Our Desert Living

2014-10-24T21:53:00.002-07:00

I apologize for not posting on this blog for a very very long time! Lots have definitely happened. Here are my other two blogs that you can check out now that I am starting again! This blog has left my life and a new chapter has started! Happy Blogging!

http://ranchopalosverdesca.blogspot.com

http://palosverdesreagent.com

Peanut Butter Recall

2012-09-24T21:27:00.001-07:00

It is scary to think of peanut butter having such a huge recall. Especially when we (as parents) constantly give our children peanut butter for the protein and nutrition. But as a mom I want to make sure all my other friends and family know what is going on.

Here is an article on the latest news.

— A New Mexico-based company has recalled 76 types of peanut butter and almond butter after a product it sold to Trader Joe's groceries was linked to a salmonella outbreak.

Sunland Inc. recalled the products under multiple brand names after the Food and Drug Administration and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention linked 29 salmonella illnesses in 18 states to Trader Joe's Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter.

Trader Joe's recalled the Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter from its stores on Saturday after consultation with the FDA and the CDC. Coburn said the FDA is currently inspecting Sunland's plant in Portales, N.M.

Those sickened reported becoming ill between June 11 and Sept. 2, according to the CDC. More than three-fourths of those who became ill were children under the age of 18. No deaths have been reported.

Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 hours to 72 hours after infection. It is most dangerous to children, the elderly and others with weak immune systems.

Brand names included in the recall are Archer Farms, Earth Balance, Fresh & Easy, Heinen's, Joseph's, Natural Value, Naturally More, Open Nature, Peanut Power Butter, Serious Food, Snaclite Power, Sprouts Farmers Market, Sprout's, Sunland and Dogsbutter. Two additional Trader Joe's products are also included in the expanded recall—Trader Joe's Valencia Peanut Butter with Roasted Flaxseeds and Trader Joe's Almond Butter with Roasted Flaxseeds.

No other Sunland or Trader Joe's products are included in the recall

manufactures and packages the Trader Joe's product.

Sunland spokeswoman Katalin Coburn said the company recalled the other peanut and almond butters because they were manufactured with the same equipment as the Trader Joe's product. None of the other products have been linked to illnesses.

Amazon.com: News on California Taxes

2012-09-19T22:49:00.000-07:00

Amazon is now charging California residents state taxes on purchases!

I always used Amazon because there wasn't any taxes charged and amazon was a little bit cheaper. Well now since they are starting to charge taxes my thought is why go through Amazon for smaller items now if it's going to be the same price going to stores around town.

Now knowing this I will probably still shop Amazon and the only reason why is because it's still cheaper on books, toys, and other items. But I will now buy regular items like baby shampoo at stores instead. It is the same price!

Thank you!
ciao!

Labor Day Weekend! Meaningful!

2012-09-02T23:12:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone is having a safe and relaxing Labor Day weekend!

I just wanted to give a breakdown on why we have this amazing holiday!

Labor Day is observed annually in honor of working people on the first Monday in September in all the states and territories, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The day was originally conceived in 1882 by Peter J. McGuire, the radical founder and indefatigable warrior of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of New York. On 8 May, McGuire proposed to the New York City Central Labor Union that the first Monday in September, because it fell midway between the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving Day, be set aside annually as a "labor day." His effort bore fruit on Tuesday, 5 September 1882, when workers in New York City held a large parade and a festival sponsored by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor. In 1884, the New Yorkers held a parade on the first Monday of September and designated that day as the annual Labor Day. The agitation in New York City was soon followed by labor unions in other states, which staged vigorous campaigns in their state legislatures for the establishment of Labor Day as a legal holiday. Their earliest victories were in Oregon and Colorado, where Labor Day was declared to be a state holiday in February and March 1887, respectively. The next year the American Federation of Labor passed a resolution for the adoption of a Labor Day at its St. Louis, Missouri, convention. Thirty states had followed the lead of Oregon and Colorado by the time the first Monday in September was made a national holiday by an act of Congress, with the bill signed into law by President Grover Cleveland on 28 June 1894. In the early twenty-first century, Labor Day parades, rallies, festivals, and speeches were still organized by labor unions across the country and often supported by political leaders. Because of the shrinking popular base of traditional labor unions, however, most Americans tended to regard the day merely as the finale of a long summer of fun in which hot dogs, barbecues, and picnics reigned.

