Engineered North of 85

June Weaver Street Deals

2010-06-17T07:15:00.000-07:00

These are the items from the Co-op Advantage Flyer for June. I will say I am more than Disappointed with what I was able to find over the net. This list only includes those items I found printable coupons.

Muir Glen Organic Tomatoes 14.5oz 2/$3
$1 Off
Cascadian Farm Organic Vegetables 2/$5
$1 Off (sign up for News Letter)

Organic Almond Beverage 2.29
$1 Off Any 2 pacific naturals coupons

Garden Of Eatin 16oz 2.99
$1 Off Coupon

Honest Tea 64oz 2.49
.75 Off Coupon

Organic Valley Milk 64oz 3.49
.75 off 2 half Gallon Milk

OrganicValley Half and Half
.75 off Half and Half or Whipping Cream

Stoney Field Organic Yogurt 6oz 5/$4
.50 off Three 6oz Yogurts register or sign in to access coupons

Spectrum Essentials Omega 3 Fish Oil 100ct 8.99
$3 Off Coupon

Seventh Generation Cleaning Products 32oz 2.99
$1off Coupon (Join 7th generation to get coupons)
$2 on 2 Products

Micheal Angelo's Italian Entrees 10-12oz 3.29
$1 off any size Entree

Food Lion Blinkie Alert

2010-05-25T06:33:00.000-07:00

Last night while my step kids and I were waiting on our food from Vinnie's we went over to Food Lion. I took the time to look for blinkies.
Remember that Blinkies are the in store coupon dispensers. In general these coupons are promoting new products or products that are being promoted seasonally. New products usually go on sale in the first 6 weeks they are introduced into the store, so take those blinkie coupons for additional savings. Products that are under seasonal promotion are usually on sale the same time that blinkies are out in the store, so you save money twice.

$1 Two Orville Reddenbacher's Microwave Popcorn
$.50 Silk PureAlmond, Almond Milk
$1.00 Boost Multipack
$1 off any 2 Tony's Crispy Crust Pizza
$1 off Red Baron Pizza by the Slice

Tear Pad

$1 Off, when you purchase Honey Maid Graham, Hershey's Milk Chocolate (6pk), and Jet Puffed Mashmallows

Denise

Save the Dance

2010-05-24T06:14:00.000-07:00

This is a bit of a last minute post.
The CW Stanford 8th grade students and parents have been raising funds to save the 8th grade social. The 8th grade social is a long standing tradition at CWS. According to parents the social has been held for the past 40 years. In previous years different organizations at the school have funded the dance. With recent budget cuts, and lack of funding the 8th grade Social was cut from the schedule.
Parents at in the last hour stepped up to raise funds to make it happen and we are now inviting the public to Vinnie's in Churton Grove to raise additional funds. For today only you can present at coupon at Vinnie's that will contribute 10% of your purchase to the CWS 8th grade social fund. You can print the coupon here and bring it with you. Select the text below, and then go to print, and check "Print Selection"

FUNDRAISER FOR CWS 8^th GRADE SOCIAL

Vinny’s Italian Grill and Pizzeria

133 N. Scotswood Blvd, Hillsborough, NC

Churton Grove Center

919-732-9219

Come out and bring the family for a wonderful meal to help us raise money for our

8^th Grade Social at Stanford Middle School!

MONDAY, May 24^th 11:00am-10:00pm Lunch, Dinner or Take Out

YOU MUST BRING THIS COUPON

present coupon at checkout and Vinny’s will donate 10% of your bill to CWS!!

May Weaver Street Deals.

2010-05-13T19:35:00.000-07:00

These are the May Deals from Weaver Street Market

A few Notes. Weaver Street Market asks that patrons only use one coupon per item per visit. Keep that in mind when shopping. The upshot is that these deals last until the end of the month...you'll have plenty of time to stock up.
Weaver Street market may not have all of the items listed in the "Sale Paper." If I have listed an item that Weaver Street doesn't carry please leave me a comment.

Enjoy Shopping!

Front Page
Honest Tea, 16 oz, .99
.50 Off Coupon Sign up for News Letter
.20 off Co-Op Advantage Savings booklet

Stoney Field 32oz 3.29
.50 off Coupon sign up for news letter

Cascadian Farms Organic Frozen Fruit 2.99
$1.00 Off (New Users)

Barbara's Bakery Shredded Cereal 2.99
$1.00 off In store Tear Pad Coupon
$1.00 off Co-Op Advantage Savings Booklet

Muir Glen Organic Tomatoes 28oz 1.99
$1 off Coupon

Cascadian Farm Organic Fruit Spread 10z 2.49
$1 off Coupon (New Users)

Cascadian Farm Organic Granola Bars 7.4oz 3.79
$1 off Coupon (New Users)
$1 Off Coupon, Co-Op Advantage Savings Booklet

Garden of Eatin corn chips, 9oz 2/$5
$1 Coupon (sign up for News Letter)

Terra Exotic Vegetable Chips 6oz 2.49
$1 Off Coupon
.50 Off In store Tear Pad
.50 Off co-op Advantage Savings Booklet

Green and Black's Organic Chocolate 3.5oz Bar 2/$5
.50 off Co-Advantage Savings Booklet

Panda Natural Licorice Chews 7oz 2.29
.30 Off Co-Op Advantage Savings Booklet

Late July Organic Crackers 5-6oz 1.99
(Join them on Facebook, and get coupons)

Traditional Medicinals Women's Tea 16ct 3.79
$1 off Co-Op Advantage Savings Booklet

Blue Diamond Almond Breeze 64oz 3.29
.50 Off Coupon

Brown Cow Yogurt 6oz 4/$3 (select varieties)
.50 off Coupons

Organic Valley Cottage Cheese 16oz 3.79
$2 off Two Organic Valley Products, In-store tear pad
.75 off Coupon

So Delicious Coonut Milk Yogurt 6oz 2/$3 (select varieties)
$1 Off Coupon sign up for News Letter

Frozen
Applegate Farms Organic Beef Hot Dogs 12oz 4.99
$1 Coupon (sign up for news letter, it will be emailed)

Purely Decadent Coconut milk Non Dairy Frozen Dessert 16oz 3.99 (select varieties)
$1 off Coupon

Wellness
Kiss My Face SPF 30 Hot SPots .5oz 5.99
$1 Off Co-OP Advantage Savings booklet

Non Food
Bio-Kleen Bac Out Cleaner 16oz 4.49
.75 Off Any One Bio-Kleen Product
1.50 Off Co-op Advantage Savings booklet

Listed Without Coupons
Kettle Chips, 5oz 1.79
Spectrum Naturals, Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil 25.4 oz 9.99
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil 60 Soft Gels 13.99
Peace Cereal 10-15oz 3.49
Erewhon 10-15oz 2.99
Westsoy Soymilk 32oz 1.99
Enviro Kids Crispy Rice bars 6oz 2.79
Maranatha Organic Peanut butter 16oz 4.29
Kashi TLC cookies 8.5oz 2.99
Organic Refried Beans 15.4oz 1.99
Pamela's Products Wheat Free, Gluten Free Products 7.25oz 2.99
Green Mountain Gringo, Salsa 16oz 3.29
Rudi's Organic Bakery, Hot dog buns, 6ct, 2.59
Izze, sparkling Juice Soda, 4 Pack, 3.99
Drew's All Natural Salad Dressing, 12oz 2.99
Annie's Naturals Organic Ketchup 24oz 2.99
Zevia Natural Zero Calorie Soda 6pl 4.49
RW Knudsen Organic Recharge 32oz 1.99
Cool Fruits Fruit Juice Freezers 14oz 2/$5
Annies Home Grown Pasta and Cheese 3/$4
Muir Glen, Organic Pasta Sauce 25.5oz 2.99
San-J Rice Crackers 2.8-3.7oz 2.49
Follow Your Heart Original Vegenaise 16oz 3.29
YVES Meat Less Hot Dogs 9.7-12oz 2.79 (select Varieties)
Alexia Sweet Potato Fries 15oz 2.49
Ciao Bella Sorbet or Gelato 16oz 3.49 (select varieties)
Ethnic Gourmet Entrees 10-11oz 3.49 (select varieties)
Ling Ling Asian Appetizers11-13oz 3.49 (select varieties)
Ian's Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets 8oz 4.49
Maria and Ricardo's Tortillas 8ct 2.29
Nature's Gate Shampoo and Conditioner 18oz 4.99 (select Varieties)
Clearly Natural Soap 4oz 1.29 (select varieties)
Shikia Shower Gel 12oz 5.99 (select Varieties)
Aura Cacia Mineral Bath 2.5oz 1.99 (select varieties)
Westsoy Traditional Seitan 8oz 2.99
Emeria Pro-gest Cream 2oz 19.99
Quantum Buzz Away Extreme Spray 4oz 6.99
Boiron Sabadil 60 tabs 7.99
New Chapter Every Women's One Daily 24ct 16.99
Mrs. Meyer's Dish Soap 16oz 2.99
Annie's Home Grocer Family Size Shells and cheddar 10.5oz 2-$5
Wild Planet Albacore Tuna 5 oz 2.69
R.W. Knudsen Spritzers 4pk 2.99
Lake Wood Organic Pomegranate Blend Juice 32oz 2.99
Choice Organic Tea 16ct 2.49
The Greek gods, Greek Style Yogurt 24oz 3.49
Apple and Eve Organic Apple Juice 48oz 2.99

I have 5 Minutes and so do you..EAT THIS

2010-05-05T09:30:00.000-07:00

Quick update. I haven't been around a lot because my family and I have been BUSY! More to come on that. In other News PRINCESS the dog is safe and sound. She had her surgery, and for anyone who donated money THANK YOU!

