Brenda Writes A Blog

Adventure Landing = FUN

2014-07-29T17:41:00.000-05:00

Still looking for places to take the kiddos for a fun time without melting in the heat, or breaking the bank? Adventure Landing is The Place to Play! They have something for everyone, from kids to adults so the whole family can enjoy all of the excitement that Adventure Landing has to offer. Stay cool in the summer and get splashed by their Bumper Boats (AJ LOVES these!). Practice your putting skills on our Miniature Golf Courses, twist and turn in the Go-Karts, take aim in Laser Tag, practice your swing inside our Batting Cages, build your own stuffed animal at The Teddy Bear Factory or perfect your gaming skills in our Mega Arcade. Adventure Landing is Affordable Family Fun...So Close to Home! And....because I wouldn't send you somewhere without a coupon - head HERE to print an awesome coupon to save you some cash!

Do It Yourself Microwave Popcorn

2014-07-29T17:40:00.000-05:00

photo/recipe credit
Have your kids ever asked for some microwave popcorn and you go to the pantry to discover you are fresh out? Instead of popping some on the stove, or dragging out the air popper, here is a quick and easy fix! Who'da thunk it?! Lisa from Snack Girl has shared her secret recipe.

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

Put 1/4 cup popcorn in a brown paper bag. Fold top over a few times and tape it.
Place in microwave folded side upfor 2 to 3 minutes or until there is 5 seconds between pops.
Eat plain or add flavors (such as salt, butter, sugar, etc.)

Amazing Jake's

2014-07-29T17:25:00.002-05:00

It is HOT in Texas - and we are melting! It gets so hot in the afternoon that all the boys want to do is stay inside and play the dreaded video games. Sound familiar? Well, here's a great opportunity to drag 'em out of the house, and still stay cool. Amazing Jake's Plano is The Place to Play! They have something for everyone, from kids to adults so the whole family can enjoy all of the excitement that Amazing Jake's has to offer. Amazing Jake's is over 95,000 square feet of food and fun, conveniently located inside the Collin Creek Mall. They offer an Amazing Buffet of Pizza, Soups, Salads and Desserts. Practice your putting skills on our Miniature Golf Course, race your friends on the Go-Karts, take aim in Laser Tag, climb 25 feet off the ground on the Rock Climbing Wall, bump and dodge on our Bumper Cars, perfect your gaming skills and win prizes in our Mega Arcade or enjoy our various Kid City Rides! Head HERE for coupons (because ya know I wouldn't send you without a great deal, right?!?!) You'll be able to Buy One Buffet, and get a second one FREE. :)

BzzAgent - Sample New Products & Review

2014-07-25T13:43:00.000-05:00

Do you like to sample new products and review them? Are you familiar with BzzAgent? I've been a member of BzzAgent since 2009, and have thus far participated in 15 different campaigns. As a member I get to try new products for free, all of which are shipped to my home at no charge to me. In return I give them my opinions about the products. In the Bzzagent Bzzkit you will find at least one full sized product and a bunch of samples and coupons plus a Bzzguide that introduces the item. I share the samples and coupons with my friends and family and report to Bzzagent. I just received an invitation from them to try Luster Premium White tooth whitening system & toothpaste (a $40 value) for FREE! So you can get an idea of how it works, below is summary of some of the Bzz Campaigns that I've participated in, and what I received:

Disney Cars 2: The Video Game - They just sent me this Wii game to have a party and try for free.
TRESemme(R) Color Revitalize - They sent out a full size bottle of this shampoo and conditioner.
L'Oreal One Sweep Eye Shadow and Eye Illuminator Mascara - Free eye shadow and mascara!
Welch's Healthy Start - Received coupons for free bottles of this amazing juice.
L'Oreal(R) Paris Collagen Micro-Pulse(TM) - Evaluated a full-size tube of this anti-aging product.
Children's Claritin 2010 - Received full size box and coupons.
Mahatma(r) Jasmine & Basmati Rice - They sent a box of TWENTY full size bags of rice (10/each flavor) for me to evaluate and distribute to friends.
Revitalift (R) Deep-Set Wrinkle 24HR Eye Repair Duo - Received full size bottle to evaluate.