Oregon was the first U.S. state to recognize Labor Day in 1887. It became a U.S. National holiday in 1894.
In Canada, it became a national holiday on July 23, 1894.

Dollar Tree: Coupons are now Accepted

2012-09-02T23:02:00.002-07:00

Since 8/26/12 Dollar Tree will start letting customers use Manufactured Coupons!!

I would definitely read their coupon policy to make sure you understand beforehand.

Here are the details of the policy:

Only original and intact manufacturers’ coupons will be accepted. Retailer-specific coupons will not be accepted.

Coupons are void if copied, scanned, or if they have been altered in any way.

Only two (2) print-at-home Internet coupons may be redeemed per transaction.

We are unable to accept coupons for “Free” items with no purchase requirements or where the amount for the product is blank.

Coupons can only be used in stores and must be presented at time of purchase. Coupons cannot be redeemed for cash at a later time.

Coupons will not be accepted without the purchase of the item specified and are subject to the terms listed (e.g. expiration date, size, limitations, quantity, etc.).

Coupons cannot be redeemed for more than the purchase price of the item.

Only one (1) manufacturer’s coupon will be accepted per item.

Management has the right to refuse any coupon or otherwise limit quantities.

Extreme Couponing

2012-09-02T22:53:00.000-07:00

The past 4 months I have been cutting coupons for my household and other nonprofit organizations. It has been an extreme couponing feeling for me. I have had 3 really good couponing moments/ transactions. I only shop at Target since I know the ins and outs on their couponing policy, which has taken me 3 months to understand. I ask around on a facebook couponing chat that is based out of the desert area. During the past month I have saved over $400. My first real big couponing moment was one Sunday afternoon I went to target and spent $7.52 in cash and saved over $250 for all of my items. I am now starting up a stock pile in my extra bedroom (husbands office). At the same time you have to understand it's mostly cereal and necessity items (cleaning supplies, toothbrushes, toothpastes, shampoo and conditioners, etc.) It is hard to find coupons on actual grocery/ food items. While shopping at Target I print out their coupons online to coincide with the coupons in the Sunday paper which make it almost free items. I would definitely recommend looking into your local grocery store that you shop at to see if they have coupons online for you to print out and use! They do it for a reason definitely use the free money.

If you have any questions please feel free to send me a message and I will answer to the best of my ability.

Have a lovely Labor Day Weekend!

Target.. Summer Clearance Sale!

2012-08-01T22:48:00.002-07:00

Target is always having their before Christmas Clearance sale the last couple of weeks in July and beginning weeks in August. I do Christmas shopping, and Birthday shopping during these couple of weeks. That way I am not running around crazy during the busy months at the end of the year! Look into you local Targets and see what clearance toys they have on sale. (I have 3 Targets around my area and each Target has different items on sale!!)

Julia Kim

How to beat the heat in the Desert!

2012-08-01T22:45:00.002-07:00

I am recognizing the heat here in the desert is extreme! Here are a couple of ideas that I have been thinking about during the past couple of weeks of things you can do with you family and friends to get out of the heat.

1) Enjoy the Mall..
You can always go to the mall walk around and do window shopping. You don't always have to shop to go shopping with friends. It could just be walking and talking to stay out of the heat.

2) Public Library..
The library is always open for residents around town. Sometimes the libraries around town has little activities for kids and adults. Just look up your counties website to see what activities your library is hosting this month.

3) Public Pools..
Their are tons of public pools in the valley that you can go and refresh yourself and you little ones will have a blast building new relationships with kids around your area.

4) Summer Movie Fun...
Most movie theaters are having wonderful rated G movie times during the day that you can take the little ones to for an extra low cost. Look up the movie theaters in your town and see what is playing.

5) Indoor playgrounds..
Grab ice cream at any play area restaurant in town. (McDonald's, Chick-Fil-A, Burger King, etc.)

6) Find other friends with kids on www.meetup.com and get together at different houses throughout the week. Save on your electric one day and then have them the next to save them money on electric. It definitely helps when the kids are in a different environment a couple of days a week and this is basically cost free.

I hope this helps. My family loves to get out and about so we are always looking for new ways to make the summer exciting and enjoyable without spending loads of cash. :)

Julia Kim

Arthritis Walk in Palm Desert November 27, 2012

2012-07-24T00:23:00.003-07:00

I believe in showing children wonderful opportunities to raise money for a great cause! This is one of the few that I believe is worth walking with the kids. Maybe it could be a yearly family event!

