tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61553403327183156472024-03-05T00:58:24.348-08:00Orlando PlaygroundMom knows best.....where to go, things to do and anything else for kids in the metro Orlando area.Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-59009174656827229012012-04-11T06:16:00.007-07:002012-04-11T08:29:18.864-07:00My baby can read!I'm writing this today as a Mommy of a first and third grader but I can remember being a Mommy of a 1 year old and a 3 year old. Actually, I have forgotten a lot as I was very sleep deprived during that time and my brain cells were stolen by my little men. That's my excuse and I'm sticking to it.<br />
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Anyway, the one thing that I do remember doing with my kids in between diapers, naps, cleaning, cooking and drinking LOADS of coffee is <em><span style="color: red;">reading</span></em> to my boys. We read every night, every day....all the time. Books were toys, books were for comfort, books were for the car, books were for the potty (I know, I know), books were for anytime. I bought new books, used books, old books, not-so-great books, classics and any books that I could get my hands on. Santa, the Easter Bunny, Grandma and Nana all brought books and we gave lots of books as presents. And the library was our friend! The librarians know my kids. They are like old friends to them. Did you know the library is FREE, too?! You know I love that!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>What I am getting at is that we used books as a fun thing and even though I don't read nearly as much as I should or would like, my kids sure do. I'm not bragging (maybe I am) but my third grader reads at a 7th grade level and my first grader reads at a 5th grade level. I'm a mommy that questions the choices I have made in regards to my children and wonder daily if they will be in therapy later in life because of some of those choices. But, I actually took a deep breath yesterday after a meeting with one of my son's teachers and for just a second was proud of myself (and my boy, too!) and the gift of reading that I have given to my children. Believe me when I say that this does NOT mean that my children won't still be in therapy discussing their mother later in life! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2mmFC0ROnXJFNe1NvNmQ1IRa7OlpghDn4-qT2ZEmJUpe7c5r3swVQzs-lItNVFnQjxk_vdSrxvrxwgRFoRxWfwN-zec8_bOMHCt5xE8CgwSJwVr-ocm6z7PXwXXQBf0ldHsctAx9skodt/s1600/2011-03-28+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2mmFC0ROnXJFNe1NvNmQ1IRa7OlpghDn4-qT2ZEmJUpe7c5r3swVQzs-lItNVFnQjxk_vdSrxvrxwgRFoRxWfwN-zec8_bOMHCt5xE8CgwSJwVr-ocm6z7PXwXXQBf0ldHsctAx9skodt/s320/2011-03-28+002.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
A couple moms have asked me about my kids reading ability and what did I do to get them to this. I never used flash cards or the videos "Your Baby Can Read". I read to my children and went to the library every week to take out ALL the books they wanted or for storytime. I made books accessible to them and I made books a fun thing and a bedtime ritual and never a punishment. Now that they aren't babies being read to anymore, I help them find books that they love to read and about topics that interest them. That's it. <br />
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Ok, just wanted to share this one piece of advice to those of you with little ones or big ones. It's not too late to develop a love for reading. That's all I got. I can't advise you on anything else as my boys are still "gentlemen in training" and so not perfect! Neither am I so I guess that's where they get it from! : ) Now, back to life and mom guilt and questioning EVERYTHING else that I do with my children. Maybe I should go to therapy!<br />
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Anyway, go read!Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-88920382106778200242011-10-19T04:28:00.000-07:002011-10-19T04:28:34.750-07:00First Family Fun and Free Activity ..... Halloween with the Orlando Magic<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><img border="0" height="603" id="_x0000_i1025" src="http://media1.mm.ticketmaster.com/orlando%20magic/email/FLICK_OR_TREAT_E-MAIL_V6_101811.JPG" width="620" /></span>Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-64992399976849351582011-10-16T12:24:00.000-07:002011-10-18T07:58:54.173-07:00Don't miss the last night of the Lake Mary Ghost Tour!<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">A bunch of us headed out last night to our back yard of Lake Mary for a reasonably priced ($14 for a family of four) Ghost Tour put on by the Lake Mary Historical Museum. It was dark, there were ghosts and even a cookie at the end! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The Ghost Tour was a tour of the downtown area of Lake Mary, near City Hall, to the cemetary and back. It consisted of walking to different ghost stations with a tour and sometimes getting a little spooked. Ok, the adults weren't spooked but the kids were. Anyway, at each station you were told different stories about people who were from Lake Mary and their lives and how they became ghosts. There was one station about zombies that had nothing to do with Lake Mary or ghosts but the boys loved it. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1p3pusNNHAPux3hDKuc6Iv3CLnEFgLd3E1aDY5thEBxsWkFJSdqgHFxwbxqqgWd4bHNmZTRw0wG8l3hpukCY8DTUzJr_qk2enXXTw2qeWa79gR8S8nFB3JrCkX5bUxWYQZ9QC_swAD5p/s320/Halloween.jpg" width="320" /></span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This tour is appropriate for ages 7 and up. I heard a rumor that it made a couple young 6 year olds from another group cry so if you child is extremly sensitive about scary things then you might want to pass. The area that caused the tears was the police station and without giving anything away, it's the part of the tour where you go inside the station where things might "happen" while you are there. Even though this made a few little ones cry, this was definitely a favorite part of the tour for our group, aside from the zombies! >: o</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The ghost tour is only happening one more night, <span style="color: red;"><strong>October 23</strong></span> so get on the phone and call or shoot an email to make reservations now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Here is the information that I received from the Lake Mary Museum. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">"</span><span style="font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The Lake Mary Historical Museum’s Annual Ghost Walk is filling up fast! Make your reservation soon, so you don’t miss your chance to meet some of Lake Mary’s ghosts! Tours leave the museum every 10 minutes beginning at 7PM for a trip to the cemetery and back. The Ghost Walk is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 16 and Saturday, Oct. 23 only. Closed to shoes are strongly recommended</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The cost is only $5 for adults and $2 for children under 18. To make your reservation or for more information, call 407-585-1481 or email </span><a href="mailto:info@lakemaryhistory.org"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">info@lakemaryhistory.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">. The museum is located at 158 N. Country Club Rd in Lake Mary."</span></span>Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-65234632106344102872011-10-14T06:04:00.000-07:002011-10-15T06:13:07.862-07:00My baby is nine years old....don't let him hear that I called him my baby!<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMR6EpG526Ch5Z-Yisax5fstXe_hHqJfN7lbRaxLiGNociorDcn-Ntsm3uIDBLriecONBOnhdEezV1Jn39ScnUEDIrRW0c1iNUd4ZtyinQOHO5ZZkVs8OKdlpSeM_ANhgJugnugj2D6Y8/s1600/2011-10-01+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMR6EpG526Ch5Z-Yisax5fstXe_hHqJfN7lbRaxLiGNociorDcn-Ntsm3uIDBLriecONBOnhdEezV1Jn39ScnUEDIrRW0c1iNUd4ZtyinQOHO5ZZkVs8OKdlpSeM_ANhgJugnugj2D6Y8/s320/2011-10-01+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>So, my first born turned 9 and I am shocked and stunned and amazed. <br />
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Everyone always says "they grow up so quick", "before you know it they are off to college" and things like that. I would always look at my little babies and try and understand but time always seemed to go slowly as I watched each milestone, sitting up, crawling, walking, etc. Now, I have a 9 year old little man who wants to be treated like the big kid that he is. It's hard. Extra hard when you show up at school to surprise him with a special lunch with his Mom and he walks toward you with a look of horror on his face. WHAT happened to my little baby who wouldn't leave my side and told me that "I never want a wife when I get older, just you mommy!!!"? Ok, so I am getting over it slowly that he is growing up. I will be ok. This is what they are supposed to do. This is what all that hard work is for. One day they grow up and feel good about going out on their own. They are supposed to get older, independent and closer to you in height. It's ok. I'm ok. I will be ok.<br />
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ANYWAY, so it was birthday party time last week. I love parties and I can't have a small party. BUT I have never had to plan a big "BIG kid" party. It's a different type of party. It should be "cool" and fun and ALWAYS something active. Again, if you know me and my boys then you know it's always about GO GO GO.....and always "the more the merrier"!<br />
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So, my son wanted a pool party and wanted to invite everyone so we used our local pool and we did what he asked....pool party. You don't have to do a lot for a pool party as the kids are swimming and having fun on their own so I didn't plan a lot of games. I must interject here and say that my Mom is awesome at planning kids parties and kids games and knowing what kids like to do. She gave that gift to me and I just realized it at this last party. Thanks Mom! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtxWVa6DRsukkGwUXir2rk5yw2yUul6P-nU6M4HKc4syywmcWRCSCO9U6s8UliEQHZslSq-FckRBNIoxSYuYXiZhjDWZqR77foj2ifA-HYNgVMpGb9QUJCtRQ89-AR16CkJFUtG2khpeT/s1600/2011-07-27+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtxWVa6DRsukkGwUXir2rk5yw2yUul6P-nU6M4HKc4syywmcWRCSCO9U6s8UliEQHZslSq-FckRBNIoxSYuYXiZhjDWZqR77foj2ifA-HYNgVMpGb9QUJCtRQ89-AR16CkJFUtG2khpeT/s320/2011-07-27+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Mommy doing what she loves...reading a book and sitting under her umbrella at the beach!</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Anyway, I had two organized games and even got to borrow the lifeguards bullhorn. The first game was a boogie board relay race. I had two teams and each team had about 6 two person racers. The way it worked was two kids hung onto the board and kicked back and forth across the pool and the first team to have all their people race and back to the wall won. I grouped the kids boys and girls so that there wasn't any "I like him", "I don't like her", "she's too slow", "he's too short", etc. I think it worked out well and the kids really got into cheering their team on. And the kids that weren't strong swimmers didn't have to feel uncomfortable about swimming because they had a teamate and they were hanging onto a board. And I gave out prizes of water guns to the winning team.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqW_5sqXwMBjfsOds2qFRI7DBE1yalYSF2RO3mUFr-xUIwB892yWwcPTI5HLsdZfcBXuSSOky97KIKYySNS94CwdmdbomV0VKzPIKJ0aGkycHT78kElZVkOj1HNqwz45mn5-NtwCCE4OGK/s1600/2011-10-01+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqW_5sqXwMBjfsOds2qFRI7DBE1yalYSF2RO3mUFr-xUIwB892yWwcPTI5HLsdZfcBXuSSOky97KIKYySNS94CwdmdbomV0VKzPIKJ0aGkycHT78kElZVkOj1HNqwz45mn5-NtwCCE4OGK/s320/2011-10-01+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The second game was a money dive. My husband and I got about $30 in change, mostly pennnies but there was a little silver in there, too. I spray painted 12 pennies in red paint and had "pool" related prizes for those 12 pennies. We spread the money all over the shallow end and then gave the kids zip lock bags and let them lose. It was lots of fun and the kids were allowed to keep the money they found. We didn't have any injuries just one person who got out of the water crying so I guess it went well. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT6v6AlvEAZHXTgh9oqYM1z2oweKBDBun_3FXiJj06BLKtEVv8etM8-TZc1Nn7iodop6d_UqwQEQgPaRHGmBxQGuAujBrTR8As1dQtSAgdul-Zex3winVEPCCgDa9nWO7taOT2FTgLLfez/s1600/2011-10-01+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT6v6AlvEAZHXTgh9oqYM1z2oweKBDBun_3FXiJj06BLKtEVv8etM8-TZc1Nn7iodop6d_UqwQEQgPaRHGmBxQGuAujBrTR8As1dQtSAgdul-Zex3winVEPCCgDa9nWO7taOT2FTgLLfez/s320/2011-10-01+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaz0Hg6YVhdSlGoa5c4y7pkA49KNws3tZe_nJ5HnI7g_XxfKrUQi3DnLVxbhHq2xhVduJcPQpBKMOm-BMITz8KMRdN2dS4dfet9rgBmtXVCaLdsGx-90A2N-iaLCq2ToIpL7IXg-CesCl/s1600/2011-10-01+069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaz0Hg6YVhdSlGoa5c4y7pkA49KNws3tZe_nJ5HnI7g_XxfKrUQi3DnLVxbhHq2xhVduJcPQpBKMOm-BMITz8KMRdN2dS4dfet9rgBmtXVCaLdsGx-90A2N-iaLCq2ToIpL7IXg-CesCl/s200/2011-10-01+069.