU_SpecialEvents_14.jpg 
Take the LEGO Creationary Challenge**  
Saturday, October 20, 2012 • 12-2pm Eastern  at Toys-R-Us locations
Show off your building skills an race against the clock! 
For more info, click HERE.  

Friday, October 12, 2012

Mississinewa 1812 Event - This Weekend (10/12-14)

Mississinewa 1812 is this weekend, outside of Marion, IN.  I'd never heard of this event before moving to the area, but have taken my kids the past couple of years, and it is pretty neat to see how people lived in 1812.  If you haven't been before, I suggest wearing good walking shoes, taking water bottles for your family, and making sure you have enough layers on to stay warm!  Plan on spending a couple of hours walking around, sampling the food (take some cash!), and of course, seeing the re-enactment. For more info, click here


Mississinewa 1812


At the historic

Mississinewa Battlefield
Marion, IN
Directions

Friday, October 12th, 9 am – 4 pm
Saturday, October 13th, 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday, October 14th, 9 am – 4 pm

Mississinewa
Mississinewa 1812 is the largest War of 1812 living history event in the United States.
Sponsored by the Mississinewa Battlefield Society, it is a historical commemoration of the
Battle of Mississinewa fought on December 17-18, 1812. It is a step back in time to 1812.

Adult tickets (ages 13 and up) are $6 at Marsh ($8 at the gate).
Child tickets (ages 6 to 12) are $4 at Marsh ($5 at the gate).

Friday, October 5, 2012

$5 Paint Rebate on VALSPAR Signature Paint

Shop Valspar Paint »Have a room/piece of furniture you've been meaning to paint?  Now is a great time!

$5 Paint Rebate on Every Gallon
Mail-in or online rebate valid on Valspar Signature Paint and Primer in One.  
Offer ends 10/8/2012.  
Get Details »

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Free Lego Event at Toys-R-Us Sat, Oct 6, 12 - 2pm

http://www.toysrus.com/cms_widgets/18/56/1856432_assets/100112B_LP_TRU_SpecialEvents_16.jpg 
LEGO Bricktober
Saturday, October 6, 2012 • 12-2pm Eastern
Get a FREE LEGO Monster Fighters accessories pack! Plus, help
your local store build a LEGO Monster Fighters spooky city!

For more info, CLICK HERE.  

Friday, September 28, 2012

Kidsignments Sale - Sept 28th & 29th

If you haven't heard already, the Kidsignments Sale - a giant weekend kids consignment sale - is going on RIGHT NOW at the Grant County Fairgrounds.  The sale is Friday, Sept 28th & Saturday, Sept 29th from 8am - 4pm.  If you're anywhere near Grant County and you have kids 12 & under, I suggest heading to the sale!



The Kidsignment Sale has clothes, furniture, strollers, bikes, toys, books, computer games, uniforms, coats, hats, mittens, shoes, diapers, baby equipment, etc. - anything & everything kids need.  They accept cash, check, credit or debit.

AND, on Saturday, about half the items left at the sale are 1/2 off!

For more info, just GO to the Grant County Fairgrounds on Hwy 18!  Or you can check out the website.  :)

Sunday, September 23, 2012

2012 Fall Health & Safety Children's Festival (9/27)

Save the Date for
2012 Fall Health & Safety Festival!
Thursday, September 27, 2012
3pm-7pm

Thursday, September 27th, from 3pm-7pm, Carey Services is partnering with Marion Community Schools Head Start for the 2012 Fall Health & Safety festival. The event will is being held at Lighthouse Baptist Church (Kem Road & Miller Ave) and will feature informational booths with many local health providers and agencies that promote health, nutrition, physical fitness, and safety issues in our community. Children and their parents will also participate in educational sessions on various topics and win wonderful door prizes. There will also be free developmental, lead, hemoglobin, vision, and hearing screenings available. 

Fall Fest activities are focused on Pregnant Women, Early Head Start Children (aged Newborn-3), and Head Start Children (aged 3-5). The event is promoted in our community and is open to the public.
 

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Lowes Build & Grow FREE Kids Clinics: Sept 22 & Oct 14

The next Lowes Build & Grow Clinics are coming up Saturday, Sept 22 & Saturday, Oct. 13th, each at 10am.  Over the summer they did these over Saturdays and Sundays, but it looks like they're back to just Saturdays.  Remember to register your kid (click HERE), so they know how many kits to have on hand, and also so that if you miss if you still might be able to pick up the kit to take home (I did that once, where I missed it and went into Lowes later and b/c I'd registered my kids online they let me take the kits home for free to do at home).  However, even if you forget to register them, you can still show up at 10am for the clinic. 

Fire Truck

Saturday, September 22 (10:00 AM)
Safety Month starts in October! Get it started right by building this cool Fire Truck at your local Lowe's!




Ghoul Bus

Saturday, October 13 (10:00 AM)
Halloween is right around the corner! Get in the spirit with this spooktacular Ghoul Bus!


Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Christian Rapper Andy Mineo: Concert 9/21 at IWU

This Friday at 7:30pm on Indiana Wesleyan University's Campus is a concert for Christian Rapper Andy Mineo, member of 116 Clique, a group of Christian rappers affiliated with Reach Records.  Admission is only $1, and the public is invited. 