Back to the 5 Minutes you have inorder to make something REALLY awesome.
1/2 cup Romain Lettuce
1/2 cup Baby Spinach
1/2 Avocado (diced)
1/2 Mango (Sliced long ways)
A splash and Dash of the Following
Red Wine Vinegar
Olive Oil
Mrs. Dash Table Blend (or salt and pepper)
Granola
Honey

In a medium bowl combine Romaine, Spinach, Avocado, and Mango.
In a seperate bowl whisk the remaining ingredients.
Pour over the salad...and OMG! Its amazing. So sweet, and tangy.

Help Save Princess

2010-04-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, morning I was introduced to Princess. Princess is a 4 month old puppy who belongs to my DS's teachers aid's daughter. Princess recently broke her leg. The broken leg requires surgery for it to be fixed. The TA told us the surgery is expensive and they are currently trying to raise at least half of the cost of the surgery, which is around $400.
If you are interested in helping, please contact
North Churton Animal Hospital.
636 North Churton Street
Hillsborough, NC 27278-2103
(919) 644-7387
Tell them you would like to donate to account # 1544.

Thanks.

Blinkie Alert at Food Lion and a few other things!

2010-04-09T06:27:00.000-07:00

Not so long ago I rarely used coupons. IF I did use coupons it was because I found blinkies (those little machines that dispense coupons in the store). I would only use them if the blinkie coupon could be combined with a sale or made the item significantly less like a $1 off coupon for an time that was only $2 or something similar.
Yesterday, I went to Food Lion to scope out those unadvertised MVP deals and found several blinkies in the store that might help you.

Kraft 100 Calorie Packs 2.79
-.75
Ronzoni Pasta (this is a new item too, and will go on sale in the next 6weeks)
.-.50
Uncle Ben's Long Grain and Wild Rice 1.95
-.55
Dannon Light and Fit (six singles or 4 pack)
-.60
Vlasic Pickles 2/5.00
-.75
Pure Almond Silk
-.55

***Please remember when getting blinkies and coupons from Tearpads, please only take two and leave the rest for your fellow shopper****

Other Stuff!
I did find a few deals that weren't advertised. (there's more in the store but I was on a quick trip)
Gold Medal Flour 2/3.00
Kraft Salad Dressing 2/4.00
Salad Spinner, BOGO. Regular price 9.99, rings up Half price if you get one!

A trick for the Special K Sale! Save $5 when you buy 4 Special K Products.
Cereal and Cereal Bars are 2/$5...after savings 4 costs 1.25each

Weaver Street Deals for the Month of April

2010-04-08T08:40:00.000-07:00

I love Weaver Street market but I don't shop there often. This month I challenged myself to do some deal match ups from teh Co-op Advantage sales flyer.
These deals are for everyone, and you do not have to be a member.

Grocery
Organic Valley Organic Butter 4.49
-1.00 coupon
Newmans Own Organics Organic mircrowave Popcorn 2.59
-.50 Coupon
R.W. Knudsen Just Juice 32oz 5.99
-$1 coupon
Annie Chun's Noodle or Soup Bowls 5.3-9.1oz 2/$5

- $1 Coupon (sign up for newsletter)

Rustic Pizza Curst 9-16oz 2.99

-$1 Coupon (sign up for News letter)

-$5 when you buy 4 Rustic Product Coupon

Dr. Kracker Organic Flatbread 7oz 3.29

-.75 coupon

Boulder Chips 5oz $1.79

-.50 Co-op Advantage Savings Booklet

Country Choice Organic Organic Creme Cookies 12 oz 2.99

-.50 Co-op Advantage Savings Booklet

So Delicious Coco Nut Milk 64oz 3.49
-$1 Coupon
Cascadian Farms Frozen Vegetables 10 1.99
-$1 Coupon (sign up for News letter)
Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent 100 oz 9.99
-$1 off coupon
Citrasolv Dish Liquid 2.99
- 1.00 coupon
Bac Enzyme Cleaner 32oz 5.99
-$1.50 Co-op Advantage Savings
Similasan Homeopathic Relief .33-.5oz 8.99
-$1 Coupon

Other Items on sale, but no coupon.

Grocery
Larabar .99
Kashi TLC Crackers 6-9oz 2.79
Natures Path Organic Eco Pac Cereal 26.4-32oz 5.99Stacy's Pita Chips $1.99
Yogi Cereal 12 oz $2.99
Arrow Head Mills Pancake and Waffle Mix 32oz 3.79
R.W Knudsen Simply Nutritious Juice 32oz 2.79
Rice Dream Enriched Rice Beverage 32oz 2/$5
Vermont Villiage Organic Apple Sauce 24oz 2.99
Health Valley Oragnic Bars 6-8.5oz 2.99
Living Harvest Hempmilk 2.79
Wholesome Sweeteners Organic Blue Agave23.5oz $4.99
Equal Exchange Organic Tea 25ct 2.79
Sweetleaf Sweetner Packs 50ct 4.49
Little Bear Tortilla Chips 16oz 2.79
Drews All Natural Salsa 12oz $2.69
Blue Sky Organic Soda 6pk 3.49
Pirate Brand Natural Snacks 4-6oz 1.79
STEAZ organic Energy Drink 4pk 5.79
Yogi Tea 16ct $3.49
Barbabra's Bakery Snackimals Crackers 2.125oz 4/$3
RW Knudsen Juices Packs 3ct 1.99
Bionature Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil 25.4oz $12.99
Thai Kitchen Organic Cocoa Nut Milk 14oz 1.69
Ryvita Crispbread 8.8oz 1.79
Annies Naturals Dressing 8oz 2/$5
Zoe Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2.5 $8.99
Nitva Organic Coconut Oil 15oz 5.99
Tasty Bite Indian Entrees 10oz 2/$5
Near East Rice Pilaf 6.09oz 3/$5
A Vogel Seasoning Salt 8.8oz 5.79
Mediterranean Organic Preserves 13oz 3.59
Once Again Nut butter, Peanut butter 16oz 3.99
Blue Diamond Nut Thins 4.25oz 1.99
Nancy's Organic Kefir 32oz 2.99
Wallaby Lowfat Yogurt 6oz 5/$4
Earth Balance Buttery Spread 13oz 3.49
Nasoya Organic Tofu 8-16oz 1.99
Lightlife Smart Deli Slices 5.5oz 2.29
Immaculate Cookie Dough 14oz 3.29

Frozen Food
Rising Moon Organics Organic Pasta 8oz 2/$5
Amy's Lasagna 9.5-10.25oz 3.79
Natural Choice Organic Fruit Bars 6ct 3.79
Morning Star Hickort
BBQ Riblets 10oz 3.79
Quorn Meat Free Chik'n Nuggets 10.6 3.99

Non Food Items
Dr. Bronner Organic Liquid Soap 32oz 9.99
Natra Care Femine Care pads 10- 14ct 3.99

Wellness
Avalon Organic Shampoo or Conditioner 11oz 5.99
Alaba Botanical Sunscreen 4oz 6.99
South of France Bar Soap 8-8.8oz 3.79
Weleda Skin Food 2.5oz 11.99
Preserve Toothbrush 2.79
Boiron Arnicare Cream Value pack 2.6oz 9.99
Flora Floradix Iron + Herbs 8.5oz 21.99