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I see Aggie from <a href="http://www.aggieskitchen.com/">http://www.aggieskitchen.com/</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4H5_mC1Ho9kEezfhCTBm-dgZoOMdMZ1ef3L5YYwT19YqhSG0Gml-pc7w_QP3gZYWR8f3fUvh2JWuQq_eFEVlEplHEehPSG1ZtJkFiubqfZM63sYAHpPrgUyo9yU868c-ffpBpK44OBZlz/s1600/2011-10-01+080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4H5_mC1Ho9kEezfhCTBm-dgZoOMdMZ1ef3L5YYwT19YqhSG0Gml-pc7w_QP3gZYWR8f3fUvh2JWuQq_eFEVlEplHEehPSG1ZtJkFiubqfZM63sYAHpPrgUyo9yU868c-ffpBpK44OBZlz/s200/2011-10-01+080.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Candy, Candy, Candy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The last thing about the party that my son loved was the Candy Bar. It was a bar set up with all his favorite candy. Each child came up to the bar and filled their goody bags (chinese takout containers) with candy. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">In addition to the fun size candy bars, I made personalized candy bars with my son's pictures on them and some cute words. They were so easy to make and everyone just loved them.....particulary my son. </div></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6viAjCdaEUT1pckG4VF3BPvSmy39A1kWSwqCb4NNAemQCoTQG4mqjAJwJ1mi4TtDs8rA9TxLCE5c9YQpeCK7_KO0Q-8Vz0jpWQFt-PNeL0VR6oR6Khk0NEvfyO5EO7FM-gpsdPGGZkLsf/s1600/photo+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6viAjCdaEUT1pckG4VF3BPvSmy39A1kWSwqCb4NNAemQCoTQG4mqjAJwJ1mi4TtDs8rA9TxLCE5c9YQpeCK7_KO0Q-8Vz0jpWQFt-PNeL0VR6oR6Khk0NEvfyO5EO7FM-gpsdPGGZkLsf/s320/photo+%25283%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbIIVdx3rsBbIQWpA4__X5ASKwczCtApWAHDcGja-pU3xdS7VcHKAAAraH6gC_K5qGV2JqculDSvuL80FYBaYFdJJcQ4pEypBc2Y9MLKDg4b1NBYecY2y7bwzQ6VvOsjlWo6a5s5Jvi8i7/s1600/photo+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbIIVdx3rsBbIQWpA4__X5ASKwczCtApWAHDcGja-pU3xdS7VcHKAAAraH6gC_K5qGV2JqculDSvuL80FYBaYFdJJcQ4pEypBc2Y9MLKDg4b1NBYecY2y7bwzQ6VvOsjlWo6a5s5Jvi8i7/s320/photo+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Who wouldn't want a candy bar that was named after you? I made enough so each child could have one. Here is the site to download the template. <a href="http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/CT010146758.aspx?tl=2#ai:TC030005493|">Candy Bar Wrapper FREE Template</a> And I made sure the candy bar happened when it was time to go home so those sugar crazed kids went home to their parents!!! : )<br />
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Anyway, my son said it was the best birthday ever and one of his classmates even told me that it was the "best day of their life". Whoa. Success!<br />
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I always prided myself on planning my little boys parties. But I guess I can now say that I am good at planning big kids parties, too! Happy Birthday to my lovey Christian! Don't tell him I said that!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJx2ATHGWMh_KsmaiZmWD63GoN-3XxO6oIHH-UXRDUZmqbRrKit8ObpqwnVCJcvyE6b1JzOCm5d5q-vdVpTl9yS5XeU91rgEbawIOFLw9W4KeANPDNGTnpqKlawZ3NEHwA09oe8n90pD-o/s1600/2011-10-01+095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJx2ATHGWMh_KsmaiZmWD63GoN-3XxO6oIHH-UXRDUZmqbRrKit8ObpqwnVCJcvyE6b1JzOCm5d5q-vdVpTl9yS5XeU91rgEbawIOFLw9W4KeANPDNGTnpqKlawZ3NEHwA09oe8n90pD-o/s320/2011-10-01+095.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-60688027952993745662011-10-06T05:26:00.000-07:002011-10-06T12:45:51.772-07:00Student Daytime Shows<div align="left"></div><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Have you ever been to the <strong>Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center</strong>? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">If not, you are missing out. The <strong>WDPAC</strong> is located in downtown historic Sanford and literally in my backyard! I first visited this theatre when my youngest was three. I was looking for a show for Grandma and him to go to and stumbled upon their Student Daytime Program. It was a play done by a traveling group and was a combination of a couple fairytales with a modern twist. It was AWESOME and my normally loud and squirmy little boy was silent, aside from laughing, and glued to his seat. There is plenty of interaction with the actors and the audience and being quiet is NOT a requirement. They must know me and my boys! Anyway, I didn't even know my son liked watching anything other than PBS. He LOVED the show and we now make sure to hit ALL the local kids musicals and plays. Of course, I see Broadway in his future. Until then, we will continue to visit our local community theatre, particulary the WDPAC!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">So, check out the two upcoming shows. If you child is school age, feel free to share with his teacher as this makes a great field trip and close to home. If they are preschool age, grab their little hands and come out to one of the productions. I promise you won't be dissapointed (unless you forget to make reservations and they sell out!) Each ticket is just $5! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">PS. These shows sell out early and are first come, first serve. </span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Lady of Bullyburg </span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Thursday, November 3, 2011</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">10:00AM & 12:00PM </span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;">From the National Theatre in Washington, DC to hundreds of schools across America, our anti-bullying fairytale is back! Join Lady Kindness as she works to save her town from a visiting bully. With help from the audience and a friendly merchant, she discovers the strength within herself to stand up to the bully, learning a variety of useful tools in the process. This interactive production allows audience volunteers the opportunity to join Lady Kindness on stage and work with her to transform the bully into a friend! The perfect kick-off to the school year, this production includes themes of respect, compassion, kindness and responsibility! (Grades K-5) </span></span><br />
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<div align="left"></div><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Aesop’s Fables </span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Thursday, January 26, 2012<br />
10:00AM & 12:00PM</strong></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;">These 2600-year-old gems have never been as entertaining as this! Join our Elizabethan actors as they stumble upon your assembled crowd and decide to put on a showcase of Aesop’s greatest hits! The result is a fast-paced, high-energy production that has left audiences shouting for more! From "The Fox and the Grapes" and "The Tortoise and the Hare" to "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" and "The Lion and the Mouse," these animal-filled adventures focus on honesty, compassion, hard work and kindness. (Grades K-5) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Broadway; font-size: x-large;">All Tickets ONLY $5.00 </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Arial; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Arial; font-size: small;">Call 407-321-8111 to reserve your seats today! </span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Franklin Gothic Book, Franklin Gothic Book; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Franklin Gothic Book, Franklin Gothic Book; font-size: x-small;">This program is sponsored in part by Orange County Public Schools, Seminole County Public Schools <br />
and United Arts of Central FL.</span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> <span style="font-family: Times New Roman, Times New Roman; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, Times New Roman; font-size: small;">201-203 S. Magnolia Ave, Sanford, FL </span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, Times New Roman; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, Times New Roman; font-size: small;">407-321-8111 </span></span></i><br />
<a href="http://www.wdpac.com/">http://www.wdpac.com/</a></div>Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-80922591450297048122011-09-06T19:18:00.000-07:002011-09-07T08:55:06.350-07:00Bowling is old school fun!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hope you all had a wonderful Labor Day. I know I did spending the weekend with my best boys at my favorite beach, Clearwater Beach, Florida. We spent our Sunday night swimming in the gulf watching the sunset. Doesn't get any better than that!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi25B1PM2R7Wt7XMAq14RGbIesKuP6Xw5eGGbLVbn_saWTMqnMd0SfTI2MrlQudJjhSxStqLXlhm4UPlaMnuJqXgwQuhhkDAZOR_4_abgSGxHotYjeDN3cP-x-Oxssb21i4yNsW5whWQIO-/s1600/321180_10150360503630661_730420660_10213262_7178653_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi25B1PM2R7Wt7XMAq14RGbIesKuP6Xw5eGGbLVbn_saWTMqnMd0SfTI2MrlQudJjhSxStqLXlhm4UPlaMnuJqXgwQuhhkDAZOR_4_abgSGxHotYjeDN3cP-x-Oxssb21i4yNsW5whWQIO-/s320/321180_10150360503630661_730420660_10213262_7178653_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, back to bowling.... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #741b47;"><em>You say bowling is <u>boring!</u> </em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em><span style="color: #0b5394;">You say it's so <u>old school</u>! </span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It is old school...supposedly there is proof that bowling was invented in ancient Egypt. Cool! Anyway, bowling has been around forever but that is what makes it so endearing. It always takes me back to when I was little. Let's be honest. Some of the bowling alleys out there haven't changed much since then! Then you say bowling is boring. It isn't! I have never heard one of my boys say "I'm bored" while he were throwing a bowling ball and smashing down pins. It's so much fun. We always have a "ball". <strong><span style="font-size: large;">Ha!</span></strong> We have had bowling play dates, bowling birthday parties, fun bowling "Date Nights" and "nothing to do so let's bowl" days. My one friend has a "Annual Family Bowling Championship" each year over Fourth of July weekend. I love that! And in Florida when the weather is so unpredictable, the weather is one thing you don't have to worry about when you go bowling. Bowling is great for all ages ( don't forget to put up those bumpers!) and skill level. I don't know if I can say bowling is educational in anyway but it is a great family activity!</div><br />
All summer long there was free bowling for my kids through <a href="http://www.kidsbowlfree.com./">Kids Bowl Free</a>. This was a national deal for kids where 2 games of bowiling and their shoe rental were free every day over the summer. We went loads of times! Thanks Kids Bowl Free! Never really figured out who was sponsoring that or who was behind it. They need better PR! And we even ate the bowling alley french fries and nachos. Again, old school junk food is so not good for you but sometimes you just gotta do it.<br />
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Anyway, in this post I am giving a "shout out" to my local bowling alley, Sanford Airport Lanes, located at 190 East Airport Blvd,Sanford, FL , 407-324-2129 <a href="http://alomabowlingcenters.com/airport/index.php.">Sanford Bowling Alley</a>. This location is so easy to get to right off of 417. It's an older bowling alley inside so it's got the old school feel for sure!<br />
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If you can't view this picture, click on the right side of this page to view a larger format!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBZGeef-vbFeVt0O3llfHi10V4eU-6wKKPQvr-QejnErYev4IWm72G_CCChnUERUn41HqjvL2DbsmQATvHxlD3TMtHOxBJxjt_LSBpOwxLHNwS2F5UcWrjEJBSsFN1WW5qfzuoTqdRXjz/s1600/Bowling+Goings+on.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBZGeef-vbFeVt0O3llfHi10V4eU-6wKKPQvr-QejnErYev4IWm72G_CCChnUERUn41HqjvL2DbsmQATvHxlD3TMtHOxBJxjt_LSBpOwxLHNwS2F5UcWrjEJBSsFN1WW5qfzuoTqdRXjz/s640/Bowling+Goings+on.jpg" width="492" /></a><br />
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</div>There is a bunch of things going on at my local bowling alley. My favorite is the Sunday $1 games. My kids love Sundays and have had some great fun bowling on a Sunday morning. Mom loves the low cost.! When I was at the bowling alley a couple of weeks ago I noticed a coupon the was laying out on the counter. The coupon was for a "Back to Bowling" event but at the bottom of the flyer there is a coupon for free games for up to four people! It doesn't expire until December 31, 2011!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBNwo80cCEt3QzdBPl5CIVJYB5jtZwN2RJDiTvFyCF_1BM1l_ktmQWVYjEn9zGhGzYxKWC_dwXITF-83lHeOjCedLlD8Ux6MBj8gUTcG58AUDYdvzyM1KFoyAtEFBIbbquHdX3NA1UMnF/s1600/Bowling+Coupon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBNwo80cCEt3QzdBPl5CIVJYB5jtZwN2RJDiTvFyCF_1BM1l_ktmQWVYjEn9zGhGzYxKWC_dwXITF-83lHeOjCedLlD8Ux6MBj8gUTcG58AUDYdvzyM1KFoyAtEFBIbbquHdX3NA1UMnF/s640/Bowling+Coupon.jpg" width="403" /></a></div>If you can't view this coupon,, click on the right side of this page to view a larger format! <br />