In addition to the free product, they always send along coupons for me to share with family and friends. The idea is to evaluate the products, spread the "buzz" to your friends, and fill out a brief survey afterwards. They will periodically email you surveys to take (it never takes more than a few minutes to complete the surveys, and those help you earn points on MyRewards).

Honestly, of course I love getting free stuff in the mail. But I'm also very interested in seeing new products before they're available. I feel that when I evaluate and give feedback that the companies are really listening to me. It's a lot of fun. If this sounds like something you'd enjoy doing, you can go HERE for more information.

Happy 18th Birthday To My Sam

2014-07-09T16:52:00.000-05:00

Eighteen years ago, I was in the hospital struggling to give birth to my first child who was already named Sam. We had spent the entire 9 months of pregnancy preparing. We took classes, we read every book out there, we had the drawers and closet STUFFED fulled of clothes. His room was filled with books and toys. I'd stocked up on TONS of diapers and wipes. We were completely and absolutely READY. And then we hit a little bump in the road. Sam, apparently, did not want to come out. He wasn't quite as prepared for the real world as we were for him. After a looooong day, and a few scares, he was finally TAKEN from his little cocoon by a HUGE set of salad tongs (AKA forceps)! I don't recommend them.

Now, sixteens years later I sit at home baking a GINORMOUS cupcake cake, while we finalize his college plans. COLLEGE...seriously, where does the time go!

I just had to give a shout out to my little Sam (yes, he'll always be little to me - even though he's currently 6'1" and 175 pounds). He's become a fine young man, a talented musician, great student and we couldn't ask for a better son. We're very proud of him!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAM!!!!!!

Where Is Luigi? And Other Nonsense

2014-06-24T14:44:00.000-05:00

What is Luigi doing, you might ask? He's hiding, of course! He's the key player in a new game my boys and I like to call Where Is Luigi. We take turns hiding Luigi in various places in the house. Pick a room - and he must be visible to the eye. He can be a little hidden, but mostly visible. You would not believe how much fun we have with this silly game. Nor would you believe the places that Luigi has turned up (but that's another story). Either we are easily amused, or we're onto something. Probably a little of both!

What's up with the random toys? They're another game we like to play called What's Missing. You take turns gathering up several random object. It could be anything, from anywhere in the house. You arrange them in a cluster, then give everyone 30 seconds to memorize what's there. After 30 seconds are up, the kids close their eyes and I remove one of the objects. They have to figure out what I took. The number of objects you place can change depending on how old your kids are. The younger, the less objects. Older kids - stick a whole bunch a stuff in there! You'd be surprised how fun this is.

I'm kinda lazy. While my boys love to play board games, I don't always feel like messing with it. This is a good solution for times when I'm just not feelin' it. They get to play a fun game, and there's no fuss, no muss. What games do you play in your house?

Mommy's Ransom Box

2014-06-11T12:15:00.000-05:00

FABULOUS idea from Just Another Day In Paradise! Over the summer the kids have gotten seriously lax about leaving their stuff EVERYWHERE. I cannot tell you how many times I have said "If you don't pick that up and put it away where it belongs it's going to belong to me." HERE is an actual system I can put in place to back up that threat and really follow-thru.
When your kiddos leave something out for the upteenth time, you hold it for ransom, and they have to do a chore to earn it back. TOTALLY love that idea! I usually just keep the item for a day and then hand it back over. I've been missing out on some free labor! Head HERE to download the "UH OH" label. She's also got a great idea on there for a Punchable Chore Card that I may put into action.