The 2012 Desert Arthritis Walk is our annual signature event that raises funds and awareness to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability and helps fund arthritis research, health education, and government advocacy initiatives. The event features a 3k and 5k course, with arthritis information and activities for the entire family. Pet owners are invited to bring their dogs along for the walk.
For more details and to register, go to www.DesertArthritisWalk.com.

Dive-In Movies at Knott's Soak City!!

2012-07-24T00:11:00.002-07:00

Knott's Soak City
1500 Gene Autry Trail
Palm Springs, CA 92263

Cost: Payment required - $14.00 Adults (12+) $10.00 Juniors (3-11) and Seniors (62+)

EZ-103.1 and Knott’s Soak City are making a big splash again, after hours with Dive In Movies from Fun Flicks! Knott’s Soak City Water Park in Palm Springs will be open late night Friday, June 8th, & 22nd, July 6th & 20th, and August 3rd & 17th at 7pm for the entire family to enjoy 21 acres of water rides, attractions and a movie too! Discounts for annual pass holders and more. Go to soakcityps.com for additional information. Join EZ-103.1 at Knott’s Soak City for Dive In Movies and lots of prize giveaways!

AUGUST 3: THE GOONIES
AUGUST 17: FLUSHED AWAY

PUBLIC LAND DAY! Free Entry Day at All National Parks SEPTEMBER 29, 2012

2012-07-24T00:05:00.001-07:00

Don't forget about the free entry day at all National Parks!!

September 29, 2012

I know we will be getting out and about! It's always nice to enjoy the environment with the kids!

Yelping.. Out and About!

2012-07-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

While driving down the road with my two kids in the back and my husband on our days off. We are always looking for good restaurants to eat at that are kid friendly. Finding a good restaurant while the kids are in the back crying that they are hungry, as well as your stomach growling and the hubby saying it doesn't matter where we eat. Frustration definitely starts rearing it's little head. Well, being that my hubby is a computer wiz, he always brings out his phone and checks through www.yelp.com to see what types of food restaurants are around us and their ratings. It definitely has saved us the past couple of times being out and about. If that wasn't the case and we didn't know about the website we would of definitely converted back to fast food (Mc Donalds, Burger King, etc..). Just wanted to let you guys know that I believe most reviews on the website show to be a fair assessment of what the restaurants are about. The nice thing is you can also review all businesses as well to help with other viewers like yourself.

2 and 3 Year Old Classes that I found in the Desert.

2012-07-07T00:43:00.001-07:00

Having 2 children under the age of 3 is extremely difficult in the desert. For the past couple of months I have been searching outlets for my 2 1/2 year old so that she can have some "my time" on her own. Being a stay at home mom I always feel like I am constantly on her about doing the right thing, being nice, stop saying "no", and sometimes I feel she just never gets a break. So researching at least 2 hours a day these are the options that I have found. I hope they also help your child get breaks and learn how to play with other children.

2 Year Old

1) Power Kids Center (760) 346-4446
77962 Palapas Road Palm Desert, CA 92211
www.powerkidscenter.com
My Tumbling Toddler and Me
18 Months to 3 Years Old

2) Desert Dance Academy (760) 861-8782
4741 E. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92264
www.desertdanceacademy.com
Pre-Ballet
2 - 4 Year Olds

3) Desert Elite Mavericks (760) 328-1113
73-605 Dinah Shore Drive Building 500 Suite 1
Palm Desert, CA 92260
www.dvascheer.com
Tumbling
2 Years Old

3 Year Old

1) Power Kids Center (760) 346-4446
77962 Palapas Road Palm Desert, CA 92211
www.powerkidscenter.com
Fantastic Flippers
3 & 4 Year Olds
Moms (Dads) Morning Out
Potty Trained up to 5 Years Old

2) Desert Dance Academy (760) 861-8782
4741 E. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92264
www.desertdanceacademy.com
Pre-Ballet
2 - 4 Year Olds

3) Desert Elite Mavericks (760) 328-1113
73-605 Dinah Shore Drive Building 500 Suite 1
Palm Desert, CA 92260
www.dvascheer.com
Tiny Mavericks
3 - 5 Years Old

I hope this information helps you as much as it helped me! :)

Thank you,
Julia Kim

July 4th Easy Snack and Treat to make!

2012-06-27T23:58:00.000-07:00

My church is having a lovely picnic after Sunday Morning Service. I am extremely excited to make this. By looking at the picture you can kind of tell what items you will need to make this, but just in case I would like to tell you what I will be using to make this! Enjoy!