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Print out these deals, grab the kids or grab your date and go spend a fun day/night out.If the Sanford Airport Lanes isn't local for you, call your local bowling alley and find out what their "deals" are for you.Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-15949435696044424472011-08-27T08:16:00.000-07:002011-08-27T08:26:42.426-07:00Lowe's FREE Classes get an A+<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjclMRmJrdf1bs_ZUXNMFJnbwvB5-zUWqaU2DAy52yL9Uh0nvvj5aOQzjCF4MbD_bwbIOrOyLv8vAkoMeQCxcKmzrkINFF-BX5SHLwEhYmUE05IH-CFA2GicvjuYT5FLBbU2Ol4KMEsTK/s1600/Christian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjclMRmJrdf1bs_ZUXNMFJnbwvB5-zUWqaU2DAy52yL9Uh0nvvj5aOQzjCF4MbD_bwbIOrOyLv8vAkoMeQCxcKmzrkINFF-BX5SHLwEhYmUE05IH-CFA2GicvjuYT5FLBbU2Ol4KMEsTK/s320/Christian.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4UlKUmJtHkvGAXUULGFMd4LVTHlhvLzOpkdZ1uOoaxRH3Yzy6jxeKs2J6RwkIAoFYIdP5jdW2d_1rL3Ps3dcKlRBNDZA_l5as0_arxNe8uuyZvKQVWHdIzcEW3e3Jn97-orzHG7wfrEb/s1600/Sean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4UlKUmJtHkvGAXUULGFMd4LVTHlhvLzOpkdZ1uOoaxRH3Yzy6jxeKs2J6RwkIAoFYIdP5jdW2d_1rL3Ps3dcKlRBNDZA_l5as0_arxNe8uuyZvKQVWHdIzcEW3e3Jn97-orzHG7wfrEb/s320/Sean.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I posted about Lowe's before but I had to re-post. Consider this your "up-to-the-minute" report on today's Lowe's Build and Grow class. My fabulous husband took the boys to the event this morning at Lowe's so I could catch up on my rest. You know that we celebrated our anniversary last night! I ended up not getting a swift kick in the butt as my gift even though I was pretty sure that was what was in store for me. Instead I got a romantic dinner out and flowers. Again, he is so fabulous for putting up with me for 11 years!</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">So back to the Lowe's event. I just received pictures of the boys via phone from my hubby. He said the event was well run and the kids had so much fun. I have to say that I wasn't sure how good this event would be as we have never participated in any of the Lowe's kids program, only Home Depot. Today's event started at 10 am and lasted about 45 minutes. The boys built school lockers and were even given locks with keys (their favorite part) for the lockers. The lockers were wood kits that they "built" and then they could decorate them. They used hammers and nails to assemble the lockers, no glue here! Overall, the boys gave the event a "thumbs up"!</div></div><br />
There are two future events scheduled at Lowe's. The first class is on <strong>September 10th, at 10 am.</strong> Kids will be building wooden police cars. The second scheduled class is scheduled for <strong>September 24th, at 10 AM.</strong> Your kids will be building wooden fire trucks. If your kids are anything like mine, you need to sign up for both of these! Classes do fill up, so register today<br />
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<a href="http://lowesbuildandgrow.com/Home.aspx">Click here to sign up!</a><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><img border="0" height="241" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaT9O2twGUx0MXZxgOCM2w7ugdoIPeEEfVJR4x6YM6rGFAK6WOyIBQZGa7a_-hoXxOFSxZVw0nCyowiLNSISUmd8OJWIJdoWifcMaU9vdFkAmhfI5fIjERd3y6yt4cE8sjAdgZbyG3uL3v/s320/Firetruck.jpg" width="320" /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGv-22SblHodLovC7YFyecV-bWj68ujjC8ZjNWltyrcNCKjbP56t3le5aN-TnIlYyKX5InmsznanVC9izT5uMVb8kIgwsGsECbtDxVTHBRi1PoNV8AsYJRKeY4lZeIa7F4cFK6O5_Z1BU/s1600/police.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGv-22SblHodLovC7YFyecV-bWj68ujjC8ZjNWltyrcNCKjbP56t3le5aN-TnIlYyKX5InmsznanVC9izT5uMVb8kIgwsGsECbtDxVTHBRi1PoNV8AsYJRKeY4lZeIa7F4cFK6O5_Z1BU/s320/police.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
Here are details of Lowe's Build & Grow classes:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Lowe's programs are reccommend for kids first grade through fifth grade. Lowe's projects are always made of wood. You MUST register online in order to sign up for the class. Don't wait as the classes do fill up! Also, the first 50 kids to register and be present at the store at 10am will receive a kit, aprons and goggles, in addition to all the materials to make their project. AND it's FREE!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Remember that your child must be at least 5 years of age and accompanied by an adult who can assist with them with their project. </div>Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-50747657343179455652011-08-24T05:53:00.000-07:002011-08-24T09:12:24.878-07:00The Homework BasketThis is not a normal post for me but in honor of "Back to School", I figured you wouldn't mind plus I was told I "HAD to post this". Soooo, here you go, <i>Aggie!</i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLVFXCHsiCCyWvFPKb78OdjaqWhPq_10ZL5cPIPivpupzmR9K34F_bfshyqW13Vt7nWPNy5ZPZiwiXn1W3s-ZOypo255XU_P4RYn_5XZBS7l6n32GMdtWS5OF9GnzRXpDqrSHevXPjDW7n/s1600/2011-08-22+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLVFXCHsiCCyWvFPKb78OdjaqWhPq_10ZL5cPIPivpupzmR9K34F_bfshyqW13Vt7nWPNy5ZPZiwiXn1W3s-ZOypo255XU_P4RYn_5XZBS7l6n32GMdtWS5OF9GnzRXpDqrSHevXPjDW7n/s320/2011-08-22+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The other day a friend was over and upon seeing my "homework basket" said she needed to do something like that for her daughter, who just started first grade. Then, in passing, I mentioned something about the homework basket to another friend and she said "you HAVE to blog about that". Who would be interested in reading about a homework basket? The more I thought about it, the more I realized that the homework basket is worthy of sharing. I don't know about you but I have one son who protests EVERY day about doing his homework. This basket makes homework a much calmer time in our house. We might always stress about the fact that we HAVE to do homework but we never have the stress of having to search for a sharpened pencil, a certain color crayon, scissors or a highlighter. It's all in one place and it's accessible to my kids. And my favorite thing.....it's easy to clean up! <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjd2IlNJB3sAXuHPysygEc0y4o0apO9Jli3qcLIdfZTyTK-LRY_p4tNjOsDkaUV5XlJ_fSwiO3Koovdcbb0h6eEHuOago7ATmBez14TkdoVyzjCEbGBpalSTU9vj-Gw5wBduxoERCxkSc/s1600/2011-08-23+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjd2IlNJB3sAXuHPysygEc0y4o0apO9Jli3qcLIdfZTyTK-LRY_p4tNjOsDkaUV5XlJ_fSwiO3Koovdcbb0h6eEHuOago7ATmBez14TkdoVyzjCEbGBpalSTU9vj-Gw5wBduxoERCxkSc/s320/2011-08-23+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxCNF1_jqrTR8QdJjRXrMQMzz766jNYwsJ7SwsCJ37QnnyCsPxjOiW9kPBZbEGEICvJWX7T40LwO7c-7FDuHYq-S5p5Qnz4Hb2kRNkEKYwfHaleCohFSIae157757pQriqh50tyixhOrZ/s1600/2011-08-23+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxCNF1_jqrTR8QdJjRXrMQMzz766jNYwsJ7SwsCJ37QnnyCsPxjOiW9kPBZbEGEICvJWX7T40LwO7c-7FDuHYq-S5p5Qnz4Hb2kRNkEKYwfHaleCohFSIae157757pQriqh50tyixhOrZ/s320/2011-08-23+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">My homework basket sits on a shelf in my living room near the kitchen table where my kids do their homework. I couldn't tell you where I got this basket. Ok, I might have an issue with baskets. I just counted 12 large baskets in my home. Most of them have a purpose or are decoration, so I tell myself. I have baskets to have an attractive place to store doggie toys to magazines in the bathroom. Anyway, I like baskets. This homework basket is nice because it's has a handle for the kids to haul it around and it's sturdy enough that it won't break when my boys pretend that the stapler is a basketball. Inside, I purchased zip bags to hold colored pencils, already sharpened pencils and pencil sharpeners, markers, scissors and hole punchers, post it notes and index cards, liquid glue and glue sticks, free homework passes, crayons and some fun stickers, etc. It's all in there and the zip bags are easy to open and close and clear so you can see what is in it before grabbing one. </div></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTa59XeYmL-GvA5NLpOqr7REVBgLdDP6qLOBqGuP0qi3uV6spf9Hm8hAmhe3L5ecFmr8l3xr5ng_QMwTQWmWGIGfSQX5kdA709hgkfM6xNPbWYTqFaciNwPYA-_FsCCNZU_dNIzhl_M-V/s1600/2011-08-23+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTa59XeYmL-GvA5NLpOqr7REVBgLdDP6qLOBqGuP0qi3uV6spf9Hm8hAmhe3L5ecFmr8l3xr5ng_QMwTQWmWGIGfSQX5kdA709hgkfM6xNPbWYTqFaciNwPYA-_FsCCNZU_dNIzhl_M-V/s320/2011-08-23+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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The homework basket came about because I needed somewhere to put all these school supplies. I couldn't just leave them out on the counter and if they ended up in my junk drawer in the kitchen...forget about it. So, if an effort to organize all these supplies in one place, the homework basket was born. The best thing about trying to make our things more organized, I realized how much my older son appreciated just reaching for the basket when it was homework time. It started out small with just some pencils but as the homework projects grew and required more supplies, so did the basket. It was an odd plastic basket at first but then I wanted something more attractive so I decided to put one of my many baskets to work. And what about BUYING all these supplies? Did you see the Sunday ads? You can get all these supplies for pennies and make up your own basket for little $$$. Also, I am pretty sure you already have all these supplies lying around or in your own junk drawer.<br />
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I am not the most organized person. I know this about myself and am working on it. I am trying to help my children be organized. No stressful scavenger hunts when it's homework time. Just reach over to the basket and it's there. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjar5tNOT1GQyIDF8xZY9ylnOwTxrU6g85Z0GZBpYJE2xfdG-7XLRqQn2WomqKDxBwUA-UzzxcabEKy2NQOd8daGEpaBkJN6nX_b5NU1d-41z7UDk435BDkmW23i0_7nU1twjX-D8OKKd-n/s1600/2011-08-23+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjar5tNOT1GQyIDF8xZY9ylnOwTxrU6g85Z0GZBpYJE2xfdG-7XLRqQn2WomqKDxBwUA-UzzxcabEKy2NQOd8daGEpaBkJN6nX_b5NU1d-41z7UDk435BDkmW23i0_7nU1twjX-D8OKKd-n/s320/2011-08-23+012.JPG" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look how happy he is. Now, go DO YOUR HOMEWORK!</td></tr>
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Ingredients:</strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One large sturdy basket.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Four to five clear bags.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><em>(I actually got bags from Staples labeled "Check Envelope" and they were 10 cents each!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can't find them then use Ziploc bags)</em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pencils</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Big fat erasers</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pencil Sharpener</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Scissors</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Glue Stick</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Liquid Glue</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Crayons</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Colored pencils</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hole Puncher</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ruler</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Post It Notes</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Markers</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Highlighters</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Red Pen</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stickers</span></div><br />
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Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-62128986939838015292011-08-23T05:03:00.000-07:002011-08-23T06:34:18.597-07:00It's Teacher Appreciation Again...this should be a daily event!This post is all about the teachers. It's back-to-school and instead of only talking about the kids (seriously, how cute are these three?), I want to show some love to all teachers and especially the teachers who dedicate themselves to educating my two adorable sons. Thank you for all that you do. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFr1wmNzbXFnyD1qKbZWK9raYYOkBN_pHYt0dmKSpSKLQVb8duwG0YSPO2MEBIZ_-KECqB_0G7yt0tNa7laepdfm9KVaNfBaQaEu8Hbkl9UhEjD-P9IBmBJpE03Fp-_T6X7rzPS-XDk0y/s1600/2011-08-14+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFr1wmNzbXFnyD1qKbZWK9raYYOkBN_pHYt0dmKSpSKLQVb8duwG0YSPO2MEBIZ_-KECqB_0G7yt0tNa7laepdfm9KVaNfBaQaEu8Hbkl9UhEjD-P9IBmBJpE03Fp-_T6X7rzPS-XDk0y/s320/2011-08-14+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I have compiled a listing of places that offer deals for all those hard working teachers, compliments of the Department of Education. Enjoy!<br />
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<b><i><span style="color: magenta;">Attractions and Events</span></i></b><br />
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<b>DOE Teams Up With NFL Teams for 2011</b><br />