At 5 years old, my little man already loves the beat to hip hop, so I think he and I may have a date to this concert. :)

Monday, September 17, 2012

FREE Event 9/20: Community Marketplace, A Showcase of Grant County Businesses

This Thursday, September 20th, from 3-7pm at the YMCA gym in Marion is a FREE event, open to the public.  Community Marketplace, a Showcase of Grant County Businesses, is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, the Chronicle Tribute, AEP, 106.9 Double XC, and others.  It will have free samples at the food court, face painting, a bounce house for kiddos, giveaways (including a 32" TV), and a tour of Grant County Businesses.

And, if you haven't already, you can pick up a PASSPORT, which is great little book with 1000 things kids should do before they graduate high school.  

This should be a fun community event, and I'm looking forward to it!  Hope to see you there! 

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Saturday, Sept 22 FREE Jars of Clay Concert in Gas City

World Playing for Change Day 33:3

World Playing for Change Day 33:3

Saturday, September 22, 2012 there is a peace festival beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Beaner Linn Park (Gas City park) in Gas City, Indiana. I don't know much about this event, but am intrigued, and I like Jars of Clay, so my family and I are going to go.  Jars of Clay will be performing a benefit concert for Blood: Water Mission in Gas City (at the Gas City Park).   Bring your blankets, bring your chairs, and come early!

Want more info?  Email: janie@thepottershouseofmarion.com, check out their FB page at  http://www.facebook.com/WorldPlayingForChangeDay333 or head to the Potter's House in Marion.
 


Friday, September 14, 2012

10 Free Thank You Cards for Treat (thru 9/19)

If you haven't used Tiny Prints before, you'll be pleased - they make great quality, super cute cards.  Try them out with this free promo - use FREETHANKS as your coupon code to get your 10 Free Cards!

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Great deal on Capri Sun 100% Juice at Meijer

Now that it is back to school, it seems that easy/quick-grab snacks are a must to have ready.  My kids both seem starving/dehydrated when I pick them up from school, and they're also both a little grumpy, which I'm guessing is related to the dehydration & over-stimulation from school (maybe it's just an excuse on my part, but I'm going with it!).  It seems we rarely go right home after school, so I've found having a few juice boxes in my car helps perk them up immensely.  Normally I'm not a huge fan of juice, because my soapbox is that kids get too much in general, but this one-per-day fix for my kids really helps (them & me!).


Anyway... in case your family is similar, I suggest heading to Meijer (or Walmart, who matches sales) to stock up on a Capri Sun 100% Juice or SuperV (blend of fruits & veggies, 65% juice, but a full blended serving of fruits & veggies).  Normally $3.69 for a box of 10 at Meijer, they're on sale for $2.50 each, and when you buy 3 in one transaction, you instantly get $3 off, making your total purchase price $4.50 for 3 boxes!  Even better, if you're a Meijer Perks member, you can "clip" a coupon online for $1.00 off 2 Capri Sun Boxes, which stacks with the other deal and makes your total $3.50 for 3 boxes (10 pouches each) of Capri Sun (= $.12/juice pouch).

Note: the $3/off 3 boxes is only good each transaction, so you have to do multiple transactions if you want to get that deal on more than 3 boxes... which, of course, I did, because I'm a sucker for a sale.  Just remember to get the 100% Juice or the SuperV - thankfully, those are the ones on sale b/c the others aren't real juice, but just pure sugar anyway.  And, lastly, don't forget to recycle the pouches - yes, you can recycle them through TerraCycle.  (I'll post on TerraCycle in the near future, but check it out through this link if you haven't already heard of it!) 



$10 off coupons from Lowes

Get Started with myLowesRight now Lowes is offering a promo - if you sign up at mylowes and register your email address with a new account, Lowes will email you a coupon, $10 off purchase of $10 or more.  Note: the coupon won't be emailed to you for 24-48 hours, but it really does come (I got mine!).  Check it out - CLICK HERE

Monday, September 10, 2012

Free Pirate Show at Marion Public Library (9/19)

On Wednesday, September 19th at 6:30pm in Meeting Room B, the Marion Public Library is putting on a Pirate Show with Squiffy Paul O Pirate (I have no idea who he is, but thinking it sounds fun!).  Get ready for music, magic, and audience participation, and feel free to dress as a pirate to the event! 

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Fun Discovery for Kids: Children's Author Mo Willems

If you haven't been to the Marion Public Library recently, I encourage you to stop by!  My kids and I go about 2x/week, and they love it!  They're always holding events for kids (& adults - book discussions, movies showings, lectures, etc.), and their Children's librarians are amazing!

I was feeling like I was in a rut for picking out books for my kiddos recently, and just went up to the Children's librarian, told her about my kids and asked for suggestions.  She showed me several series of books my kids have LOVED!  One of the series is by Mo Willems, who I'd never heard of, but after checking out about a dozen of his books for my kids, I have learned to LOVE!  Check out his blog for fun games, etc. for kids (try the hot dog one, my kids think it is hilarious!), and go to the library for for his books!  The librarian told me that these were the first books her son learned to read, where she took the voice of one character (the Elephant) and her son took on the voice of the other (the Pig).  When you get the books, this'll make sense, and it is a GREAT idea, so I recommend trying it out!  Thanks Tylanna the Children's Librarian!  The librarians are GREAT resources - use them!   Mo Willems Doodles