Styrofoam (rectangle) platform so that they will stand up.
Marshmellows : Which I noticed that stores are selling some that are stars and red, white and blue so that can be your toppers for your bigger marshmellows.
Chocolate: I got chocolate to melt and dip the marshmellows in so that it will give it a little bit for flavor for the kids :)
Colored Frosting in a tube: for the decorations (U.S.A, etc)
Sprinkles: So that little girls can see sparkles (which of course the woman like to see too) Which I will also use when dipping the marshmellows in chocolate.

I hope you have a wonderful and safe July 4th Weekend!

Thank you!!

Red Lobster Opened Today in Palm Desert, CA

2012-06-25T23:11:00.000-07:00

Yippee! I have been waiting for almost 6 months for Red Lobster to open in the Coachella Valley! Today was the first day! Beginning at 10:00am this morning there was 60+ people waiting for Red Lobster to open up at 11:00am.

Were you there waiting this morning? If so, how was your lunch? Tell me what you think about the food, service, etc. Would love to know if the food and service is worth going.

Thank you,
Julia

Can't wait to know! :)

Regal Summer Movie Express

2012-06-07T17:02:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to post the kids Summer Movie Express List. I am very excited to see this and ready to get it started! :)

Moviegoers of all ages can climb aboard the Summer Movie Express to enjoy a great selection of films. During this 9-week festival, participating Regal Cinemas, United Artists and Edwards Theatres will offer selected G or PG rated movies for only a dollar on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10:00. A portion of proceeds from the Summer Movie Express will be donated to the Will Rogers Institute.

RANCHO MIRAGE STADIUM 16

72-777 Dinah Shore DriveRancho Mirage CA760-770-1615

SEE DATES AND MOVIES

6/12-6/13 (10am)

JOURNEY 2

KIT KITTREDGE: AMER GIRL

6/19-6/20 (10am)

DOLPHIN TALE

HAPPY FEET TWO

6/26-6/27 (10am)

LEGEND OF THE GUARDIANS

YOGI BEAR

7/3-7/4 (10am)

CATS & DOGS: REVENGE

HUGO

7/10-7/11 (10am)

ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN

PUSS IN BOOTS

7/17-7/18 (10am)

KUNG FU PANDA 2

RANGO

7/24-7/25 (10am)

RIO

SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME

7/31-8/1 (10am)

CHIMPANZEE

HOODWINKED TOO

8/7-8/8 (10am)

ARTHUR CHRISTMAS

SMURFS

INDIO METRO 8

81725 Highway 111Indio CA760-342-8451

SEE DATES AND MOVIES

6/12-6/13 (10am)

JOURNEY 2

KIT KITTREDGE: AMER GIRL

6/19-6/20 (10am)

DOLPHIN TALE

HAPPY FEET TWO

6/26-6/27 (10am)

LEGEND OF THE GUARDIANS

YOGI BEAR

7/3-7/4 (10am)

CATS & DOGS: REVENGE

HUGO

7/10-7/11 (10am)

ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN

PUSS IN BOOTS

7/17-7/18 (10am)

KUNG FU PANDA 2

RANGO

7/24-7/25 (10am)

RIO

SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME

7/31-8/1 (10am)

CHIMPANZEE

HOODWINKED TOO

8/7-8/8 (10am)

ARTHUR CHRISTMAS

SMURFS

Clementine Gourmet Market

2012-06-01T22:25:00.001-07:00

Clementine Gourmet MarketPlace and Cafe

72990 El Paseo

Palm Desert, CA 92260

One of my closest friends started working here when they opened up their new location. So of course I had to go and check it out for myself seeing what all the hype was about!

They have an amazing selection of fine products from Italy, Spain, France, and Morocco. Gourmet foods definitely describes their wonderful selection of deli items and desserts. I, of course, had to try their Caesar Salad! Mmmm.. Good!! I was only able to eat 1/4 of it because it was so big, but thankfully I was able to share some with my daughter. It was delicious! I always have to ask for extra dressing when ordering a salad at any restaurant, but they put exactly enough salad dressing for me not to even have to ask! I was very impressed!

When I first walked in there were two very well dressed and well presented ladies that were very friendly from the first moment. I told them that I have never been to their cafe before and they actually took their time to walk me through everything.. (the store gift selections and the food area and how it was set up). It was very nice to know that they actually new the products in the store and was able to explain them to me.