Attention all football fans! The Florida NFL teams have partnered again with the Florida Department of Education to offer discounted tickets to teachers this coming fall! Now, all three teams – the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Miami Dolphins – will offer these specially-priced tickets to key games. Discounted ticket forms are now available for all three teams! <br />
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Click on tabs found to the left of this post for TEACHER ticket offers.<br />
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<b>Gatorland</b><br />
Teachers will have free admission for the months of September and October if they bring their Teacher ID card, as well as a valid ID. <br />
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<b>Clearwater Aquarium</b><br />
Offer free admissions to teachers. <br />
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<b>Florida Aquarium</b><br />
See the Aquarium at your own pace to prepare for your field trip. Simply show proof of ID (current pay stub with teacher payroll code) at a ticket window for free admission. Family and friends are welcome but will be required to purchase their admission(s). Offer good during regular business hours. Teachers are counted in the chaperone total on field trip days. Museum also offers special "Teacher Workshops." For more information please visit: ! (Tampa) <a href="http://www.flaquarium.org/">Florida Aquarium</a><br />
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<b>Kennedy Space Center</b><br />
Free 12 Month Educator Passes to Kennedy Space Center! Discover firsthand how a field trip can enrich every student’s education with the “Educator Study Pass.” Full-time Florida and Georgia educators receive a free Annual Pass to explore the Kennedy Space Center themselves. Educators can enjoy all the benefits of admission, visit the NASA Educator Resource Center to learn about educational programs and receive new classroom materials. Teachers can also tour NASA’s launch headquarters, meet a real astronaut and watch exhilarating IMAX movies. To be eligible for an Educator's Study Pass, educators must possess a valid Florida or Georgia teacher certificate and be currently employed at an accredited school as a full-time K-12 classroom educator. To receive an Educator Study Pass, educators must present these items to the ticket agents located at the ticket plaza. Professional educators can visit the NASA Educator Resource Center (ERC) to receive information, copy NASA videotapes, reproduce software, slides and videotapes, and review lesson plans and other teaching materials. For details on available materials or to make an appointment, call the ERC at (321) 867-4090. <br />
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<b>Mote Aquarium</b><br />
Teachers, come explore the secrets of the sea for free. Mote Aquarium offers one free ticket for each teacher presenting a pay stub at our admissions desk. This offer covers one teacher only and does not extend to accompanying guests. Mote Aquarium is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 365 days a year and features more than 100 marine species, including manatees, sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and fish of all shapes and sizes. Learn more at <a href="http://www.mote.org/">Mote</a>. Also check out Mote's education programs for school groups at <a href="http://www.mote.org/education.">Mote Education Programs</a><br />
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<b>Orlando Broadway Across America</b><br />
Inquire about discount tickets for teachers, available at: <a href="http://www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/groupsales">Broadway Across America</a> Password: schoolbroadway. Upcoming shows include Legally Blonde, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Jersey Boys and STOMP. (Orlando) <br />
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<b>Orlando Museum of Art</b><br />
Inquire about annual educator pass discounted membership. Details: (407) 896-4231. (Orlando) <br />
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<b>Orlando Science Center</b><br />
Orlando Science Center is pleased to offer teachers free admission with the presentation of a valid Florida teacher ID. In addition, receive 10% off when you become an exclusive member to our center! Membership includes special discounts off our summer and school break camps and free admission to more than 250 Association of Science and Technology museums throughout the nation. For more information please visit our website: <a href="http://www.osc.org/">Orlando Science Center</a> or call (407) 514-2000.<br />
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<b>The Pier Aquarium</b><br />
Offer free admissions to teachers. <br />
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<b>Ringling Museum of Art</b><br />
Teachers receive reduced admission prices when touring the beautiful Ringling Museum in Sarasota. Visit <a href="http://www.ringling.org/Plan2.aspx?id=110">Ringling</a> for complete details. <br />
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Legoland</b><br />
If you are an active, certified teacher in the state of Florida, Legoland is giving you a FREE standard annual pass. You will need your most recent paystub, Florida photo ID and teaching certificate to receive your pass but who cares! The FREE annual pass, which is normally $129 will be free for Florida teachers.<br />
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<b>SeaWorld</b><br />
For the thirteenth year, SeaWorld Orlando thanks teachers by offering a Teacher Study Pass to all active and certified K-12 grade school instructors. The Study Pass allows unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando now through 12/31/2011, with no blackout dates. Getting the “Study Pass” is easy. Teachers simply bring their Florida teaching certificate, recent paystub and photo ID to any ticket window at SeaWorld Orlando’s front gate. There they can purchase discounted admission for family and friends. More details can be found at <a href="http://www.seaworldorlandoteachers.com./">SeaWorld</a><br />
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<b>South Florida Museum</b><br />
See the Museum, Planetarium and Aquarium at your own pace to prepare for your field trip. Simply show proof of ID at the admissions desk for free admission. Family and friends are welcome but will be required to purchase their admission(s). Offer good during regular business hours-visit <a href="http://www.southfloridamuseum.org/">South FL Museum</a> (Bradenton) <br />
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<b>Wet ‘N Wild Teacher and Staff Appreciation</b><br />
In thanks to you, for everything you do, Wet ’n Wild would like you to enjoy SPLASHtacular savings! Check out the details by clicking on the tab to the left called Wet 'N Wild Teacher Deal for presentation at the gate.<br />
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<i><b><em><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">General</span></em></b></i><br />
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<b>Sonny’s</b><br />
Join Sonny’s RU Smokin’? Club online and receive a $5 coupon off your next meal of $25 or more. Visit <a href="http://www.sonnysbbq.com/eclub/index.php">Sonny's</a> for complete details. <br />
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<b>Barnes & Noble Educator Discount program</b><br />
The Educator Discount card is free to all who qualify. You can enroll in our Educator Discount program in any Barnes & Noble retail store, as well as Bookstop, Bookstar, Doubleday, and Charlesbank. The In-store and online discount is 20% off the list price on selected items. The items must be suitable for student or classroom use. Please note that when you apply, you will be asked to provide a valid school/institutional photo ID to confirm employment. <br />
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Dell EPP</b><br />
Florida Teachers now receive Members Only pricing on all personal PCs from Dell, and Exclusive Members Only elite offers (up to 30% OFF list prices for select configurations of Dell consumer PCs). Order now by calling 1-800-695-8133, or by purchasing online at <a href="http://www.dell.com/epp">Dell </a>. To receive your exclusive discount over the phone Florida Teachers must mention Member ID# KS51647439. If you find a better deal on a new Dell home system anywhere on the http://www.dell.com home website, call an EPP specialist to beat the current Dell Home PC price and receive your Best Price Guarantee!”<br />
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<b>Discounts for Teachers</b><br />
My Education Discount is an online directory of retailers offering education and teacher discounts. Simply click the retailers below to see what discount is currently available. Visit <a href="http://www.myeducationdiscount.com/">My Education Discount</a> for complete details. Remember to check My Education Discount before you buy anything online. Enjoy! <br />
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<b>Educational Savings and More from Teacher’s Pet</b><br />
Teacher’s Pet and More, Inc., a provider of quality educational materials, is proud to offer all Florida teachers a 10% discount on any purchase order placed in any of our store locations or save 15% on any purchase order placed online. Pickup your orders locally for free, or have them shipped to your location for a small handling fee. All customers are eligible to participate in our frequent shopper program which allows you to save up to 10% on your purchases! Visit <a href="http://www.teacherspetandmore.com/">Teacher's Pet</a>for more information and to take advantage of these exciting offers. Please use coupon code “FLDOE10” during checkout. <br />
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<b>AMSOIL Synthetics</b><br />
Receive discounts of 20-25% off of AMSOIL Synthetics retail prices. To receive a wholesale price list of AMSOIL products, please send an email to wholesale@2Lu.be wholesale@2Lu.be . To order, call 407-951-4781 AMSOIL Synthetics has been producing super-premium synthetic oil since 1972 and was the first company to offer extended drain intervals up to 25,000 miles. Today AMSOIL produces lubrication products for cars, trucks, diesels, motorcycles, ATVs, marine, 2-cycle, racing and more. AMSOIL operates a regional warehouse in Orlando. Members may pick up their order at the Orlando warehouse after receiving order confirmation or have their order shipped via UPS at very reasonable rates negotiated by AMSOIL. To order, call 407-951-4781 <br />
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<b>ArtSkills</b><br />
ArtSkills was founded in 1987 in Easton, PA. It is a family owned company with a commitment to bringing quality and innovative poster making and art materials to our customers. To create an account and see if you qualify for $25 worth of supplies for teachers visit <a href="http://www.artskills.com/educator_home.php">ArtSkills</a>. <br />
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<b>Jo-Anns Fabrics and Crafts</b><br />
Teachers—show your teacher ID and receive an annual discount card that includes a one-time 20% off purchase coupon and 15% off everything throughout the year. <br />
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The Limited</b><br />
The Limited offers a 15% discount for educators and students at any Limited with a valid education ID. The education discount cannot be combined with any other coupons, but is good on sale and in-store promotions. <br />
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LOFT </b><br />
At Ann Taylor Loft, we love teachers. We’re dedicated to making it easy for you to look fabulous and for supporting the endeavors to which all teachers commit themselves in every classroom, at every school, everyday. For complete details visit<a href="http://teachers.anntaylorloft.com/">Ann Taylor Loft Teacher Deal</a>. <br />
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<b>T-Mobile</b><br />
Mobile now offers a 15% monthly discount on qualified monthly charges to all Florida Public Employees including teachers. Employees with existing T-Mobile service can get to the discount program by calling (877) 453-8824 and asking for the 15% State of Florida employee discount using Node 4025529. The Florida Public Employee program rolls up to the State of Florida 15% discount. You must agree to extend your contract for two years in order to receive the discount.<br />
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<b>One Cup Connection</b><br />
Shop for Keurig brewers & one cup coffee accessories, the largest selection of K-Cups at the best prices you've ever seen! Enter coupon code FLDOE at checkout to receive 10% off. Discount cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 12/31/2012 <br />
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<b>Overstock</b><br />
Overstock.com has extended a 10% discount to Florida Teachers—check out Overstock.com for some great deals! A new office desk, end table, or vanity? We have yard décor, futon mattresses, fashion jewelry, baby furniture, and SO much more! Use the discount code 121728 to receive your 10% discount and 202234 for free shipping on electronics! …and remember shipping is just $2.95 for EVERYTHING else! <br />