Cheese Bread Like Red Lobster

2014-05-21T10:15:00.000-05:00

photo/recipe credit

Oh, wow. THIS looks amazing. I have to be upfront and say that I am NOT a Red Lobster fan - I detest all things seafood. Thankfully I was able to find a husband who feels the same! Growing up, my parents were (and still are) fans of Red Lobster. There were times that we would go there as a family, and the ONLY thing that got me thru was their amazing cheese biscuits. This bread is THAT recipe, in LOAF form. Tammy, over at Praying For Parker has cracked the code, and posted this great recipe. I WILL be making this. Probably the next time I fix a big ol' batch of Chicken Noodle Soup. Now just to wait for a really chilly day.

Crank Up The Printer

2014-03-12T12:20:00.002-05:00

Before you head out to the grocery store, crank up the printer and save some cash on these essentials when the kids and their friends are eating you out of house & home (something I am quite familiar with!)....

LEGOLAND Discovery Center-FREE Kid's Ticket

2014-03-12T12:16:00.000-05:00

Looking for more ideas to keep the kiddos occupied during Spring Break? It's hard to keep 'em busy without breaking the bank! This offer from LEGOLAND Discovery Center is sure to make the kids (and your wallet) happy. Click HERE to grab a coupon for a FREE Kid's Ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket.
LEGOLAND was kind enough to provide our family with complimentary tickets to come check out their Grapevine venue, and we had a blast!
Our favorite attraction was the 4D Movie complex, where we saw two of the three movies. Not only will you experience some awesome 3D films, but you'll be misted with water, feel the breeze as it happens in the film, and have bubbles fall on you - my kids LOVED it!
There is also a play center for the kids to crawl on & thru - with giant LEGO bricks to build with. Add in the two rides, and you've got all the makings for a fun family outing.

We just missed the Star Wars Mini Land - which opens April 1st, but the Dallas Mini Land was AMAZING. I couldn't help but wonder how many hours and bricks it took to complete this attraction which re-creates all the famous landmarks of Dallas and Fort Worth. The boys had fun looking for Spongebob and Patrick figurines throughout the exhibit.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Grapevine is one of DFW's best attractions for kids! You can also build the fastest car in LEGO Racers: Build & Test, zap the bad guys in Kingdom Quest Laser Ride, or have the ultimate LEGO birthday party. Plan your family visit and jump into the biggest box of LEGO bricks! We highly recommend it! :)
Don't head out before printing your coupon HERE.

This coupon is not valid with pre-purchased online tickets nor can it be combined with any other offer or discount. Valid up to (4) free child tickets per coupon with the purchase of (4) adult tickets. Child ticket only valid on the day of purchase.

Free Appetizer From On The Border

2014-03-12T12:15:00.001-05:00

We're on Spring Break, and doing a lot of running around and eating out (something we don't typically do a lot of!). Click on the banner to get a FREE appetizer from On The Border (with purchase). Restrictions apply.

$2 Off Aleve-D

2014-03-12T12:12:00.003-05:00

Click on the image above to grab a coupon to save $2 off Aleve-D. We've been battling allergy and cold symptoms in the Park house for months now!

Make Your Own Comic Book = FUN

2014-03-12T12:03:00.001-05:00

Ever wanted to make your own cartoon or comic book? You can do it without a publisher at Blurb! And if you're worried about quality, don't! Blurb paired up with one of the all time comic book greats, Paul Rivoche, who is known for illustrations of Batman and Ironman to name a few. Heard of those guys? I thought so! Take a look at this video and try not to be inspired to write up your own book right now.

FREE Cat Food!

2014-02-28T18:00:00.000-06:00

Heads up cat owners! How does SIX free cans of cat food sound? Head to Coupons.com and print TWO copies of this hot $2/3 Wet IAMS Cat Food coupon!

Then head to Target to score this great deal:
Buy 3 Iams Purrfect Delights Cat Food 3 oz Cans $0.59 each
Total = $1.77
Use the $2/3 Wet Iams Cat Food coupon found here
Final cost – 3 FREE cans!
Thanks, Hip2Save!
This will make my little Jack a very happy camper! LOL

Kids Go Free - SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium!