The owner actually was at the location and greeted everyone that was in the store at least twice. She was very friendly and took the time to make sure I was extremely satisfied with the food, gift products, and employee services.

I would definitely recommend walking through the store at least once. I am very certain if you are intrigued with European Gourmet foods that there will be no reason for you not to go back and enjoy another breakfast, lunch or even a dinner.

Zoo Camp- The Living Desert

2012-05-22T14:35:00.001-07:00

The Living Desert is doing their ZOO CAMP again this year. Here is some of the information I received off of their website!

Summer Zoo Camp

8 weeks!

Once again, we'll be offering a selection of ZooCamp experiences. Standard Summer ZooCamp consists of six weekly sessions. Each themed class focuses on an entertaining and educational topic, geared to the specific age level at which it's offered. ZooCampers will be excited by the special behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters you can only find at The Living Desert!

Summer ZooCamp weekly sessions are offered for ages 4 though 12. These sessions run Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 12:00 noon. Summer ZooCampers need to come equipped for outdoor activity with a snack, lunch and water bottle each day.

We'll also be offering special 2-day sessions with our very popular Jr. Ranger Program for campers ages 6-14 at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and NEW programming for ZooCampers ages 10-14, where our older ZooCampers engage in stimulating observations and experiments to better understand the desert around them!

ZooCamp Sleepover Option! ZooCampers now have the opportunity to spend the night at the zoo! ZooCamp overnights are offered once per Zoo Camp. Your adventure begins at 6:30pm and includes guided nighttime walks, a campfire program and surprises along the way! Breakfast the next morning is provided.

Week 1: June 18th - June 22nd

Week 2: June 25th - June 29th

Week 3: July 2nd - July 6th

Week 4: Jr. Rangers Program at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (ages 6-14)

Session A: July 9th - 10th from 9am to 2pm
Session B: July 11th - 12th from 9am to 2pm
ZooCamp Sleepover! July 12th 6:30pm - July 13th 9:00am

Week 5: July 16th - July 27th

Week 6: July 23rd - July 27th

Week 7: July 30th - August 3rd

Week 8: Special ZooCamp Programs (ages 11-14)

Session A: August 6th - 7th from 8am to 12noon
Session B: August 8th - 9th from 8am to 12noon
Come join the Desert Explorers as we discover more than ever before about our desert flora, fauna and the ever changing land beneath us! These special sessions have been designed to challenge and excite older ZooCampers!

Please see the Summer ZooCamp Schedule for pricing and program specifics (posted April 1st). Registration begins April 15th. Register early, as ZooCamp sessions frequently sell out!

For more information, please contact the Education Department at 760-346-5694, ext. 2501 or send an email to ZooCamp@livingdesert.org.

Costco!! My shopping location!!

2012-05-22T14:24:00.001-07:00

In the desert it gets extremely hot. I am now buying up all water, sun screen, swimming suits and arm swimmers for the summer. My number one location to buy my items is Costco! I went to Walmart and Target to find sun screen for my little one and recognized that it's $10 per spray. WOW!! When I went into Costco they are selling 3 for $17.99 of the same size and sometimes they have a couple of dollars off as well, so you can actually get it much cheaper! I have 3 little ones running around and I am constantly spraying sunscreen so that they don't get burnt. The worst thing during the summer is having a baby with a sun burn. Costco also has swimming suits for all ages right now starting at $14 and up. Having girls I get really weird about what type of bathing suits they wear. I like to make sure they are covered up. So because of being so weird about what they wear Costco has helped me with their new swim suits for girls. It's a two piece outfit with a one piece bathing suit (we bought Minnie Mouse) and it comes with a cover up for $19.99. Extremely excited about it since my two girls are 23 months apart so my littlest one can wear it in the following years as well. Water Water Water is a definite must in the desert! I always try to keep bottled water and gallon water in the house and cold so that the babies can just come in and ask for cold water and it will be ready for them. They also have arm swimmers with the front connections for $14. Anywhere else they are going for $30 + unless you find them on sale! I bought one for my 2 1/2 year old girl and she loves it. She walks around with all day long in the house! She just loves it!

I believe in Costco and Sams, but recently I am leaning more towards Costco than Sams. It's cheaper and with better quality products. (I have both memberships).

Have a lovely summer and remember WATER WATER WATER!!

Couponing 101 in the Desert

2012-05-14T23:14:00.003-07:00

Now finally trying to realize how to coupon I figured I would try to explain what I have learned to you, my readers.