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<b>Sihle Insurance Group, Inc.</b><br />
Teachers and staff save up to 20% on your auto and home insurance! Since 1974, Sihle represents many of Florida's top rated insurance companies chosen for their strength and cost. We offer a selection of coverage, limits and deductible options that allow FL teachers to customize protection packages to fit their unique needs. We represent Travelers, AAA, The Hartford, Nationwide, GMAC, Progressive, Metlife, Chubb, and many more! Call 407-474-4880 or click on our link <a href="http://www.sihle.com/">Sihle</a><br />
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<b>Since1910.com</b><br />
Receive 10% off fine jewelry at Since1910.com. (Excludes designer jewelry). To receive this offer, use the coupon code "Floridateach10" and check out using a .edu e-mail address. Learn more about Since1910.com at <a href="http://www.since1910.com/">Since 1910</a>. <br />
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<b>Four Seasons Sunrooms</b><br />
Four Seasons Sunrooms by Distinct Design, Inc. 10% on all Four Seasons Sunrooms projects (May include sunrooms, conservatories, lanai enclosures, solariums, room additions and window replacements) For Discount Details, see: <a href="http://www.myflsunroom.com/Employee-Discounts.html">Four Seasons Sunrooms Teacher Discount</a><br />
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<b><i><span style="color: #38761d;">Lodging</span></i></b><br />
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<b>Gaylord Palms Resort</b><br />
Gaylord Palms Resort is dedicated to honoring Florida teachers, faculty and school administrators for their hard work and devotion to impacting students' lives. We're excited to continue our Florida Teacher Appreciation rate of $99 now through December 31, 2011. We invite you to share this exclusive offer with your peers. Orlando is the perfect destination for educators, with various teacher specials being offered by area theme parks and attractions. More information on Gaylord Palms Resort. To book your stay, visit: <a href="http://bit.ly/e6EbpR">Gaylord Palms</a> Use code TEACH11 when booking! <br />
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<b>Amelia Island Thanks Florida Teachers </b><br />
In appreciation of the state’s hard-working educators, Florida’s Amelia Island is offering special rates and discounts to all Florida teachers. In partnership with the Amelia Island Convention and Visitors Bureau, four of the island destination’s award-winning accommodators are offering deals that put teachers at the head of the class. <a href="http://www.ameliaisland.com/florida-teachers-2010/">Amelia Island</a><br />
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<b>Holiday Inn Express-Siesta Key/Sarasota</b><br />
Summer special for Florida Educators at this hotel located 1 mile from Siesta Beach, the #1 Beach in the US! Rates start at $69 per night plus tax and include hot breakfast, microwave and fridge in every room, heated pool and hot tub. For more information, please click on the link or contact our front desk toll free - 800-930-4439 - mention the Florida Teacher's Special Rate. See you soon! <a href="http://www.hiexsarasota.com/florida-teachers-special.cfm">Holiday Inn Siesta Key Deal</a><br />
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<b>Comfort Inn Oceanside – Deerfield Beach</b><br />
Teachers and Family Special Family rates from $65.00 plus tax. Call (866) 866-2326 or (954) 428-0650 for complete details. Be sure to ask for “Teachers Special Rate.”<br />
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<b>Comfort Suites Sawgrass</b><br />
Our all suite hotel is ideally located near restaurants, shopping, and major exits. With free deluxe breakfast, free high speed internet, spacious suites, heated pool and hot tub, you are assured an enjoyable and relaxing stay. Present your teacher ID when making your reservation. Call and ask for the special rate for Teachers (954) 343-1322 OR gm.fl656@choicehotels.com . <a href="http://www.comfortsuites.com/hotel/fl656">Comfort Suites Sawgrass</a><br />
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<b>Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld</b><br />
Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld would like to salute teachers by extending our “Heroes Salute” promotion to them as well as the armed forces and first responders. After all Teachers are Heroes Too! <br />
The rate is 50% off our best available rate (subject to availability) through summer.<br />
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<b>D.P.Hotels</b><br />
Do you need to get away? Our hotels provide great comfort, affordable rates and great locations. Visit our web site at <a href="http://www.dphotels.net/">DP Hotels</a>, select your property, and ask for the Teacher rate when making your reservation. <br />
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<b>Galleria Palms Hotel</b><br />
Galleria Palms Hotel would like to thank teachers for all you do. To show our appreciation, we invite you to take advantage of our Teacher Appreciate Rate and save 20% on your next stay, plus complimentary daily breakfast. Enjoy all the thrills and excitement that Orlando and Kissimmee has to offer. Refer to the code TEACH. To learn more, visit <a href="http://www.galleriakissimmeehotel.com/ap-teacher-appreciation-rate-1301517389.php.">Galleria Palms</a><br />
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<b>Holiday Inn Express - Bradenton</b>Bradenton’s Holiday Inn Express, located at I-75 and SR 64, is offering teachers a special rate of $75 per night from May 1-September 30; the offer includes a complimentary breakfast buffet. Guests need to call the property directly at (941) 757-5556. For complete details visit <a href="http://www.hiexbradenton.com/">Holiday Inn Express Bradenton</a><br />
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<b>Holiday Inn Express Juno Beach/Jupiter</b><br />
A boutique resort, steps from the beach. Each room has its own private balcony with a view of the ocean or our heated pool & tropical courtyard. To book a reservation please call and ask for the “West Palm Beach.com” rate of 5/1/11-12/31/11 $79.00. Toll free: (800) 272-6380 Hotel: (561) 622-4366 or visit us at<a href="http://www.hiejuno.com./">Holiday Inn Express Juno Beach</a>13950 US Hwy 1, Juno Beach, Florida 33408<br />
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<b>Omphoy Ocean Resort</b><br />
Preferred Hotels and Resorts,Palm Beach, Florida, United States<br />
Teachers & Educators can enjoy a discount of 30% Off Room Rates through September, American Breakfast for Two Daily, and 20% Off Resort Dining.<br />
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<b>ResortQuest</b><br />
ResortQuest is proud to now offer a 15% discount for teachers and educational staff. Stay two or more nights at select ResortQuest properties from Gulf Shores, Alabama to Panama City Beach, Florida, and receive a 15% discount. Call 588-208-2029 and ask for promotion $EDCU <br />
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<b>The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach</b><br />
Special Florida Teachers rate of $199.00 per night plus 11% tax. Our special 2011 Promotional Rate to all Florida Teachers gives you and your family the opportunity to experience a family friendly ocean front beach resort and Eau Spa by Cornelia. This promotion includes a Resort View Room (1 king or 2 double beds) and valet parking for one car. The special rate is available during May 4, 2011 – September 30, 2011 (this promotion is based upon availability at time of booking and cannot be combined with any other offers). To make reservations please call The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach room reservations at (561) 533-6000 (refer to rate code: TEAP). You must show a valid Florida Teachers or Florida District ID upon check in.<br />
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<b>Sheraton Sand Key Resort</b><br />
We would like to welcome all State of Florida Teachers to our island, where our backyard is the Gulf of Mexico. Sink your toes into 10 acres of powder-white sand at our exclusive beach resort located on Clearwater Beach. The Sheraton Sand Key is offering teachers extra special rates from June 1, 2011 until the end of the year - $129.00 Single/Double plus 12% tax per room per night. Children 18 years and under stay in the same room at no extra charge and No Resort or Parking fees are added on. Rates are subject to availability. Please Call Reservations at 800-456-SAND and ask for the "Florida Teacher's" special rate. More hotel information on our website at <a href="http://www.sheratonsandkey.com/">Sheraton Sand Key</a><br />
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<b>Sheraton Suites Plantation</b><br />
We are introducing our Summer Teacher Package. In appreciation of your service we are offering a special Service Salute Getaway with a special 50% discount*, just for you! *Valid Education Employment ID required at check-in. Based on availability, valid through December 31, 2011. Find and book Sheraton Suites Plantation. <br />
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<b>Steinhatchee Landing Resort</b><br />
Steinhatchee Landing Resort is offering a 50% discount for teachers who want to get away during their Spring Break this year. Stay four or more nights in any of the resort’s 50, one- to four-bedroom cottage accommodations and receive 50 percent off your entire stay. The discount can save guests anywhere from $280 to $764 for a four-night stay (depending on booking dates and cottage type). For complete details visit <a href="http://www.steinhatcheelanding.com/">Steinhatchee Landing</a>. To book this special, call toll-free (800) 584-1709 or (352) 498-3513. You must mention “We Love Teachers” when booking. *Subject to availability. Some restrictions may apply. Savings will reflect on final bill at checkout. <br />
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Hope all you teachers enjoyed this list of "perks". If you know of anymore, feel free to contact me so I can update this posting. Again, we appreciate all that teachers do for our most valuable treasure....our kids. Thank you!Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-5961189773471494642011-08-22T08:33:00.001-07:002011-08-22T16:44:14.478-07:00FREE Teachers in Legoland and other Field Trip ExcitementWhoot! whoot! Legoland is opening in Winter Haven, FL on October15th!<br />
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Now, my kids are beyond excited! BEYOND! I just got a little more excited this morning after I read something in the paper about <b>FREE TICKETS FOR TEACHERS</b>. Yup, Florida teachers are eligible for a free standard annual pass. I know one Mommy, Heather, who is going to be extra stoked as her young man, Oliver the Lego Master, is one of the most avid Lego lovers I know. <br />
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So, here it is.... <br />
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If you are an active, certified teacher in the state of Florida, Legoland is giving you a <b>FREE standard annual pass</b>. You will need your most recent paystub, Florida photo ID and teaching certificate to receive your pass but who cares! The FREE annual pass, which is normally $129 will be free for Florida teachers. I told you we needed to appreciate our teachers!!!!! Thank you teachers AND Legoland!<br />
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I checked out the Legoland site and found out even MORE interesting and fun and <b>practically FREE </b>items. Legoland is offering a significant discount for school field trips. For trips taking place from November 2011 through April 2012, the price is just $5 a ticket. There is a minimum of 15 paying students and additional adults and siblings may be added. Now, I have to work on convincing Heathrow Elementary to approve Legoland as a good fieldtrip option. Check out their very cool field trip programs, <a href="http://florida.legoland.com/en/buy_tickets/Groups/education_programs/">Legoland Educational Programs</a>. Learning and fun is one powerful combination!<br />
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I don't want to forget our homeschoolers. Homeschoolers, of 15 or more, can purchase self guided field trip tickets for $25 each. One complementary ticket is given for every 15 paid tickets. Check out the Legoland website for more details.<br />
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Regular day ticket prices are $65 for adults, $55 for kids & seniors. We have been doing our research before opening day, AAA has the best rates for the tickets if you are looking to purchase before you go.<br />
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Hope you get out to Legoland this year and have some fun!Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0Florida, USA27.6648274 -81.51575350000001724.3624974 -85.346048500000023 30.9671574 -77.68545850000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-11180546782157869912011-08-22T07:06:00.000-07:002011-08-22T08:54:08.855-07:00Letterboxing? WTH?What is it? <br />