Duck Tails and Bobby Sox

2010-03-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

Last night was a fun night for my kids and me. I like a good family night out that's more than heading to the movies or somewhere far and away out of town. I found a good evenings entertainment right here in Hillsborough. We went to the CW Stanford's spring theater production "Duck Tails and Bobbysox, A 1950's Rock Musical" Set in Andy's diner in roughly the mid 1950's, this show had lots to offer everyone in my family. When I say there was plenty for my entire family, I mean my five year old sat through the entire production, tapped his foot and sang a bit. My Middle school age kids thought it was cool to see their friends up on stage or playing in the "Pit" band.
My critical point of view though is I was impressed to see so much young talent. I didn't see anyone over acting their parts and there was only once I recognized a "flub." I could see much effort had been put into making this production peachy keen. For starters, upon entering the doors of the lobby I was met with a Menu and Milk Shake machine. The "menu" is a well designed play bill which hosts everything from "Signature Specials," "Goody's" and "Every Day Favorites." To set the tone of the 50's musical there were milk shakes for sale, provided by Andy's Hamburgers.
Inside the cafeteria, the stage was set with some of the best scenery I have ever seen at a middle school production. Either A, I haven't been to a good middle school production or B. CWS has lots talent drawing, and painting those sets, just know that I was impressed by what I saw last evening. If a mid 50's soda shop isn't enough to set things off, the costumes were more than impressive. There were girls wearing poodle skirts and saddle shoes, boys with greasy hair and leather coats. No soda shop would be complete without a roller skating table hop, and this production had it.
Considering this show is a musical, it wouldn't be complete without live music. The singers on stage were all accompanied by "Mary May and The Ducktails and Bobbysox Orchestra." They kept the beat going all evening long, so much so, that by the end of the show people were dancing in the isle. My youngest couldn't keep his feet still for most of the show, and there were plenty of times I could have broken into song and dance with the pit playing behind me. I think such gesture would have been inappropriate and down right embarrassing to the two middle school age childern in my house, after all they are the ones who have to go to school there.
I realize this is only a middle school play but there was lots of young growing talent on the stage. Because I don't want to offend anyone, I am not going to mention any names, you'll just have to go look for yourself. Just know that some can dance, and some can sing, and others can fight and cheer really well.
This was a fun production to watch and it was well worth it, milk shakes and all for my kids and me. I highly recommend catching this show before it closes. Head for Andy's Soda Shop located in the CW Stanford Cafeteria Friday or Saturday 7PM-9PM. The price for a family is $8, milk shakes are $2 and can be purchased before the show starts or during intermission.

Parents! College is in your Future.

2010-03-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

Today was a reflective day for me and probably most of the parents who were sitting in the library at CW Stanford Middle school. This morning parents were invited to a Counselors coffee Hour. This was the first one I have attended and since I have an 8th grader there I may as well go.
It turns out that not much has changed in the whole college world since I left college last semester. Looking around the room there were concerned looks on the faces of parents. The news that AP classes are the standard their kids must meet to be considered a viable applicant at college was scary. In addition there were the parents in the room who probably never stepped foot on a college campus....news to them the whole process is overwelming to anyone. Its even more to go through alone we you are only 18 years old.
The admissions couselor speaking to us today was a representive from UNC Chapel Hill. UNC CHapel Hill is perhaps one of the most sought after public colleges in the state. I realize being a Pirate I had to sit through her droning on about the tar heel blue but honestly she spoke about her personal expereince and I was right there with her. The experience navigating college admissions pretty much alone. Her experience was her choices in finding a college were limited. Her mother could only afford to visit near by colleges and she was only allowed to apply to one. I nearly cried hearing her story because it sounded so similar to my own. I was only allowed to visit near by schools, my step father was sick in the fall of my senior year and my college acceptance was the last thing on anyone mind but my own. My mother did manage to take to me a college fair and I was very excited. Then reality came, each of those applications I wanted to send off cost $30-$100 for submission. That vastly changed things for me. Several colleges I wanted to attend but at the time my parents simply didn't have the money. I widdled my list to a two colleges with $30 application fees, and held my breath. IF I were lucky I would get in. I actually did get into those two colleges, but my choices of colleges were limited simply because my parents at that point in time didn't have the money to allow me to apply to more than those two colleges. Today though I learned of a wonderful thing called Fee Waiver services from the College Board. The Fee Waiver service allows students to have their fees waived for the SAT, additionally students qualifying for this program can have application fees waived to up to Four colleges and major universities. For more information about this service for your family please visit http://sat.collegeboard.com/register/sat-fee-waivers
The other thing about colleges and universities are visiting. I know for many parents who've attended college in a previous life they want their little ones to attend their Alma mater. That's perfectly fine but believe it or not there's thousands of families with parents that never stepped foot on the campus of a four year university. Or your little darling has no desire to be go to the school you have a life long loyalty too. Its a far cry from the comfort of home and much different than commuting to community college. Visiting the campus of your child's choice is a big step. They might want to go to college with their friends and find that campus life at that college is suiting for them. As a parent you might learn that the college might be surrounded by a not so great neighbor hood, that off campus living isn't feasible. There's tons to consider when looking at living at a four year college. Visiting can help give you that feel. I was able to visit one college only after I had been accepted. One college I applied to I am sure to this day I didn't get in because I was unable to visit. Some larger universities make it easy, just drive over and park (in legal parking) walk the campus and see what's happening. Smaller colleges visitors stick out like sore thumbs so it might be best to call ahead or just drop and see what's happening. The most important thing use the Fall of the senior year to visit whatever college your child is planning to attend. Instead of that big vacation, plan a few weekend trips, take those teacher work days to see a college in full action.
The take away in all of this, if you have an 8th grader, or a child in High school is seriously considering a four year university get started now with visiting colleges and dont' let your ability to pay for testing and applications.

Babywearing cottage industry in trouble because of poor designs....

2010-03-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

Poor infant carrier designs by Major Manufactures parents trusted because of the Manufacturer.
This morning I was on my favorite parenting message board, Triangle mommies and came across a CPSC press release. I first reacted with anger. When my DS was little I wore in two slings, one i made myself and I bought from a reputable sling manufacturer, Kangaroo Korner. I remember researching slings and made a conscious decision to stay away from pack carriers like the Bjorn and "bag slings" I thought both might pose a safety risk to my then small infant.
My experience in the baby wearing community was one where Work at Home Moms and Large scale sling producers had their own standard. There were certain materials that were part of the standard, including Heavy Steel Rings, Heavy Nylon rings, Sewing and surging standards. These were primarily set by the manufactures who took pride in thier work and wanted repeat customers and recommendations. Their goals were not entirely bassed on profit.
Things that were avoided were massed produced slings and pack carriers. That included the recently recalled "Infantino Bag Sling." Across the web where baby wearing was discussed I cannot count the times that people were warned of overly massed produced baby carriers. The reasons were often because of construction that might uncomfortable for parents, or dangers to the baby being carried.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a statement demanding there be standards for these products. That's fine but when the product in question has been recalled numerous times, not from WAHM or other sling/carrier producers but from a single manufacture I feel like, as do many other baby wearing parents, the baby has been thrown out with the bath water.
Furthermore the CPSC is also issued a warning to parents of premature infants. Its been long known that Kangaroo care or baby wearing is extremely important in the development of these infants. Parents of Preemies often relied on WAHM slings to carry out the prescribed Kangaroo care. I feel like the CPSC has again gone to far in their warning and should be warning parents of specific sling designs, not just slings and baby wearing entirely.

Sling Manufactures have come against the Warning, read about it here.
http://indianapolis.momslikeme.com/members/JournalActions.aspx?g=246852&m=10754812&source=stream_rail

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2010
Release #10-165

CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Infant Deaths Prompt CPSC Warning About Sling Carriers for Babies

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is advising parents and caregivers to be cautious when using infant slings for babies younger than four months of age. In researching incident reports from the past 20 years, CPSC identified and is investigating at least 14 deaths associated with sling-style infant carriers, including three in 2009. Twelve of the deaths involved babies younger than four months of age.

Slings can pose two different types of suffocation hazards to babies. In the first few months of life, babies cannot control their heads because of weak neck muscles. The sling's fabric can press against an infant's nose and mouth, blocking the baby's breathing and rapidly suffocating a baby within a minute or two. Additionally, where a sling keeps the infant in a curled position bending the chin toward the chest, the airways can be restricted, limiting the oxygen supply. The baby will not be able to cry for help and can slowly suffocate.

Many of the babies who died in slings were either a low birth weight twin, were born prematurely, or had breathing issues such as a cold. Therefore, CPSC urges parents of preemies, twins, babies in fragile health and those with low weight to use extra care and consult their pediatricians about using slings.