Here are a couple of coupon basics that might help a new couponer out!

1) Coupons may only be used once.

2) You may only use one coupon per indicated item(s)

3) You can only use one coupon per item (unless you have a manufactured coupon and a store coupon)

4) Ignore the picture and read the fine wording (the manufacturer always puts on their most expensive item on the coupon to make you think that is what you have to buy)

5) You can use your coupon on clearance or sale items as well!

6) Stand up for yourself. If you know your coupons shop with dignity!! You are saving money not broke! :)

Here are a couple of steps you can do to get ready for your first shopping experience:

1) Get Coupons!

* Sunday Newspaper, Asking Friends and Family for coupons, Search the Internet, Clipping Service, and Check the Stores.

2) Organize Coupons!

* Envelopes (start by clipping and putting them in all in an envelope or check file), File by insert (file your inserts by date in a box), or use a Coupon Binder (clip all coupons and file them in baseball card holders in a three ring binder then you can carry the binder in the store with you)

3) Know the coupon policy at your local store!

* Loyalty Cards, Double/ Triple Coupons, Stacking Coupons, Internet Coupons, Competitor Coupons, Expired Coupons

4) Make a plan!

* Weekly Ads (read the weekly store ads to see what is on sale and which stores you have the best prices on the items you need)

* Coupon Matchups (see if you can match coupons to the sale items to get an even better deal)

* Price Match (some stores will price match other stores in the area)

* Make a List (don't go to the store without a list, it will remind you what you came for and keep you from buying items you don't need)

* Rainchecks (get a rain check if the item you wanted is out of stock)

5) Read the find print!

* Sometimes you don't have to buy 10 items to get the $1 price unless the add states that you have to buy all 10 to get the price

* Wait on sales- don't just use the coupon because you have it wait until the item is at its lowest price so you can get your max potential out of the coupon

* One per purchase- means only use one coupon per item purchased

* Price book- start paying attention to prices and keep a list of items you regularly buy with the best and regular prices for those items

* Limits- store will sometimes put limits on the item to make you think it's a great price!

* Shop early if you have couponers in your area then it's best to get to the store as early in the sale as you can!

* Bigger is better- the cost per unit of the bigger box of cereal may be less than the smaller one but with coupons and sales the smaller box is likely a better deal

* Watch the cashier- checking out pay close attention to the price screen to make sure everything rings up at the correct price, and also make sure the cashier scans all of your coupons

6) Build your stockpile!

* Start slowly, buy for the future, know how much you use, and donate!!

Doubling Coupons

Doubling and tripling coupons is one of the most confusing aspects of couponing for beginners (and me). So, I am going to explain exactly what it means!

Double or triple coupons is a promotion offered by the store in an effort to get you to shop there. Doubling coupons is when the store will take your coupon and match the value of it up to a certain amount. The amount will vary by store.

The coupon doubling happens automatically at the register, however you may need to use your loyalty/ rewards card to take advantage of the promotion (make sure to scan your card before any coupons or they may not double). After you scan the $1 coupon, you will see another deduction right under it for another $1 off.

Most store will only double a certain number of each of the same coupon.

Stores will only double up to a certain amount. The amounts are usually $.50,$. 99, or $1. That means, if you store doubles up to $.99 and you use a $1 coupon, your $1 coupon will not double. So, in this situation, a $.75 coupon would actually be worth more than $1 coupon!

Some coupons state "do not double" on them. If the coupon bar code starts with a "5" it will double automatically. If it starts with a "9" it will not double automatically.

Some stores only double on certain days.

To find out your store's policy- JUST CALL AND ASK! Make sure to address each of the issues above so you know what to expect when you go to the store.

I also follow couponmom.com. It helps me find my stores around me and the newest coupons with the stores. It's a life savor! I would definitely check out this website!

I hope everything that I have learned helps you as well! Happy Shopping!

11 Hidden Costs of Owning a Home

2012-05-10T15:08:00.000-07:00

I have been in Real Estate for 10 yrs +. Over the years I have recognized that people get flustered buying a home for the first time and not recognizing all the hidden costs that come out either during the closing or even before hand. I wanted to share some of the hidden costs of owning a home, in hoping that people will read this and become more educated before taking the step in buying a home.

Inspection and Appraisal Fees
Before you purchase a home, you need to pay for a home inspection, an appraisal and perhaps additional inspections for pest or radon. The costs of these inspections are borne by buyers and are a necessary protection to avoid buying a flawed property or paying too much.