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<b>Letterboxing</b> is a mix of treasure hunting, art, navigation, and exploring interesting, scenic, and sometimes remote places. I guess it all started from an ancient custom of placing a rock on a mountain once you climbed to the summit. We just call it an adventure and it ends up being a fun dedicated time to be with family. Oh, the adventure usually involves the outdoors and it's <i>free</i>. Those are all the requirements that I need!<br />
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Here is the basic idea. Someone, called a <b>hider</b>, hides a waterproof box somewhere, containing at least a logbook and a carved rubber stamp, and perhaps other goodies. The <b>hider</b> then usually writes directions to the box (called clues), which can be straightforward, cryptic, or any degree in between. Often the clues involve map coordinates or compass bearings from landmarks, but they don't have to. Believe me when I say, if I read that there are compass directions you can be sure that I am staying FAR away from that particular adventure! Anyway, once the clues are written, someone in possession of the clues, called a <b>hunter</b>, attempts to find the box. In addition to the clue and any maps or tools needed to solve it, the <b>hunters</b> should carry at least a pencil, personal rubber stamp, inkpad, and personal logbook. When the <b>hunter</b> successfully deciphers the clue and finds the box, stamp the logbook in the box with personal stamp, and stamp personal logbook with the box's stamp. The <b>hider's</b> logbook keeps a record of all its visitors, and the <b>hunters</b> keep a record of all the boxes they have found, in their personal logbooks. I am thinking that these <b>hiders</b>, are not people with kids. After we read the clues and find the box, I always marvel at the people who have the time and patience to do all this. Well, whomever you are, thank you!!!<br />
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The boys and I have letterboxed all over our town and usually pick easy ones. We did pick a "harder" one once that required walking a little far and then turning around different degrees to walk in yet another direction. Needless to say, we spent an hour walking and never found the box. My husband and I were completely annoyed until we realized how much fun my boys had running around the park, measuring how many paces (steps), how far to turn this way or that, etc. So, it really is about the journey and not the destination. Interesting! It's amazing but when we talk about letterboxing, my boys talk about that particular adventure the most even though it didn't result in finding anything.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/k1yrzKMLiHY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>So, at the very minimum you will need the clues. You should also have a personal stamp, inkpad, personal logbook, and a pencil (for writing in the box's logbook, if you want). We have a simple logbook ( .50 cents at Michaels) and a simple stamp (a bear claw, which used to be our school mascot). We keep the log book and stamp in a Ziploc bag in our car plus some printed out local letterbox clues just in case. I have been known to surprise them in the past by pulling out a letterbox clue on the way home from school. <br />
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Here is the website that I use when we letterbox: <a href="http://www.atlasquest.com/">Atlas Quest</a><br />
I like this site because you can search by location, which is what we usually do. And they specify if the letterbox adventures is a mental puzzler (which means no thank you to me and the boys), if you have to hike to it or if you can drive by, pet friendly, compass needed (oh, hell no), etc. I choose the letterbox and then print it out, another easy function on this website. There are many other websites out there but this one was the best for our needs.<br />
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I highly recommend trying out letterboxing. My kids and I truly enjoyed every aspect of it, from picking out their stamp, to choosing with adventure to take, running all over like crazy people in search of the letterbox, to signing their names and stamps in the logbook. So much fun with just a little effort and will cost you nothing (like!) but a little together time with your kids.Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-44781213741022066242011-08-18T09:02:00.001-07:002011-08-18T19:25:41.498-07:00Best Family Outing Ever!<span style="font-family:georgia;color:#000000;">A couple of years ago, a friend of mine tried to discourage me from going on one of the BEST outdoor family outings. She said <em>"Don't go to the corn maze. It's hot and dirty." </em>Hot? It's Florida so that is a given. Dirty? That's a bad thing? If you know me, you know my favorite quote and that is..... "If you are dirty, you must have had a good time!" So, thank goodness I didn't listen and the boys and I went out to <strong>Long & Scott farm Corn Maze</strong>, near Zellwood, for a day of hot fun and DIRT! My boys love, love, love, this place! <br />
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What is this corn maze? It's a maze in a corn field. Seriously, it's a corn field that has a path carved out to make a maze and it's located at <strong>Long & Scott Farms,</strong> a beautiful farm 30 miles northwest of Orlando, a short drive from anywhere in Central Florida. (It took me 30 minutes to get there from Lake Mary. ) The corn maze part of the farm has been expanded this year to four additional weekends so you have even MORE time to get lost in 7 acres of maze. Other activities, down on the farm, are a 60-foot tube slide (pure awesomeness), a living tree maze, catch-and-release fishing, playground, wet maze, sand pit and children’s activities, including the new “jumping pillow,” a sort of bounce house without walls. We haven't experienced the "Corny Jumping Pillow" but all I can say is <em>"yeeehaw"!</em> <br />
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Each year, <strong>Long & Scott's Corn Maze </strong>has a theme and this year it's "renewable energy". Love it! The "big" maze is a live field with a bridge, multiple choices on every pathway and a "Maze Master". The maze provides a safe environment to enjoy an exciting new and outside adventure! You answer questions by finding clues in the corn. You can use Maize-o-Vision, a decoding system, to see the map hidden on your game sheet. There is something new to find and a decision to make around every corner. The maze makes learning fun! Learning and fun? Can I get another <em>"yeeeehaw</em>"?!!! <br />
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We went to the corn maze last year , closer to Halloween to get us in "the mood". It was still pretty hot in October. We live in Florida and it's hot, get used to it. The corn maze is open until December 11th so you can wait to a later date if you are worried about being hot. When you arrive at the <strong>Long & Scott Farms</strong>, you will definitely feel like you are on a farm. There is vast open spaces, crops, old barn and a country store. My boys were so excited that they were trying to jump out of the car before we even stopped. Remember I said that my kids would much prefer running in a field over anything else? So, we get there and buy our *tickets, go through a short "orientation" about how to make it through the maze and then we are off. We chose the smaller maze because we were with a large group of small children and we wanted to play on everything and be able to make it though the maze without running out of time. We will probably attempt to go through the larger maze this year as my kids are getting older. This doesn't mean that small kids, even stroller kids, can't enjoy the Corn Maze. Kids under 3 are free so it bring them with a stroller and plan on going through the maze, make sure they are strollers with the "big" wheels! <br />
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The other things we "wanted to play on" included everything from a 60 foot slide, fishing pond, hay ride, sand pit, wet maze (a maze that is equipped with sprinklers, whoot! whoot!), climbing tower and did I mention the 60 foot slide? The kids love the slide. In order to get to the maze at the entrance, you either walk through a tunnel (yay) or slide down the big slide (triple yay!). I bet you can guess what we did. And the slide isn't just for kids so get on it, Mom!!!!! Don't forget to pack a big lunch and plenty of water in your cooler as they have penty of covered picnic tables for you to use. There are no water fountains but they do have food vendors off to the side, make note that they are CASH ONLY for you Moms like me who never seem to carry cash. The Farm does take Master Card, Visa & Discover in the Market and for Maze tickets, though. There IS an ATM on site! <br />
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The maze will be open <strong>10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and 1 pm to 5 pm on Sundays.</strong> The last ticket for the maze is sold at 3 pm. Don't be lame and show up at 2:30! The corn maze will be open to groups of 20 or more on a pre-arranged basis on Tuesdays through Fridays. They are closed on Thanksgiving but open the day before and after Thanksgiving for the general public. What a great idea to run off all that food the day after Thanksgiving at the corn maze instead of being stuck in stores shopping! <br />
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*Admission is $11 for ages 17 and older, $9 for ages 3-16. Ages 16 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. You can buy combo tickets, which include discounts on hay rides and the "Corny Jumping Pillow" by buying them at the time you get your maze tickets. Also, you can purchase just hayride tickets for $4. Orlando Playground blog followers will be offered a discount shortly so check back and there will be contests and promotions on <strong>Long & Scott's </strong>website, which I will keep you posted on! </span> <br />
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Check out the Long & Scott Corn Maze website if you need more information: <span style="font-family:georgia;color:#000000;"></span> <br />
<span style="font-family:georgia;color:#000000;"><a href="http://www.longandscottfarms.com/maze_adventures.html">http://www.longandscottfarms.com/maze_adventures.html</a> <br />
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<strong>Long and Scott Farms</strong> plans to open <strong>Scott’s Country Market </strong>on Sept. 16, the day before the maze begins operation and offers freshly harvested produce from the farm and local growers, potted plants and sod. They also carry their own line of ams, jellies, relishes and syrups and customized gift boxes and baskets. <br />
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So, put on your grungy play clothes, some closed toe shoes and plan your family outing by heading over to <strong>Long & Scott Farm's Corn Maze</strong>. I promise you, if you don't mind a little dirt and sweat, that it's worth the trip! Best family outing ever....... </span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.longandscottfarms.com/maze_adventures.html"></a> <br />
Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-39409174160544639372011-08-18T07:47:00.000-07:002011-08-18T08:13:28.507-07:00Teacher Appreciation Wine Tasting this Saturday!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAcpcHCC_KEk9Cu1r8hhE6U85pnlNlQOLtrhB5x1pbSMZZDMeDWc_mqLVY7xnQ7DU1JK_c2mxvK3LczxBJuoGOSTGiRd8m97BHHB6D5gJq5W590Dyz_Ho0ShQv0a1bZUf7nJknKYaIHIAG/s1600/Cork+and+Olive.jpg"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><img style="WIDTH: 254px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642208738744890946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAcpcHCC_KEk9Cu1r8hhE6U85pnlNlQOLtrhB5x1pbSMZZDMeDWc_mqLVY7xnQ7DU1JK_c2mxvK3LczxBJuoGOSTGiRd8m97BHHB6D5gJq5W590Dyz_Ho0ShQv0a1bZUf7nJknKYaIHIAG/s320/Cork+and+Olive.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"> </span>
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<br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">It's not all about the kids! Take a minute and look at who is spending a large chunk of time with your kids and teaching them so very much. After you figure out that I am talking about your child's teacher, APPRECIATE! Thank you, teachers!
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<br />That being said, your teacher needs a moment to relax and be appreciated. Teachers, stop reading this blog post and correcting my grammer and head over to Cork & Olive to their Teacher Appreciation Wine Tasting. The tasting is THIS </span><span style="font-family:georgia;"><strong>Saturday, August 20th, from 5 pm until 10 pm at the Lake Mary Cork & Olive, located at 4247 W Lake Mary Blvd, Lake Mary, FL 32746. </strong>I just love Cork & Olive! If you have never been, it's so wonderful. Relaxation, conversation and wine at one convenient place!