Two months ago, the Commission added slings to the list of durable infant products that require a mandatory standard. Additionally, CPSC staff is actively investigating these products to determine what additional action may be appropriate. Until a mandatory standard is developed, CPSC is working with ASTM International to quickly complete an effective voluntary standard for infant sling carriers.

CPSC recommends that parents and caregivers make sure the infant's face is not covered and is visible at all times to the sling's wearer. If nursing the baby in a sling, change the baby's position after feeding so the baby's head is facing up and is clear of the sling and the mother's body. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant about frequently checking their baby in a sling.

CPSC is interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are directly related to infant slings. You can do this by visiting www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx or call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772.

Parent Teacher Organization Picking up Budget Cut Tab

2010-03-12T13:44:00.000-08:00

If you have ever wondered what exactly Parent Teacher Organizations (PTO) do, besides set up fund raisers and annoy you for membership this blog is about precisely that! There's more to the PTO than fund raisers and membership drives. The PTO encourages parents to get involved with the needs of the school In general, the PTO hosts fun events for the families of the school not only raise money but to provide community building opportunities. The PTGO at the school my youngest attends gives money to each of the teachers, departments, and to help off set the cost of field trip, pay for extra equipment. The ability to contribute to these needs are win win win for parents, teachers and most of all the students.

However, in these tough economic times it would seems that PTO's are playing a much more substantial role. Last night I sat through Cameron Park Elementary schools PTGO meeting. There was the usual discussion of "this is the budget" and "This is where our money is." I want lie I generally zone out during these discussions because frankly, I care enough not to listen. I know we made money, I know its going to be used for a good cause. Then came the old business of sending our 5th graders to the Poe Center. The annual field trip to the Poe Center in Raleigh is a huge deal for the 5th graders. The information shared at the Poe Center is part of Orange County school system's mandated curriculum. In the past, the county had always funded the annual trip. Most parents thought nothing of the trip, signed the permission trip form and off they went. I do recall doing a similar gesture when my step son attended last year. Not once do I believe it was questioned what exactly childern do at the Poe Center, nor do I think parents realized that the trip wasn't free.
Our principal, Dr.Rogers motioned for funds from the PTGO to pay for the field trip. There were some questions in the room as to what exactly happens at the Poe Center, and is there a less expensive route. The teachers were adamant about the value of the experience for 5th graders. Aside from the back and fourth comments between parents and teachers, what was being asked for was clear; The Budget cuts for the year had brought Dr. Rogers to us in a time of need. She had turned to the one organization that could help the with the needs of the students, the PTGO.
I have this feeling that Cameron Park isn't the only PTO in Orange county digging into their surpluses to cover budget short falls. I also wonder how schools are managing without an active PTO or schools that have parents that are financially strapped for money in their own households. Now you can stop wondering about the PTO at your child's school and get active. Show up to the meetings, plan the events, raise the money because chances are your child might lose a learning opportunity without your help.

Summer Camps North of 85

2010-03-05T13:34:00.000-08:00

Its that time of year when parents both stay at home and those who work are looking for summer camps. I was recently shocked when I picked up the February issue of Carolina Parent, to find that there were only a few camps listed for Orange county area. For me, the tasks of finding the right camp for each of my three kids seems a bit daunting. I have thought about working this summer and that would mean finding up to 12 weeks of summer camps for three kids. However, in digging around to find camps for 3 kids ages 5, 12, and 14 I have found a lot of camps by making phone calls, and looking for ads while I am out in about.
Also in making this list I was given a copy of the Herald Sun/ Chapel Hill Herald advertising supplement for Summer Camps 2010. This is a wonderful hard copy resource, and after reviewing it some of the camps I have found are also listed and some are not listed. I suggest using both resources.

Below you find camps for the area of Durham and Orange counties located just North of 85. I have included a quick synopsis of the camps offered, contact info, and a web link to details of the camps.

Triangle Sportsplex
The triangle sportsplex offers camps for Fun, Hockey, and Figure Skating.

The kid's plex camps are generally designed for extended care and would be a great option for working parents with school aged childern. The kid's plex camps are for childern age 5-14. Middle School age childern may opt for the Counselor in Training option.

http://www.trianglesportsplex.com/camps.htm

Also offered the at Sportsplex are a number of camps for both Hockey and figure skaters. These camps are hosted either from outside agencies or by Sportsplex staff. Age and experience before attending camp will be determined by the camp. Please visit the website below for more options.
http://www.trianglesportsplex.com/camps_hockey.htm
http://www.trianglesportsplex.com/camps_figure.htm

Summer Sizzle a Camp for just Middle School!
Camps based on agriculture, art and getting dirty were some of my favorite camps when I was a kid. The Orange county extension service is hosting "Summer Sizzle." This particular camp program is designed for Middle School age childern. The camps will run every week from June 28th to July 30th. Price per week is relatively affordable too, at just $100/week per child.

http://orange.ces.ncsu.edu/files/library/68/2010SSInfo-Reg.pdf

Dance Studio Camps

Faulkners new building location is just south of I-85. They are offering a variety of camps, Dance, Gymnastics, Cheer Camps. There will be 4 weeks of camps designed for ages 5 and up, and one very special week devoted to Princess Camp for ages 4 and up. Camp Prices are based on 1/4 , 1/2 and full day pricing.
For Camp Descriptions, Registration deadlines and session dates please call or visit their website.
(919) 732-7591

Faulkner's Dance and Gymnastic's Summer Camps

To the Pointe Dance school is offering several weeks of camps for ages 3 and up. If you are looking for a preschool dance camp, To The Pointe has it. The studio will as be offering intensive dance camps for the more experienced, and did I mention everything in between. Camp sessions prices are listed at Full day and half day prices. For more info and camp descriptions call:
919-732-5454
http://www.tothepointedance.com/

Daycare for K-5
In searching for camps for my 5 year old I wanted something that was reliable and consistent should he need to go to camp for the entire summer. Day cares are a great resource for consistent reliable care for summer, that is if your child is still in Elementary school. Day cares often offer camps that include multiple weekly field trips, play time, ect. The other benefit are they are offered on consistent basis through out the summer, rather than random sessions spread through out the summer.

Tiny Tots Day Care will be holding camp sessions at both Tiny Tots Locations. Camps will be limited to a small group of just 13 campers per session unlike other camps that normally host 30 or more campers per session. Camps are designed for childern ages 5-12. Campers can expect 3 field trips per week. Times will be from 7AM-5:30PM. There is no weekly commitment, parents can pay for as many weeks as they will need. Register before March 31st and receive a free campers T-shirt. The camps cost $130/wk and up to a $125 field trip fee. For more info Contact Tiny Tots at
tinytots@embarqmail.com

http://tinytotsandtinytotstoo.com/2.html

Kids Kountry on Roxboro Rd in Durham will be holding Full summer camp for grades k-6 starting in June. Kid's Kountry requires a commitment for every week of the summer. At $95/ week I find the price very affordable for a full time working parent looking for child care. Campers can expect swimming, field trips, roller skating ect. For more info Call or visit Kids Kountry.
(919) 471-2446
6129 North Roxboro Road, Durham, NC 27712-351

Masters Garden Preschool will be offering camps for K to 5th grade through out the summer and will include field trips, play time, arts and crafts, and out door activities. Camp will be held June 14th- August 20th and each week will have a specific them. In speaking with Mary Ann the coordinator for these camps other details such as field trip dates, registration fees, have not been fully set. Please keep an eye on there page for more Info.

7500 Schley Road

Hillborough, NC

919-732-3449

mgpreschool@embarqmail.com

http://www.ebenezeronline.net/index.php?action=page&page_id=40
.

Temple Baptist is holding half day camp sessions for pre-school age childern. Camps will run from 9:30- 12:30 each M-F. Each week will feature a different theme. There will be one session for each month of summer. Register early.
4504 Steriling Drive
Durham, NC
(919) 309-0050
templepreschooldurham@gmail.com
http://www.tbcdurham.org/mod/group/view.php?group_id=6

Brook's Day Care in Hillsborough, might also be holding Day camp for school age childern. When I inquired about the possibilities of camps the director told me she would make a decision based on the needs of her customers. Contact:
Kimberly Johnson
919-732-2633

Museum of Life and Science!
The Museum of Life and Science is hosting several camps sessions for childern age 4- Grade 8. Session Themes include, Bugs and Butterflies, Dinosaurs, Lego Robotics, Animals, Chemistry, Forensics, and Movement. From my understanding in the SAHM world these camps are very popular. Registration for these camps have already opened, so if you are thinking about doing one, get in quickly.
433 Murray Avenue, Durham, NC 27704
(919) 220-5429
http://www.ncmls.org/get-involved/camps-and-classes/summer-camp/durham

Horse Back Riding
If you have a son or daughter who loves horses, Northern Orange county is home to TWO horse back riding camps.