Closing Costs
Some buyers are able to negotiate with the seller for a contribution for these costs, but buyers need to be prepared with the cash for anywhere from 2% to 4% for the mortgage balance depending on your area.

Taxes
As a homeowner, you'll need to pay property taxes, which are generally part of the escrow you pay into each month. Remember, even if you have a fixed-rate home loan, your property taxes could go up and increase your monthly housing costs.

Insurance
Your lender will require home insurance, which could be costly depending on a variety of factors including the construction materials of your home and the location. Even if you have renter's insurance, you'll find that home insurance costs more because you are paying for the ability to rebuild your home in addition to replacing your personal possessions. Insurance costs can also rise over time, and you may need supplemental insurance if you live in a flood or earthquake zone.

HOA and Condo Fees
If you buy a home within a homeowner's association or a condominium association, you'll be required to pay a monthly or quarterly fee. These fees can rise, or your association may need to charge a special assessment for projects such as repaving the parking lot or repairing a roof.

Moving Costs
Not only will you need to pay a moving company or rent a truck to move your belongings, but you may need to make deposits to start your utilities.

Utility Bills
Depending on where you live now, your costs for electricity, gas and water could be higher when you move into your own home. you may also need to pay for garbage collection along with your Internet, cable and phone bill.

Furniture and Decorative Items
While this is essentially a discretionary expense, most people who move from a small apartment to a larger home need to buy at least some new furniture. You can keep your expenses in this category in check by waiting for a year or two to buy extra things and carefully comparing prices before any big purchases.

Lawn Care
Whether you handle your yard work yourself or hire a professional, you will have to pay something to keep your landscaping in check. Lawn equipment can be costly and, if you have a lot of land, you may need items such as a snow blower or a leaf blower, too.

Maintenance
Interior home maintenance costs both time and money. While you may be able to change your furnace filters, clean your gutters and keep your appliances running smoothly yourself, you may also need to hire a contractor to clean and inspect your chimney and to keep your heating and air conditioning system in top shape.

Repairs
While maintenance tasks can be predictable, the most costly part of homeownership typically comes with unexpected repairs such as replacing or repairing the roof, fixing loose times in the shower, removing an overgrown or dead tree, or paying for mold mitigation in a damp basement. The list of possibilities is endless, so the best thing homeowners can do is to set aside savings for an emergency. Some financial experts suggest budgeting for 1% or 2% of your mortgage balance as a yearly maintenance and repair fund, but the amount you save depends on the age, condition and size of your home.

The Bottom Line
While buying a home may cost a little more than you think, the investment in property can still be worthwhile as long as you buy what you can afford, budget for expected and unexpected expenses and hole onto your home for at least seven to 10 years.

But don't let the hidden costs scare you. As long as you have a Real Estate Agent to guide you through the process you shouldn't have any costs that you didn't know about ahead of time. That is what Real Estate Agents are supposed to do for you!

ULTA New Store in Palm Desert

2012-05-10T00:26:00.000-07:00

I was really excited to learn that ULTA Beauty is moving their store to the Target Palm Desert Shopping Center. For me being a mother of 3, it was really difficult to go to the River and shop at ULTA because the kids always wanted to go to the movies, or play in the water, or even try to find a parking spot because of the movie theater, and etc... But now that ULTA finally moved I was able to go with my two girls and just enjoy walking into one store with up front parking. Also, since ULTA moved they sent out $3.50 coupons which gave me more of a reason to go and check out the new store! I bought a couple of items as well. Of course since they moved the were having very good sales which gave me more of a reason to buy items! I hope you also go and experience this store when you get a chance!

Desert Recreation District

2012-05-08T22:50:00.003-07:00

Desert Recreation District

I just received my new Activity Guide for the Summer of 2012. I always like to see what they have to offer every year for my little ones. The guide shows you all of the facilities and parks around the desert area that you can enjoy. ( Bermuda Dunes, Indio Hills, Indio, La Quinta, Mecca, North Short Yacht Club, Palm Desert, Pawley Pool Family Aquatic Center, Placitas de la Paz, Portola, The First Tee Coachella Valley, and Thousand Palms). You can sign up with any of the above facilities and enjoy their gymnasium, tracks, and weight rooms for annual passes that range from $25 (resident) -$120 (non district residents).