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<br />The wine tasting is a free party for Teachers, Friends and Family. Again, it's free! There will be finger foods and wines from California, South Africa, Italy, Germany.
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<br />Mrs. Carbone, I expect you to be there and bring Mrs. Pelter and Mrs. Leslie as I am pretty sure they need a glass of wine after spending the week with my two boys!
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<br />Cheers!</span>
<br />Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-75722794875587507252011-08-10T21:01:00.000-07:002011-08-14T17:53:12.006-07:00Best Place to Have Your Kids Party!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHLS2kXWC6V9AwjVyfHsDRvnFKAykqcpGbTTdADTTEhrpORFOLRXkvHyzF-LmaMYoo-6-e1McbhGnxi7sS4s4ANo78OskTqT4uACPUd5dtLSlIVf8dpyD3NYDxHOodkeGdJ63-5QeHRzy/s1600/IMG_3953.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639601161912109586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHLS2kXWC6V9AwjVyfHsDRvnFKAykqcpGbTTdADTTEhrpORFOLRXkvHyzF-LmaMYoo-6-e1McbhGnxi7sS4s4ANo78OskTqT4uACPUd5dtLSlIVf8dpyD3NYDxHOodkeGdJ63-5QeHRzy/s320/IMG_3953.JPG" /></a>
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<br />I am not sure what your take is on birthday parties but mine is big. The bigger the party, the better the party! I don’t mean big in regards to expensive and fancy. I think parties should be big in regards to people. I grew up as one of eleven children and even “just family” parties were big. ALL of my family lives out of state which means no big family parties for us. So, my family parties now include our other “family”, all our friends, the entire class, the neighbors, that great kid they played t-ball with 2 years ago, etc. People matter to me. So, I am not happy when I am restricted by how many people I can invite to a party. If you have been to one of my parties or one of my boys’ parties, you know what I am talking about. We want everyone to feel loved, so we invite everyone. My kind of party place is one that can hold as many people as I like.
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<br />The other side of the party coin is having the opportunity to be outside and enjoying nature. When my boys were about two years old, I used to say that they were happiest just running in a field as opposed to playing at their favorite indoor bounce/gym/slider/jumper place. It’s still true. Ask either of my sons where their favorite place is and they will tell you it’s the creek near their Grandma’s house. Not Universal, not Disney, not the movies…
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<br />What is the name of this magical, fabulous, birthday place where you can invite everyone you know and your kids can hang out with nature and run free without hearing, “slow down” and “don’t touch” and only cost you $75? The best birthday place ever is <strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#cc0000;">Oakhaven Farms in Sorrento, FL.</span></strong> What? Am I talking about the strawberry picking place that is out in the middle of nowhere? Maybe you have never been there. Maybe you have. Seriously, it is the perfect birthday place.
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<br />First, where is <span style="color:#cc0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Oakhaven Farms</strong></span>?</span> It’s in Sorrento, Fl, about 15 minutes from the Weikiva Reserve area (Route 46 in Sanford). They have directions on their website so don’t worry. It's really not that far. Second, if you want to have your party there it will cost you $75 for the rental. The rental cost gets you a reserved shady spot with lots of picnic tables and a fire pit off to the side (far enough away so you don’t have to worry about kids running and falling in!) for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows. Your party spot is right smack in the middle of the strawberry fields and under some old Oak trees. The best part about this spot is you can fit as many people there as you want. There are 5 picnic tables there and if you are worried that there isn't enough seating, don't! Most people won't sit still when they come to Oakhaven Farms. My kids didn’t sit the entire time...well maybe just for cake.
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<br />Now, when you are ready to reserve Oakhaven Farms for your party, call Harry, the owner, at (352) 735-1996. He handles the rental and is as friendly and laid back as one can get. He will coordinate your rental. Your $50 gets your reserved spot for the day and he doesn’t care what time you get there and when you leave as long as it’s before they close for the day. Make sure you don’t have time constraints when you come here so you have plenty of time to relax and enjoy all that is there. You will want to bring your own food and drinks as the offerings at Oakhaven Farms is limited to hot dogs and milkshakes. A few of us roasted some hot dogs and marshmallows. Oakhaven Farms does not have marshmallows so bring your own and sticks, too! Harry will politely ask you to buy his hot dogs if decide to roast some. Sounds reasonable to me. In addition to the best party spot ever, you also get a tractor hayride, or two, for your entire group, through their Christmas tree farm. There is also a super fun zip line for the kids. If you have little ones and are worried about the zipline, there are two sizes of zipline for big and small kids. There is a playground and a good old fashioned tire swing. There is a great little store where you can buy jams and jellies and homemade strawberry milkshakes.
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<br />I don’t do goody bags anymore for my kids. No Mom wants all that “stuff” in their house and I don’t want to buy all that “stuff” either. Plus, have you tried making 30 goody bags? Ugh. So, our goody bags were empty quart containers. For $2.50 each, the kids went out with their containers and picked their own strawberries and took them home with them. Now, that is a “goody” that I can get behind. If you want to go all out, there is plenty of room to add a bounce house or two or a petting zoo but it’s not necessary. Oakhaven Farms has their own little zoo with their funny lab and Border Collie. Really, having a party here is all about being outside and having space to explore and have fun. So glad that I didn't go overboard with extras.
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<br />There is just one drawback about having your party at Oackhaven Farms, you can only have a party here during strawberry season. Strawberry season is from January through May. We got lucky the year of my son’s 5th birthday because even though his birthday is in December, the season started early that year so there was just enough strawberries to have a party in late December.
<br />
<br />Their website is <a href="http://www.berriesandtrees.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#cc0000;"><strong>www.berriesandtrees.com</strong></span></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#cc0000;"><strong>.</strong></span> It’s not real elaborate but has just enough posted so you know what they offer plus their basic contact information. I recommend heading out to Oakhaven Farms for a day of strawberry picking before booking your party. It’s a great place to visit even if you aren’t having a party. We have spent many days, during strawberry season, picking strawberries and then just hanging out enjoying the space.
<br />
<br />I still think about my son’s 5th birthday party. He mentions it every once in a while, too. I asked him yesterday which place was the best for his past birthday parties and he didn't hesitate....the strawberry place!!!! It is truly the best place to have a birthday party for your little kid and even your big kid, too!</span></div>
<br />Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-43570345435732929902011-08-07T17:29:00.000-07:002011-09-17T03:29:08.163-07:00Kids Eat FREE!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuVEGD0cIDhSLuszPwZ5vpv0vGvmP00bHINHeyyEt9GsflASvjEDIOEO_t4ggzSasvMxIyL1CDYjUcDQ7dKhAiqyLR2IAP-iznIJz_GWfWs_hsxdwA7bp0ypULTPduCZACan0U4QTllWC/s1600/sean.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638449753418936178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuVEGD0cIDhSLuszPwZ5vpv0vGvmP00bHINHeyyEt9GsflASvjEDIOEO_t4ggzSasvMxIyL1CDYjUcDQ7dKhAiqyLR2IAP-iznIJz_GWfWs_hsxdwA7bp0ypULTPduCZACan0U4QTllWC/s320/sean.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<div><span style="font-family: times new roman;"><strong>If you love eating out with your kids, raise your hand.</strong></span></div><br />
<div><span style="font-family: times new roman;"><em>Strange, I don't see many hands up.</em> Going out to eat with kiddos is not easy. I know it's better now than when my kids were 2 and under but I am still a firm believer that I should get paid to go out to eat with my kids and I get a mandatory free glass of wine to go with it. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: times new roman;"></span></div><br />
<div><span style="font-family: times new roman;">So, that being said. I haven't found a restaurant that will pay us to bring our kids to eat but I have found plenty that offer free meals for the kids. Check out my listing of free or "almost free" kids meals in the Orlando area. Keep in mind that each establishment is different in what they offer for free. Some only offer one kids meal per adult, drinks may or may not be included as well as dessert. So, before you head out for your adventure dinner with the kids, call ahead to get the specifics as each deal is slightly different and can change at any time. </span></div><br />
<span style="color: #6600cc; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 130%;"><strong><em>Deals by Restaurant </em></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Gators Dockside</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free <strong>Tuesdays</strong> from 5:30PM until 8:30PM with the purchase of an adult meal. Clown & face painting! <span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Crispers</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free <strong>Tuesdays and Saturdays </strong>ALL DAY with the purchase of one or more adult entress.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>Kobe</strong></span> <br />
Kids eat free on <strong>Tuesdays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: #009900;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>The Melting Pot</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free on <strong>Sundays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #3333ff;"><strong></strong></span><span style="color: #3333ff;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Beef O'Brady</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free on <strong>Tuesdays</strong> from 4 PM until 10 PM with the purchase of an adult meal. </span><strong></strong><strong><span style="color: #6600cc;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="color: #6600cc;">Denny's</span></strong><span style="color: #6600cc;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free <strong>Tuesday and Saturdays</strong> from 4 PM until 10 PM with a purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>Papa Joe's (Lake Mary Blvd. location)</strong></span> <br />
Two kids eat for .99 cents each off of kids menu <strong>on Mondays and Tuesdays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: red;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Jersey Mike's</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids Eat Free all day on <strong>Wednesdays and Sundays</strong> with the purchase of one adult meal. <span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #ff6600;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Red Brick Pizza</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat FREE every <strong>Tuesday</strong>! Get a FREE kids cheese pizza with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: #009900;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Texas Roadhouse</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids meals are $1.99 (almost free!) on <strong>Tuesdays</strong>. Kids games in the coral from 5 PM until 8 PM. <span style="color: #3333ff;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #3333ff;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Steak and Shake</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free on <strong>Saturdays and Sundays </strong>ALL day with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: #6600cc;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Bob's Big Boy</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free all day on <strong>Tuesdays</strong> with adult meal. <span style="color: red;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: red; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Dicky's BBQ </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free ALL day on <strong>Sundays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #ff6600;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Carmela's of Brooklyn Restaurant Pizzeria (Longwood)</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free <strong>Monday and Tuesdays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. My hubby's FAVORITE! <span style="color: #009900;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Swamp House River Front Grill (Debary)</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free <strong>Tuesday Nights </strong>with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: #3333ff;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="color: #351c75;">Liam's Fitzpatrick (Lake Mary)</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free on <strong>Wednesdays</strong> from 4:00 until 10:00 PM and $2.00 sundaes! </span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="color: #6600cc;">Hurricane Grill and Wings (Longwood)</span></strong> <br />
Kids eat free all day <strong>Mondays </strong>with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: red;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Amigos Restaurant (Altamonte Springs)</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free all day on <strong>Tuesdays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #ff6600;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>5 & Diner (Orlando)</strong> </span></span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free <strong>Wednesdays and Sundays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. <strong><br />
<span style="color: #009900;"><br />
Maria Bonita (Orlando)</span></strong> <br />