Five Star Farm is offering the choice between residential or day camp. In addition to horse back riding, campers can expect small group sizes, swimming, one on one lessons, their own horse. Residential camps are limited to 12 campers each session. Camps will be offered for 10 weeks over the summer, and campers can do as many weeks as they would like. Camps are designed for childern age to 5-15. Offers both drop off and pick up in downtown Hillsborough and Chapel Hill for free. Early registration discount for campers registered before April 1st.
http://www.fivestarfarmnc.com/?n=4

Echo Creek Riding Center is holding camps based on horse rider skill level. There is also a "little legs camps" designed for young riders age 4-7. This camp is located off Hwy 57 out of Hillsborough and is home to the Duke University Equestrian team. For more information about the camps please send an email or leave a message
919-732-5106
ginny@echocreekriding.com
http://echocreekriding.com/camps.php

Rec Department Camps
Recreation Departments in both Orange and Durham counties are holding multiple camp sessions this summer and summer camps for just bout every age.

Orange county Parks and Rec is holding camps at a variety of locations including, Efland Cheeks Community Center, Central Recreation, and Eurosport Soccer Complex. Most of the camps offered are aimed at 7 year old through age 12. There are a few camps for the older childern. For those of you looking for something ABSOLUTELY FREE, check out the Junior Mini Police Academy. This camp is free, but registration for it has already opened, and will probably fill up fast so act quickly. Its aimed at rising 5th-11th grade. Please visit the website for more information on each camp.

http://www.co.orange.nc.us/recparks/Camps.asp

Durham Parks and Rec is holding multiple camps for childern age 5- 12 (note from website "Child cannot turn 13 before camp ends and must have been five by September 1, 2009. Proof of age (birth certificate) is required for all camp registrations." ) These camps must be EXTREMELY popular. If you are in the North Durham area and you want your school age child to attend please read the website carefully. Registration for these camps begin and end on March 20th at the Day camp site of your choice.
http://www.ci.durham.nc.us/departments/parks/summer_camp.cfm

School Based Camps
The public schools of Durham and Orange county will be holding camps for every week of summer. These camps will be held at a variety of public school locations.

Orange County Public Schools will be holding camps each week starting June 21st and ending August 6th. Brochures and registration details will be sent home with Orange County public school students at the end of March. Sites include Central Elementary, Grady Brown Elementary and New Hope Elementary. Camps are limited to a Maximum of 60 campers per site each week. Registration for these camps require a two week minimum commitment but do not have to be consecutive. Registration Deadline is June 10th, but please register early because space is limited. Brochures for these camps should be sent home with your students before spring break. The cost is $130/ week along with a $30 registration fee.

http://www.orange.k12.nc.us/support_services/s_c_relations/summercamp.htm

Career Academy for Rising 9th Graders
Camp for all rising 9th graders in Orange County School system. Camp dates are June 21-24th from 8:15AM- 3PM. Students will explore careers in collaboration with Durham Technical Community College, Alamance Community College, and NCCU. Transportation and Registration are Free
For more information Please contact
Patricia Harris
919-245-4012
patricia.harris@orange.k12.nc.us

iWalk The Eno Camp. Free Camp for students Entering the 6th Grade.
Science and Nature camp open to students in orange county schools entering the 6th grade. Registration is free but students must submit and application with personal statement and 5th grade teacher recommendation by March 26th. Applications can be found in the "Orange County Schools Summer camps and Opportunities Brochure." or visit the website for more information.
http://www.iwalktheeno.org/iWalk/About_iWalk.html

Yout Voices
A summer where youth ages 15-19 can earn money while developing leadership skills, providing community service, and work projects that will benefit Northern Orange county. The program runs for 6 weeks from June 21-July 30. Application Deadline is May 28, 2010.
For more information Contact:
Iris Fuller
245-2057
Orange County 4-H
306-E Revere Rd
Hillsborough, NC 27278

Durham County Public Schools. There is a print brochure available with full description of camps held at each Durham county public school sites. Locations include Eno Valley, Hope Valley, Spring Valley, and South West. Registration has already opened, and DCPS is offering free t-shirts to all campers who register before April 1st. Parents may register either in four week blocks or by the week. The fees for the camps varies depending on how you plan to register. Weekly plans start at $130/ week. For more information view the brochure at the link below.
http://www.dpsnc.net/images/pdf/community-education/summer-camp-brochure

Camps Just south of here..but not too far.

There are several camps I found that are just a hop and skip from the area. Additionally, some these camps provide the an option to go day camp or residential. I think these might be a great option for kids who want to try a sleep away camp but aren't sure, they could easily commute if over night wasn't working for them.

Camp Chestnut Ridge
Located in Efland is just south of 85. This camp is run by the NC United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries, Inc. Your childern can expect lots and lots of activities from swimming, canoeing, playing, even a ZIP LINE. This particular camp offers many camps for ages ranging from Completed K-11th grade. In my house this is excellent, and for those of you have a high school age childern who are having a hard time finding something "extra" for them to do this summer. For more info Please visit the website or give them a call. Please note registration has already begun and the dead line is May 1st.
919.338.2820 office 866.372.5801

Chestnut Ridge Camp and Retreat Center, 4300 Camp Chestnut Ridge Road, Efland, NC 27243
http://www.campchestnutridge.org/index.php/summer-camp/12-summer-camp-2009

New Hope Camp and Conference Center
This camp is offering both day and residential camps, with three different choices of camps to choose from. Camp choices include day camp, traditional residential camp, and MADD camp (with an emphasis on Music, acting, dance, and drama) Residential camps are from Raising 5ht grade and up, Day camps are for Children K-6th. According the website there is an "early Bird" special if you register before April 1st but this is a popular camp and sessions fill up quickly. For more info please call or visit their website.
Phone: 919-942-4716
New Hope Camp & Conference Center
4805 N Carolina 86 Chapel Hill, NC 27514
http://www.newhopeccc.org/daycamp.shtml

Carolina Friends School
Camps will be held on the Carolina Friend school campus. I have in hand a brochure and they are offering just about every type of day camp one could come up with. Examples of camps include art, dance, theater, robotics, engineering and sports. These camps are designed for ages 4-15. Please visit their website to pick the camp that is right for your child.
4809 Friends School Rd, Durham, NC
919-384-9089
http://www.cfsnc.org/page.cfm?p=611

If you are in North Durham there's a few "just south of here" camps that might peek your interest. The Durham YMCA, and Duke University are offering lots of different camps and camp sessions.

The Durham YMCA
The YMCA will be holding day camp at multiple locations. Camps will be geared for childern age 3-Rising 10th grade. Sessions will be offered through out the summer and might include such activities as sports, art, play, drama, ect. Registration for YMCA members opens March 15th, and for the general public on April 12th. Registration is due no later than the Thursday prior to camp.
Give them a call at 919- 667-9622 or visit them
http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Durham_YMCAs/Programs/Youth/Summer_Day_Camp.aspx

Duke University is offering many camps this summer. IT seems they have something for every child. Duke will have sports camps for Baseball, Field Hockey, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Soccer, Wrestling and more. Please see this article for more details. Some camps have commuter pricing alone with residential prices.
http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=4200&ATCLID=152163

Duke will also have many academic and arts camps including, Biotechnology, Computer, Drama, Writing, ect. One of the camps is aimed exclusively at young women. Please visit the link below.
http://www.learnmore.duke.edu/youth/

Disclaimer: Please note that this information is as correct as possible after reading, compiling the information from websites, and phone calls. Information may change without prior notice, so please use this resources as a guide to finding a summer camp for your child. Also please note that I do not personally endorse any of the camps listed and have not been paid to list these camps on this website.

Yes, faking can lead to success.

2010-03-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

So life here in Northern Orange county can be as busy as anyone desires. For me its a combination of many things that includes hockey, camps, school, social functions, working out, you name it I have no trouble keeping busy if I do desire to be busy. It seems like every day I can find something to productively or non productively spend my time. Recently, its been the Summer camps list I am working so hard to bring to this blog and hopefully by this weekend the list will be comprehensive enough to bring to you, the reader. Other things have kept me busy in a different way, and one way has lead to an accidental discovery. While the discovery probably is more widely known to other people, this discovery well means telling a story of how I uncovered it for myself.