Kaiser Permanente developed the Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) program to address the growing obesity epidemic in America. Operation Splash is one of the HEAL programs that strives to empower communities to transform their neighborhoods and schools to encourage physical activity as part of daily life.
The Operation Splash program provides swim lessons, open swim, Junior Lifeguard Training, and they are offered at no cost if you qualify. It starts June 2nd from 9am-12pm at Pawley Pool Family Aquatic Complex.

This guide also has:
Tot Programs with fees per month: For toddlers
Summer Camp Programs with fees per sessions: For the school kids on Summer Break
Dance Programs with fees per month: For all Ages
Music Programs with fees per session: For 9 yrs + Ages
Health and Fitness Programs with fees per session: For all Ages
Sports Programs with fees per session: For all Ages
Archery
Basketball
Football
Valleyball
Table Tennis
Martial Arts Programs with fees per month: For 3+ Ages
The First Tee (Golf) Program with fees per week: For 7+ Ages
Gymnastics Program with fees per month: For 1+ Ages

SPECIAL EVENTS:

Carnaval of Lights July 4, 2012

Photo Contest "Give Us Your Best Shot"
All Entries Must Be Receive By August 1st, 2012

Karate Tournament October 13, 2012

Indio Community Center Halloween Carnival October 27, 2012

Mecca Fall Festival November 1, 2012

2nd Annual Palm Desert Century Bicycle Ride November 10, 2012

Santa's Workshop December 15, 2012

I always enjoy getting this Guide every Season, because it gives me a chance to get my kids in activities within the community.

Super Moon Tonight

2012-05-06T01:13:00.005-07:00

A lunar light show circled the globe today, rewarding many moongazers with bright, crisp detail of the full moon's craters and basins. Called a "perigee" moon by scientists, the annual phenomenon occurs once a year. NASA said the moon appears about 14% bigger and 30% brighter than other full moons. That's because it will be as close to Earth as it will get for a while -- just over 221,000 miles away. Residents of the mainland United States received similar conditions at 8:34 p.m., the peak of this year's "super moon." The best time to see the event is just as the moon crosses Earth's horizon. The moon always looks biggest then, although the reason why is a bit of a mystery. Viewing the moon behind buildings and trees creates an optical illusion so it appears even larger, making it a perfect time to try to grab some beautiful pictures.

So why is this full moon so super?

As the moon makes its elliptical orbit around Earth, there are specific times when it is closest to and farthest away from our planet. Apogee occurs when the moon is farthest away from us, and perigee occurs when it is closest. Experts say viewers may not notice a noticeable size difference, given there are no reference points when the moon is high overhead. "'Super moon' is a situation when the moon is slightly closer to Earth in its orbit than on average, and this effect is most noticeable when it occurs at the same time as a full moon," James Garvin, chief scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said in 2011. "So, the moon may seem bigger although the difference in its distance from Earth is only a few percent at such times." "I love nature," said Wade, 31, who has a corporate day job and an online vintage clothing shop. The super moon is a natural phenomenon, and that is what is so awesome about it.

Red Lobster Opening

2012-05-06T01:07:00.002-07:00

While small businesses in Palm Desert are opening in numbers according to The Desert Sun, the status of the larger and more visible retail spaces along Highway 111 is much different.

Construction on Red Lobster (on Highway 111 and Fred Waring) is drawing much attention. The long awaited seafood chain expects to open in Palm Desert sometime near the end of June.

Those looking for employment with the restaurant are advised to watch www.facebook.com/workatredlobster. A large banner will also be placed at the restaurant itself announcing when applications will be accepted.

Noticeable vacancies at former large retailers in Palm Desert aren’t being filled soon.

Vacant since 2008, the former Mervyn’s site is slated for new life in the future. Vons has approval from the city to move from the Palms to Pines center to the space formerly occupied by Mervyn’s. Palm Desert’s Director of Community Development Lauri Aylaian told patch that the plan was for Vons to open this November, but the grocery chain has pushed back the opening at least one year.

Toys-R-Us moved from Palm Desert to Indio in 2011, never regaining sales traction at the Palm Desert location following a double killing at the store on Black Friday in 2008.

Since then, the city has had talks with developers and retailers about the site, but none have reached an announced agreement.

The Best Buy in Palm Desert is also making changes. According to a newspaper article, the electronics retailer plans to shut down the location on Towne Center Way, across from Westfield Palm Desert, and to re-open in a smaller location in the Desert Crossing Center. There is no word of who will take over the current Best Buy location.