2014-02-28T17:52:00.003-06:00

Looking for something fun to do over the upcoming Spring Break? Check out the SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium - Over 5,000 sea creatures, 30 incredible displays and a 360 degree ocean tunnel! SEA LIFE Aquarium will transport you into the amazing underwater world. Come nose to nose with sharks and prepare for astonishingly close views of everything from humble starfish and seahorses to graceful rays. To get any closer you'd have to get wet! Are you a Shark lover or Seahorse fanatic? Perhaps it's the graceful rays or the clever Octopus that you love the most. Maybe you simply can't decide! At SEA LIFE you can make up your mind and see them all - from the curious and the rescued to the rare and the enigmatic. And you'll be able to get closer to them than ever before.
Even better - right now Kids Go Free!! Just present this coupon to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth or SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium Admissions Center to receive one free child ticket with the purchase of a full-price standard admission ticket. This coupon is not valid with pre-purchased online tickets nor can it be combined with any other offer or discount. Valid up to (4) free child tickets per coupon with the purchase of (4) adult tickets. Child ticket only valid on the day of purchase. http://dfwkidsguide.com/coupon.php?regionid=403&bid=11225&lid=14350&dealid=1292

High Value Coupons

2014-02-21T16:34:00.000-06:00

We're almost to the end of February (already!)....and a new month typically means new coupons. Print these HOT high value coupons while you can:

Breakfast Berry Nachos

2014-02-11T13:34:00.000-06:00

photo/recipe credit

Wowzers - these Breakfast Berry Nachos look amazing. And I can assure you that my boys would gooble 'em up. I'm thinkin' instead of the wheat pita chips I will substitute some cut up Cinnamon Raisin Bread toast. I might have to make one for myself first - you know, just to make sure it's OK! Best part about it is that it's mega-quick to throw together on a school morning. Head HERE for the full recipe.

A Finger Knitting How-To

2014-01-01T17:14:00.000-06:00

photo credit

AJ learned how to finger knit in art class. After school pickup that day, he was INSPIRED and we HAD to make a run to Michael's for yarn - all types of colors! He spent a good deal of time over the winter break knitting lovely scarves as gifts for his friends and family. He spent even more time teaching each of us how to finger knit. It's such fun, and the best part is that the kiddos can really see their progress QUICKLY. I looked around and found this wonderful tutorial on finger knitting at Flax & Twine. Anne will show you EXACTLY how to finger knit, with LOTS of step-by-step photos (AWESOME!). Give it a shot next time you're feeling crafty!

Make A Holiday Train Engine With The Kids - FREE Today

2013-12-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

REMINDER: This is going on this morning if you're looking for something to do with the kiddos today....
Mark your calendar for this upcoming Lowe's Build & Grow Workshop. You may want to go ahead and sign up for these NOW, so you don't get there Saturday and they're out of kits. Nothing worse than a disappointed kid. These are a great way to entertain the kids for FREE!

Lowe's Build & Grow Workshop

Train Engine

Saturday, December 14th 10am-11am

Scholastic Book Fair Warehouse Sale

2013-12-13T10:32:00.000-06:00

REMINDER: This is coming up.....
The Scholastic Book Fair Warehouse Sale is coming up again. For all my local readers, the nearest one is being held at the Curtis Cullwell Center (in Garland, off 190) on December 16-17th. Here's the flyer with all the details. For those of you who are NOT local, you can go HERE to type in your zip code and see where the sales are in your area. They are being held all over the country.

Find your nearest location and click REGISTER.
You'll then print your Fast-Cart Pass that serves as your admission ticket.
You'll also nab a great coupon to Save $10 off your $50+ purchase, or $25 off your $100 purchase.

These sales are for school & district employees, homeschoolers, Book Fair chairpeople and volunteers. Do you homeschool or volunteer at your local school? You qualify. I went last year and got some GREAT STUFF for GREAT PRICES. I then held onto it for birthdays, holidays or when I just wanted to surprise my kids. They don't just have kids items - there are recipe books, adult books, all sorts of goodies. You WILL find something!