While I don't consider myself a wonder woman or domestic executive, I do consider myself rather good at appearing good at both and many times unintentionally. I generally appear to have all the answers when my kids need them and things look pretty organized and easy going from the outside. Earlier this week I was faced with a problem that lead to both appearing to be wonder woman and powerful domestic executive. It starts one thing that every one deals with, LAUNDRY. We all have it, and I haven't met one person who actively loves the details of moving this task along, stain removal, folding technique, or the mundane sorting....(okay maybe a 3 year old who's just discovered the difference between colors and dark). In general laundry is all done the same in my house, its washed as one load in warm water with some sort of natural Laundry detergent. Even the stains, should any show up are often ignored and might get pre-treated should the notion strike me. Sometimes, I get extra inspired or disgusted (haven't really pin pointed this yet) by the dingy whites and I might turn the washer to Hot water, and add a Cup of Clorox to the wash.
Enough, about how I actually do laundry lets get to that discovery I made about laundry, and my ability to appear rather wonder woman like. My Step daughter came to me this past weekend distraught. Her favorite flannel pajama pants and hoodie she'd borrowed from a friend at school had gum on them. She said and I quote "Some how a piece of gum got into my bed, and I don't know how." I'll stop the discussion on my discovery for this topic. Chances are her obsessive teenage girl gum chewing is the reason gum mysteriously got into her bed and ended up all over her clothes. Now being the mother figure of the house (did mention in all of this that she's responsible for washing and folding 90% of the laundry in the house) she comes to me wanting me to remove the gum because somehow laundry care is an inate trait a woman gains once given birth to childern. Of course not knowing the first thing about how to get rid of the gum from her clothes, I play on past experiences from my life when I was child (not motherhood). I immediately think of the morning when I was 5 years old. I woke up one morning before school with bubble gum stuck all over me. I had gum in my long (and I mean waist length hair) to boot. My mother rubbed by hair with Peanut butter, and my hair was peanut butter free in no time. A little White Rain shampoo, and Viola! I was ready for school.
That previous experience, not that innate trait giving to me because of labor pains, led me to instructing my step daughter to get the peanut butter. She was upset and the idea of doing this herself was too much, so I "tabled" the clothes for a later time, like when I might be willing to test this past experience idea on these beloved clothes. Tabling the clothes also has an added and unintended benefit. These happen to be those favorite clothes that her father and I get tired of seeing her wear. So for me, I wouldn't have to hear her dad and her go rounds over the "dirty pants and disgusting hoodie."
Monday, I put the peanut butter on the gum, and well the results were: nothing happened immediately or at least I couldn't tell it was working. The gum wasn't coming off simply because I'd spread on peanut butter, and that left me a bit stressed. Lord knows I cannot tell a 14 year old girl that I had failed miserably at removing gum, one item being her favorite and the second, something that belong to someone else. She was depending on me to work some sort of womanly miracle In that moment I thought to myself "I'll have to let this sit a while, until I figure out what to do." That same day my step daughter came to me and asked "How's the gum removal going." I did what any caring mother would do for a child..I told her the truth. "It has to sit a while." You darn right it had to sit awhile! I has no idea how the heck that gum was going to come out of those clothes. The only thing I could keep thinking was she was going to be upset and I'd have to pick that gum fiber by fiber out her clothes (okay not really, I don't have that much time on my SAHM while kids are in school hands.) However, that's just what those clothes did. They sat a top the washer while I thought of something else to do until yesterday. When I realized I hadn't thought of anything. Actually, I had not thought of dealing with clothes at all on Tuesday, and here it was Wednesday. Those clothes now not only had gum on them but they now had crusted Smart Balance Peanut butter on them too. Considering, I wash just about everything in the house the same, and those clothes at this point were ruined, I put them in the washer. What else was I supposed to do! Hand wash them and pick gum out of the fibers? Today, I returned to the washer and it was like Christmas morning. I wanted to see what I had gotten. I got a huge and wonderful surprise, those clothes were clean. Even more remarkable than them being free of gum after the wash, there are no visible grease spots from the peanut butter.
Personally, I am impressed with what I found. Secondly, only today have I read about methods to remove gum. A little late for research? Perhaps. Did it matter? Only if the gum hadn't come out in the first place? For the purposes of this blog however, I found some links to other gum removal methods. Thrifyfun Wikihow . None of the suggestions include just peanut butter and waiting nearly 2 days to wash the clothing. In fact, everything I have read seems pretty labor intensive, even for someone who has extra time on their hands, and wants to appear to be able to solve world hunger.
What have a learned from all of this. I discovered a rather passive and labor less way of removing gum from clothing. My Step Daughter will be thrilled that she can once again wear her PJ pants until they take on some sort of life of their own and walk around by themselves. The hoodie will be returned to its rightful owner, not only free of gum by with the light smell of lavender and a bit of added softness. Finally, my faking the ability to be a wonder woman of laundry lead to success!

New Low Prices at Food Lion.

2010-02-25T05:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I went to Food Lion for my weekly pre-shop of unadvertised deals and to pick up the weekly sales flier. What met me at the front was "NEW LOWER PRICES." Apparently, the higher ups at food lion has decided to slash every day prices on the most popular items. One example is Manwhich, reduced from a $1.98 to .98 and another is bananas from .68/lb to .50/lb.
With the excitement over Food Lion slashing prices I had to ask the manager about one thing that has been bugging me for a long time about Food Lion. That one thing was Food Lion's policy on Buy One Get One Free. Its been more than a year since I last asked, and I quit buying BOGO items because they didn't ring up half off. I couldn't help but ask again since I have been shopping at Harris Teeter for the past few months. The manager gladly told me and this is HUGE for all future shopping trips. Items Do Ring Up Half Off on BOGO free specials.
Something for all area shoppers to remember about our Food Lions in Hillsborough, there specials aren't always the same as the specials in North Durham. Keep that in mind before picking up a Sales Flier at a North Durhams store. There's also some great websites that match up specials with coupons, my favorite is Southern Savers This website is great, however some prices are often lower. I don't know where the bloggers on Southern Savers are located but I can betcha they aren't even close to this area. While doing match ups from their website, make sure to cross check. I might in the future do Coupon and Sales match ups directly from our own area sales flier to take so much of the work out of it for everyone else.
In the very near future keep a watch out for a price book of Lowe's Foods, Kerr Drug, Food Lion, and Weaver Street Market.

Weekend Weather, means time to get to know your history.

2010-02-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

The forecast this weekend is supposed to be sunny with Highs in the 40's.:Saturday Forecast I am looking forward to getting out of the house without worry of slipping on ice, or the prospect of snow and all the mess that goes with either.
In my house most weekends means bundling up to go watch our Middle child Play hockey. I have yet to understand this game but its not really for me to understand, just me to support the child who is interested. However, with the weekend weather being so nice I am planning a family outing hosted by Historic Down Town Hillsborough.
During the Revolutionary war Hillsborough was occupied by both the Contenetial Army and the British Army . On Saturday Feb 20th from 10AM- 4PM the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough will be hosting a revolutionary war reenactment of Cornwallis time spent in Hillborough.
I have never been to a war reenactment and since this one happens to be right down from my house I am taking the kids out for a day of history. They don't know it yet, but they are looking forward to Cannon firings, Musket demonstrations, and Open flame cooking. They also don't know that we'll see General Cornwallis wishing he'd never strode into Hillsborough.
The weather seems to be perfect for such an event. I might even do my own reenacting by bringing a picnic basket like the first Revolutionary war watcher did at Lexington and Concord. I think I might actually get to eat my picnic where as those first on lookers probably thought "O' Holy Hell, This fight is for real."
For more info on this event please visit.
http://www.historichillsborough.org/database/pagemaker.cgi?1266248260