Awesome Kids Blurb Book Ideas

2013-12-12T13:21:00.004-06:00

There’s something about the holidays—that warm glow from the fire, the fact that you actually get to spend time with your kids (or your friends’ and family’s kids)—that makes it the perfect time to curl up with the little ones in your life and read them a storybook. Reading a totally new, beautiful, amazing book with a child is a treasured holiday experience. And if you choose the right book, every time the child reads it alone in the future will bring back the memory of that time you shared. If you’re a little tired of the standard children’s book selections in your local brick and mortar store, Blurb has a really incredible assortment of self-published children’s books that you won’t find anywhere else this holiday season. Try a few of these future classics and create some new holiday memories this year.

Title: Ollie + Loo
Author: Joni Cooper
www.blurb.com/b/4554150-ollie-+-loo
Joni Cooper brings incredibly original characters to life with brilliant illustrations in a book that will have parents and kids laughing along together.

Title: Edward Hopper and the Carrot Crunch
Author: Mike Smith
www.blurb.com/books/1189264-edward-hopper-and-the-carrot-crunch
Very few children’s books have financial mismanagement as a central theme—we can only assume most children’s book authors have not had the pleasure of meeting a rabbit named Edward Hopper.

Title: My Bug Journal
Author: Hannah Rollings
www.blurb.com/b/1925331-my-bug-journal
Bug-lover or other, this journal is sure to spark interest from anyone who takes a peek inside the covers. Enchanted illustrations, bug facts, room for records and much, much more.

Title: Myrtle & the Scarecrow
Author: Kate Lowe
www.blurb.com/b/4662116-myrtle-the-scarecrow
Myrtle finds solace with a not-so-scary scarecrow?and learns a lot about herself? in this short but sweet tale. The atmospheric illustrations have a little magic about them—we look forward to more from this young, talented illustrator.

Best of all, you can Save 20% on print books when you spend $40 or more!

REMINDER: This is Today! :D

2013-12-12T06:20:00.000-06:00

LOVE Krispy Kreme doughnuts? This is me waving my hand wildly! On December 12th you can print THIS coupon and score a FREE dozen Original Glazed doughnuts when you buy a dozen. Sounds like a plan to me! NOTE: Valid 12/12/12 ONLY.

Upcoming Lowe's Workshop

2013-12-11T09:30:00.000-06:00

Mark your calendar for this upcoming Lowe's Build & Grow Workshop. You may want to go ahead and sign up for these NOW, so you don't get there Saturday and they're out of kits. Nothing worse than a disappointed kid. These are a great way to entertain the kids for FREE!

Lowe's Build & Grow Workshop

Train Engine

Saturday, December 14th 10am-11am

Build A Tic Tac Toe Game Today

2013-12-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

REMINDER: This is happening this morning if you're looking for something (free) to do....
Mark your calendar for this fun upcoming Home Depot Kid's Workshop. We love doing the Lowe's and Home Depot workshops, they're a great way to spend time with your kids, they can feel a sense of accomplishment from building something themselves.....and did I mention they're FREE?

Tic Tac Toe Game

Saturday, December 7th, 2013

9AM-Noon

Make a fun Tic-Tac-Toe Board.
FREE hands-on workshops; designed for children ages 5 - 12.
Offered the 1st Saturday of every month at all The Home Depot stores between 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Please do not arrive before 9:00 a.m.
Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills, tool safety and instill a sense of pride and accomplishment.
All kids get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin.
One workshop kit, apron and pin per child, while supplies last.
Children must be present at the store to participate in the workshop and receive the kit, apron and pin.
Kids Workshop activities are scheduled on a first come/first served basis.

Free Queso At On The Border

2013-12-06T06:55:00.000-06:00

If you're heading to On The Border anytime soon, don't leave the house without grabbing this deal! Click the banner to print a coupon for a Free Bowl of Queso with purchase of adult entree from On the Border. Their queso is so YUMMY!