Super Doubles and Super Coupon Clipping

2010-02-16T09:14:00.000-08:00

There was a feeling that came across the message boards last week. The question that hangs on any frugal shoppers mind that lives within driving distance of a Harris Teeter, "When were triple coupons coming back? What about Super Doubles?" It iss a reasonable question. Harris Teeter has made us all very spoiled with super coupon deals, the last event was in January. Confirmation of Super Doubles came out last Thursday with coupon match ups on Southern Savers .
For anyone who's never used coupons before there's no quicker way to an addictive hobby than hit one of Harris Teeters super doubles or Triples sales. Imagine that $1.50 coupon sitting in the Sunday paper is now worth WHOPPING $3.00 or that .50 cents coupon could be worth as much as $1.50 off. The first time I did Super Doulbes I had a grand total of ONE Sunday paper and still managed two shopping trips saving more than 75% off the retail price. I was hooked from that point forward.
I am fairly new to using coupons but I am not new however to organizing things in streamline easy to use fashion. I use Southern Savers to do most of my work for me. The blog has most of the weekly deals and coupon match ups. All I need to do is decide what i want to buy, and if I have a coupon for it.
I have printed the shopping list and now I have to decide which 20 coupons I want to use first. Would be it be weird if I walked into the store will 20 coupons doubling to FREE! Talk about a bout a rush, probably better than any illegal drug could give a person. The ideal of getting 20 items simply because I bough a few Sunday Papers. In case you are wondering since this is an Orange County blog, which paper I get. I usually get the Herald Sun. Its .50 less than the News and Observer and they generally have the same coupons as the N&O. Plus without it how am I supposed to blog about the area. ;)
So my strategy is to clip my coupons, organize them into two or three trips, and then head to the store. In the past I have noticed there's "popular" items and then not so popular items. The "Free" items always go fast and they are rarely there come Saturday. Considering, that I am spending last weeks food budget this Wednesday, I am going for the freebies first. Next will be my organic stuff. I like to buy organic but usually only with a coupon. I have to do it this way other wise my family would eat beans and rice 5 days a week and we'd never see a piece of meat or dairy.
So for this week, head to North Durham with your fist full of coupons and stock up!

Today I make over my blog, tomarrow there'll be more!

2010-02-11T07:13:00.000-08:00

Today is the first of many blog entries. I live here in Orange county, and aside from our beloved Orange county news paper and a few websites it can be difficult to find out what exactly is happening right here. Either, the locals are in the known about the local Brunswick stew sale, or the newbies are completely clueless about the shindig in Schley. Regardless I am here to help.
I am not a native of Orange county. I have lived here about a year and a half. My kids attend school here and my husband works for the county. I am thinking while i do nothing all day but keep the house clean, go shopping and drive childern around I may as well do my part to contribute to society.
Things you can expect from me as your read my blog, first and foremost SHOPPING and Couponing. Its a small obsession of mine. The other thing is I shop like many of yall at the local Food Lion. I'll be the first to raise my hand as I have realized that half of the things on sale within those store walls are not even listed in the paper. Consider me your "unadvertised" sale source. I will also give you the inside tract to the Food Lion "mysteries" such as those printable coupons on their website, and can you by just one of the BOGO items and get half off the price. Another msytery I recently solved, was some sales in Northen DUrham do not translate here in the OC. So keep that in mind. Food Lion isn't the only place to shop. I do like to hit Lowe's food, and make the drive to Harris Teeter on occasion.
Another thing you can expect are community school fundraiser events. We all love our local schools (to some extent right) and what better way to help our childern grown than to support fund raising efforts. IT helps when EVERYONE in the community is well aware of them and I hope to bring them all to you, as best I can.
The next thing are the three F's. FREE FAMILY FUN! Lets be real here when you have a family, family fun time better come cheap or its not happening without breaking the budget. I would like to share free or nearly free family events for everyone. These things tend to pop up and without prior planning its hard to get out of the house.
Some extra stuff you might find here are some helpful parenting tips, that only a mom with 2 step kids an one Biological child can give. Ideas on weight loss, and what fun outdoor places you can escape to. Quick road trip ideas, and a few political soap boxes.

A Potato and One Random act of Kindness

2009-12-11T06:29:00.000-08:00

Today I was suddenly inspired to make Brunswick stew. I bought a pork roast last week and I a lot left over after making BBQ sandwhiches last night.
After going over the list of ingredients I needed one thing to make the stew, and that was 1lb of diced potatoes. Today being busy with trying to finish the last of my college education I decided to wait until I picked my middle child up from school this afternoon. Its also the end of the week for grocery shopping so we had no money in that account. My only resolve was to scrap up a dollar in change and buy a can of potatoes.
I had also hoped to have enough change for a can of evaporated milk to use as coffee creamer until Saturday when our shopping week started over again.
I went down the isle where the the canned potatoes were, with my handful of change only get to get sticker shock .99 cent for a can of potatoes. I had a $1 in change and a few pennies, plus there was no chance of my coffee creamer.
I head off to the produce department. I found the fresh potatoes, they were only .89 cent/lb. I got the largest one there and weighed it. It was just at a pound. I could live that, I could at least avoid the embarrassment of not having enough money for a SINGLE can of potatoes.
I went straight to the cashier. There was a lady in line in front of me. She glanced back at me and looked at the counter. I had a single potato, and all I could think was how I couldn't get the milk I wanted too. The cashier rings up the lady's order, and the lady says "Get her's too." I nearly fell over. I realize this potato was less than a dollar but wow.
Its not every day people go out of their way for someone else, and when they do it might just have a HUGE impact.
The Cashier was floored. She couldn't believe it, and wanted to know if we were friends. We both told her, "No" and she began to cry. She told both the lady (at this point i got her name) that she'd restored her faith in humans.
I just wanted to share this most moving gesture with everyone. I told her I couldn't thank her enough and I'd certainly pass it on and I wouldn't forget.

What if??

2009-06-12T05:29:00.000-07:00

The crush of the Economy is being felt in my house as it is in EVERY home in America. At this point we are middle middle class Americans. I stay home, DP works 40 hours for the local government. We do what we can and sometimes we simply have to put things off for many months. Unexpected expenses really strain our budget and often things are re prioritized. I know there's millions of middle middle class Americans out there in a similar situation. We don't make enough money to have a cushy savings, yet we aren't poor enough to qualify for social assistance.
Recently a Deer jumped out in front of the van and broke one of the headlights. For some families its as simple as loading up the Credit card, or just going and paying cash out of the Emergency fund for a new light, others might actually carry full coverage on their 10 year old vehicle. We however don't have that luxury at the current moment, but it did get me thinking. What if there was a small fund that everyone in my community contributed to..willingly of course, where expenses such as a broken head light could be easily remedied, if someone needed to pay for a prescription their insurance doesn't cover, maybe this spring your funds are short and paying for your child to play Baseball would mean making sacrifices on food. This fund as I see it would help.

I realize there's plenty of Charities out there and social programs for low income families but the beauty of my idea is that its for those who do in fact live above poverty, but simply have to put off the little things in order to make the big ones happen (college, paying off debt, mortgage ect). In my head this "Fund" would be localized within a small community and would be aimed at costs that are under $500, and the demographics to support are those who live above poverty.

I was just thinking WHAT IF???

The Scale Demon must leave

2009-05-27T04:46:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to lose weight for a little over a year. Being overweight has plagued me for most of my life. I was bigger than other kids when I was a kid, and as a Teen I was in the "too fat to be pretty." club.
I spent from age 12 until about 17 coming up with CRAZY crash diets to drop four or five pounds only to gain them back and then some. I will not post the details of some of the "Diets"...lets simply say they didn't work for the long term.
Last year after several attempts to make weight loss stick after having my son, I finally decided to go with a "eat anything you want, but keep the portions under control" life style. I don't count it as a diet, I simply decided to stop eating a side of beef with a two liter of soda. I also took a bit from my house keeping guru "THE FLYLADY". I have taken weight loss and a healthier life style in baby steps. I want to lose weight, but I want to be healthy for the rest of my life. I can only achieve both through education and behavior modification.
In the past year I have learned some things that might help the rest of the world and hopefully will help me learn more to keep the weight off for good.
1. Skip the Mayonnaise. I realize you can weigh mayonnaise and keep the portions under control but at nearly 100 calories per serving its simply not worth it.

2. Smaller Portions are filling. I think too often we've been served ENORMOUS portions of food and think to ourselves "No way is a Cup of Cereal and Banana going to get me going for Breakfast." and surely it does and then some!

3. 20 minutes can be the difference between Binge, and satisfaction. When I am hungry or my blood sugar drops to where I feel like I might pass out I tend to over eat. A while back I decided to wait twenty minutes after a reasonably sized portion of food (that is weighed on scale) before getting seconds or desert. This rule has helped me realize my body doesn't need to be over stuffed, it needs time to catch up.

4. Working out probably will not help you lose weight, but it will certainly help the shape of the flabby body. This was a hard realization for me. Yes, you do burn calories, but more than likely those Carole's are eaten back. However, where my legs used to be flabby they have some sort of definition and my arms are actually toned. I can actually RUN.

5. Real weight loss and fitness does not happen in 30 days as many diet and exercise gadgets claim. Yes, you can lose weight and get shape fairly quickly, but if you do not learn the skills to maintain the lifestyle for a healthy body in that time then you've done it all for nothing. Its going to take several more years for me to learn everything I need to know to maintain my current life style.

6. You have to have mini goals. Big goals are wonderful but without some small mile stones along the way those larger goals can be nearly impossible to reach. In the past my mini goals have been "Run a Full Mile", "Lose 4lbs before summer," "Work out Three days a week". Each of these goals have gotten me further along in the over all idea. I cannot run a 5K without running a Mile, I cannot lose 40lbs without losing 4 more pounds, my over all fitness and stamina will suffer without working out.

Right now I have been trying to get 5 to 10lbs to move before summer getss here. Its just 25 days a way. No i want havea bikini body or even a swim suit body, but I'll be 5 to 10lbs lighter than I was last summer. I really need the scale to move as its been stuck on the same number for the past 3 weeks.

A rental garden

2009-05-20T08:17:00.000-07:00

Every year I am faced with the same problem, gardening season comes a long and I get this "farmer's child itch." With that every year my loving DP reminds me that we are renting and we cannot go digging up the yard for a huge garden that has the potential to feed us year round. This year has been extra tough. We live a wonderful rental with a huge lot, and LOTS of shade. The trees are a welcoming oasis in the summer time, but not so much if I plan on growing anything.

The opening in the Trees right above the deck.

My resolve is growing everything in containers. A month ago I went out into the shed to take stock of everything we had only to find we'd left most of our large containers in the mountains. I was sad, we'd just started making back our initial investment from those containers. At that point I was just going to give up, and spend the rest of the summer hunting down cheap tomatoes, and zucchini.

My DP had other intentions, I came home from a wonderful mother's day picnic to find that he'd bought me all of the plants I needed for a my garden. He knows how much I love growing my own food. (who wouldn't, it tastes a 1000 times better than anything at the grocery store) Then he asked me where the containers were. I had to tell him the news about our old containers. He was disappointed and recommended we ask our land lords if we could plant in the ground. The problem however there's not one spot in our yard the receives a full 6 hours of sun. The only place that meets that condition is our back deck. I told him my plans to do containers again, even though in years past we'd had so so results.

We made a plan and I went shopping, only to have my head explode at the sheer cost of new containers. We bought our first containers using a gift card and some we'd gotten for free from various sources. There was no way I was paying $10 for a 5 gallon plastic "Flower pot" made in China. I told DP while we were looking that I was off to search the store of an "alternative."

My thinking was any large plastic container would do as long as I put enough holes in the bottom, along with a few inches of gravel. I found some 10 gallon rope handle tubs and one large Rubbermaid tub. I took them home and drilled about 15 holes in the Rope tubs and 40 or more holes in the Rubbermaid tub.

Here are a few pictures of the final results.

Zucchini and Peppers in Rubbermaid tub. Tomato in 10 gallon Rope tub

Just a Little Jam

2009-05-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

To put it frankly I am back to blogging and I am not stopping this time. Between my Step son moving in, and me going back to school I have been SUPER busy. I am back.

Today I made homemade strawberry Jam. My venture into Jam making started last spring. My DP being very aware of my desire to DYI, bought me twelve diamond pleated Ball Jelly jars and Sure Jell Pectin.

I wanted to make some strawberry jam, but as it was in the Mountains, I couldn't find any U-pick strawberries.
So this year I got the jump on finding strawberries and there happened to be a patch just 5 miles from my home. A HUGE score at $1.25/ pound. After I got my strawberries home I told the kids they could have one basket

they could have one basket the rest were for Jam.

I made my jam using the instructions for Cooked Jam, inside the Sure Jell Box. It took me about two hours total, because my canning pot took a while to boil, but the results so far are 8 gorgeous jars of Strawberry Jam. Made with 100% All natural ingredients.

Happy New Year, and a No Spend Challenge

2009-01-02T05:15:00.000-08:00

I took some time off this past Christmas season to be with my family. I hope everyone that reads my blog has done the very same. I want to go back to a topic I started earlier in December about saving money. It is very true our economy is in a recession and how we got where we are, can be blamed on a number of factors. One factor that effects everyone is our own personal spending. For too long many of us have lived beyond our means, we relied on credit to pay bills, make home repairs, buy a new car. You name it someone has probably paid for it with Credit card.
While I consider myself frugal in many ways, and my DP ranks pretty high on the frugality list, we too are known to spend money we truly shouldn't be spending. I am making it my personal challenge this month to spend as little as possible, and have even challenged many people to a "NO SPEND" month. Its a bit of diet for the bank account, but rather than losing we want our bank accounts to gain.
In this particular month we have a birthday, two cars that need repairs, plus state inspections, and not to mention the last hanging holiday get together that must have food bought. Why would I put myself to a No Spending Challenge if I there's no possible way to go without spending money? First of all to see how well I can actually spend money on necessities, and number two to quit spending money on things I usually waste money to buy. I am notorious for spending "Just $2 on Coffee", and Just $10 at the dollar store, and buying things for the house that shouldn't be bought. One expense that I am keeping in check this month is our Homeschooling bill. Seeing how much I love doing Montessori in the home, I can spend about $50 a month buying supplies. Its not that I Need the supplies, its just in that moment of inspiration when I see them on the store shelf that I buy them. As a result I have nearly two cabinets FULL of supplies. I have made a personal commitment to not buying any more supplies this month.
My other pit fall is expensive food, and this includes buying take-out. I don't know how many times I have been too lazy too cook, and too tired to hear the complaining from the kids about what's for dinner. Not this month though, I am doing everything in my power not to eat out under any circumstances, no even for my DP's birthday (We'll be having a steak dinner, if I can find steak on red label special)
Day one of my little no spending adventure cost me a grand total of $37 plus gas. We went to visit one of my DP's co-workers, and rather than showing up empty handed I came bearing tons of food. This is a trade mark of mine, I HATE showing up anywhere empty handed, and being a bit old fashioned I certainly had to impress my DP's co-worker if "All" I do is stay at home.
Today is day two, and so far I haven't spent any money, in fact after coming home from the grocery store yesterday I gave DP our debit card for safe keeping. We do have plans to go out of town for several days, and we have set a strict budget for this particular trip. The way I see it if I can figure out a way to spend as little money as possible on a three day trip I probably have something to brag about it once the month is over.

I am sure readers are wondering; If you aren't spending money this month, you'll probably just move on to next month and spend the money you save.". That's not the plan at all, personally I am hoping to figure out where it is that I spend too much extra money to begin with, and i hope to figure out a way to motivate myself away from expensive convinces like fast food and coffee house coffee.
I have challenge for all of my readers to try and not spend money this month. This doesn't include not spending money on essentials. We have to have food, water, lights, gas in the car ect. However, there's plenty we don't need and that' s where the no spend comes in this month. If any thing keep a diary of your daily spending. You might see some shocking truths about your spending behavior.

Good luck

Back to the Casserole Dish

2008-12-04T17:15:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is gone and the turkey is still here. Tonight I bring a special treat to all of my fellow Domestic Engineers. As if turkey salad, turkey Chili, turkey and rice soup, and turkey sandwiches weren't enough here's one more recipe to glean from the carcass of the turkey.
This little creation was quick, about 35 minutes to prepare from start to finish.

Ingredients
2 cups of cooked Turkey
1/2 cup Sweet Peas (canned or frozen)
3 Medium Potatoes (Diced)
1 cup Diced Carrots
1/2 medium Onion
1/2 Cup Flour
2 cups of Turkey Broth
1/2 cup Milk
Salt and Pepper

Topping
2 cups All Purpose Flour
2 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp salt
2/3 cup Shortening
1/4 cup to 1 cup of Milk

In a medium sauce pan bring 3 to 5 cups of Water to a boil. Add salt, Carrots, Potatoes. Cook until tender. Mean while prepare the roux.

Preparing the roux
In a small skillet over low heat add Turkey Broth. Whisk in Flour until smooth. Bring to a boil and add milk, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and sit aside.

Preparing the topping.
Combine Flour, Baking Powder, and Salt. With a fork cut in shortening until the mixture looks like corn meal. Add in enough milk to make the mixture sticky. Set aside

In a large casserole dish combine Turkey, Roux, and Vegetables. Add salt and pepper to taste. Top with Biscuit dough topping and bake at 400 degree F until bubbling (about 15 minutes)

The beauty of this recipe is that you can subsitute the Turkey and Turkey broth with Chicken or beef. Its very versatile and is very filling on evenings when you are strapped for time and everyone just needs a bit of comfort food.