Kids eat free <strong>Tuesdays </strong>4 PM until close with the purchase of an adult meal. <span style="color: #3333ff;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #3333ff;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Crave (Mall of Millennia</strong>) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free on <strong>Sundays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. </span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #6600cc;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><br />
Christopher's Italian Restaurant (Longwood)</strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat free on <strong>Mondays</strong> with the purchase of an adult meal. </span><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
Metro Burger</span></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kids eat for just .99 cents on Tuesdays and Sundays with paying adult. </span><strong><span style="color: #009900;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span></strong><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Brusters</span></span></strong><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <br />
All kids under 40 inches tall receive a free baby cone. Doggies and kitties also receive free Doggy Sundaes.</span><br />
<em><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: 130%;"><br />
</span></strong></span></span></em><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><strong><span style="color: #6600cc;"><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>Deals by Day of the week</em> </span></span></span></strong><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Monday</strong>: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Christopher's Italian Restaurant <br />
Papa Joe's <br />
Hurricane Grill and Wings <br />
Carmela's of Brooklyn Restaurant Pizzeria </span><strong><span style="color: #ff6600;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #ff6600;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">T</span></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ff6600;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">uesday:</span></span></strong></strong></span><strong><span style="color: #ff6600; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Crispers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Maria Bonita <br />
Amigos Restaurant <br />
Carmela's of Brooklyn Restaurant Pizzeria <br />
Swamp House River Front Grill <br />
Bob's Big Boy <br />
Red Brick Pizza <br />
Papa Joe's <br />
Texas Roadhouse <br />
Denny's <br />
Beef O'Brady <br />
Kobe <br />
Metro Burger <br />
Gator's Dockside </span><strong><span style="color: #009900;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Wednesday:</span></span></strong><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">5 & Diner <br />
Liam Fitzpatrick's <br />
Jersey Mike's </span><strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Saturday:</span></span></strong><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Crispers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Steak and Shake <br />
Denny's <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #330099;">Sunday:</span></strong> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Crave <br />
5 & Diner <br />
Dicky's BBQ <br />
Steak and Shake <br />
Jersey Mike's <br />
Melting Pot </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Hope your free meals make your dinner out with your kids a little more enjoyable. Even though you are saving money, I still recommend the mandatory glass of wine! </span></span></span>Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-66564588559439444452011-08-04T07:22:00.000-07:002011-08-04T07:55:32.582-07:00FREE Building ClassesI can't say that I love going to Home Depot and Lowe's. I usually go there for my basic home needs and for my garden. BUT I do love their <strong>FREE kids building programs!</strong> These are programs for children 5 and older and are held at least once a month at your local stores. This program is nationwide and not limited to Florida stores. Lucky for my kids, there is a Home Depot and Lowe's within 10 miles of my house.<br /><br />What are the kids building programs? They are different sessions where you and your kids can complete a simple building project together. The store supplies the kits free to the kids. We have made everything from bird houses to game boxes. They love the accomplishment of making something but the biggest reward is the time spent with their favorite adults. These programs are free but do require you register ahead of time.<br /><br />Here are the details:<br /><strong><br />Home Depot</strong><br />Home Depot's projects include everything from toolboxes, fire trucks and mail organizers, as well as more educational projects, such as a window birdhouse, bughouse or Declaration of Independence frame kit. In addition to the free project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin. This Saturday, August 6th, the kids will be making pencil boxes. Please be aware that this is for kids ages five through 12 years.<br /><br />If you want to sign up for this program for this <strong>Saturday, August 6th, it's from 9:00 AM -12:00 PM</strong> and the minimum age is 5. Please call your local store to sign up today!! What a great way to get back into school mode WHILE having fun and it won't cost you a dime!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?pn=Kids_Workshops&langId=-1&storeId=10051&ca">http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?pn=Kids_Workshops&langId=-1&storeId=10051&ca</a><br /><br /><strong>Lowe's<br /></strong>Lowe's program is similar to Home Depot but they reccommend that the kids be in first grade through fifth grade. Also, Lowe's projects are always made of wood. There are two school themed projects for the month of August. The first session of August is being held, <strong>August 13th, 2011, at 10:00 AM</strong>, where kids can make a school house photo holder. <strong>August 27th at 10:00 AM,</strong> the kids get to build a school locker. Unfortunately, the August 13 class is full at my local Lowe's. There was availability at neighboring Lowe's. You MUST register online in order to sign up for the class. Don't wait as the classes do fill up! Also, the first 50 kids to register and be present at the store at 10am will receive a kit, aprons and goggles, in addition to all the materials to make their project.<br /><br /><a href="http://lowesbuildandgrow.com/Home.aspx">http://lowesbuildandgrow.com/Home.aspx</a><br /><br />Remember that your child must be at least 5 years of age and accompanied by an adult who can assist with them with their project. You can't just be there on your phone while your child builds. Get in there and help and have fun with the kids!!!!Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-33238175117133973022011-08-04T05:03:00.000-07:002011-08-17T09:22:29.147-07:00Rivership Romance and Kids?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3S91QXp_4xk1MwyfRqTSWQ3LZ199kfWepvscVag8laSoJggkBaVx37mxNIY3x_DUIDEUh-NfFKVLOth8LdiWSxMCZN2imW60v-vnLaA9fxhJyiXDIReDpwzPVVcGvpvpd-PsRMgrdJn1w/s1600/Rivership+Romance.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 231px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641858595971929298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3S91QXp_4xk1MwyfRqTSWQ3LZ199kfWepvscVag8laSoJggkBaVx37mxNIY3x_DUIDEUh-NfFKVLOth8LdiWSxMCZN2imW60v-vnLaA9fxhJyiXDIReDpwzPVVcGvpvpd-PsRMgrdJn1w/s320/Rivership+Romance.jpg" /></a>This just in....coupon spotted in the "Look Local" book gives you $7 off each adult ticket.
<br /><---Looky Looky to the left to save $$$. You don't have to have coupon in hand, just have to mention it when making your reservation!!!
<br />
<br />I have to admit it. I have never been interested in going on the <strong>Rivership Romance</strong> in Sanford. It just doesn't sound fun to me or romantic, as the name would suggest. For those of you who LOVE the Rivership Romance, my apologies. It's just that having dinner on a boat as I cruise around Sanford just doesn't do it for me. But just heard about a fun kid event as a very reasonable price and you know me and my boys! So, Rivership Romance is adding kid fun (Gatorland will be there!) and games to that boat ride and I am reconsidering.
<br />
<br />Rivership Romance will be having a Family Fun Day Cruise on September 25, 2011 and the boys and I will be there.
<br />
<br /><strong>Here are the details from Rivership Romance:
<br /></strong>
<br />Come unwind and enjoy some great family fun. Bring the family out for some affordable family fun and enjoy a taste of some "Real Florida" cruising!
<br />
<br />Family Fun Day Cruise...
<br />
<br />Sunday, September 25th, 2011....Boarding 3:30; Cruising 4-6pm
<br />
<br />friendly entertainment....Kids activities...Face painting...Animals from GATORLAND...Affordable family friendly menu to purchase from...Great river views!
<br />All this for only $15 adults; $10 children +tax & port fee.
<br />
<br />Call the Rivershop Romance office at <strong>1-800-423-7401</strong> to make reservations.
<br />Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-52940134740077025972011-08-01T17:10:00.000-07:002011-08-04T06:07:43.732-07:00Take me out to the ballgame WITH the kids!Are you dying to go to a MLB game but don't want to pay the $$$$? I stumbled upon something a couple years ago that is offered by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. It's a Family Fun Day. It's for all the Sunday home games. The total price for the ticket is $26.50 and that is all the fees included with the ticket. That price includes a voucher for a hot dog, snack, and Pepsi product. We even got to go down to the field and run the bases at the end of the game! Such a fun day! We have gone in the past to see the Yankees play the Rays but unfortunately this year the Yankees aren't playing on any of those Sundays! The stinky Red Soxs are playing one of these games for those of you who are brave enough to cheer for them!<br /><br />Anyway, it's a great deal and they have fun free things all over the stadium for the kids if the baseball game, hot dog and soda aren't enough! My boys, big and small, loved it! Games start at 1:40 PM.<br /><br />To buy tickets, go to <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/tb/ticketing/family_fun_days.jsp">http://mlb.mlb.com/tb/ticketing/family_fun_days.jsp</a> and click on the green button next to the game you wish to attend and fill in the number of tickets needed in the "Family Fun Day" box.<br /><br />As part of the St. Petersburg Times Family Fun Days, the Rays feature special promotional giveaways which are given to the first 10,000 kids 14 and under in attendance. Postgame, kids can run the bases or take part in a wiffle ball home run derby in left field. The giveaway on the next family fun day is a Back to School Kit. How convenient!<br /><br /><a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/tb/ticketing/family_fun_days.jsp">http://mlb.mlb.com/tb/ticketing/family_fun_days.jsp</a>Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-60566330525399829452011-08-01T14:07:00.001-07:002011-08-04T06:08:14.739-07:00School Supplies for pennies....I just went shopping for my kids school supplies and scooped up some deals! Since I already have made a list for my deals, I figured I would share. See below....<br /><br /><br />Also, are you sitting here thinking "I have no idea what school supplies we need?" Well, if you go to your local Office Max, they have a convenient display with all local school supply lists. I loved this as my husband was complaining that our new school had a longer supply list. One look at the other school list and he was proved wrong. Our new school has a shorter list! Ha Ha!<br /><br /><br />So, here are some of the best deals by store for this week ending August 6th:<br /><br /><span style="color:#990000;">Walgreens:</span><br />Composition notebooks 59 cents<br />Colored pencils 39 cents<br />2 pocket folders with prongs 11 cents<br />Notebook filler paper 59 cents<br />6 pack of Papermate highlighters 39 cents<br />24 pack of crayons 59 cents<br />1 subject notebooks 39 cents<br />2 pack of pink erasers 29 cents with coupon in store circular<br />Fiskar Scissors 79 cents with coupon in store circular<br />3 pack of glue sticks or one bottle of liquid glue 59 cents with coupon in store circular<br />4 pack of dry erase markers 99 cents with coupon in store circular<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#6600cc;">Office Max:</span><br />Composition notebooks 50 cents<br />Post It Notes, buy two, get one, plus coupon in store for free totebag with purchase of two)<br />Rulers 1 cent<br />Crayons 1 cent<br />Pencils 10 cents<br />3 pack of glue sticks 50 cents<br />Dry erase markers, Buy two, get two<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Staples</span><br />2 pocket folders 1 cent<br />2 pack Sharpie markers 25 cents<br />2 pack pink erasers 10 centsBetsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-80526058098654204842011-08-01T13:33:00.001-07:002011-08-04T06:08:52.120-07:00Tuesday, Aug 2, 2011<br />Lights! Color! Action! Make Believe Theater at the East Branch Library<br />Lights! Color! Action! Storyteller and puppeteer Katie Adams performs Mariposa Martinez and More Tales from Latin America . Stories with a dash of Spanish words, and a splash of colorful shadow puppets. Two special school age shows at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the East Branch Library (Oviedo). Free, for kids grades K-5. Call your local library for more<br />http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf<br /><br />Wednesday, Aug 3, 2011<br />All A-Board: Board Games & Fun at East Branch Library<br />3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Cool off inside and play crazy board games with other school age kids (K-5th grade). Join the fun at East Branch Library (Oviedo) Confetti Club. Free. Call your local library for more information.<br /><br />Wednesday, Aug 3, 2011<br />Lights! Color! Action! Make Believe Theater at the Central Branch Library<br />Lights! Color! Action! Storyteller and puppeteer Katie Adams performs Mariposa Martinez and More Tales from Latin America . Stories with a dash of Spanish words, and a splash of colorful shadow puppets. Two special school age shows at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Central Branch Library (Casselberry). Free, for kids grades K-5. Call your local library for more information.<br />http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf<br />Wednesday, Aug 3, 2011<br />Lights! Color! Action! Make Believe Theater at the Northwest Branch Library<br />Lights! Color! Action! Storyteller and puppeteer Katie Adams performs Mariposa Martinez and More Tales from Latin America . Stories with a dash of Spanish words, and a splash of colorful shadow puppets. A special school age evening show at 7:00 p.m.at the Northwest Branch Library (Lake Mary). Free, for kids grades K-5. Call your local library for more information.<br />http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf<br />Through August 10th:<br />One World, Many Stories - Children's Summer Reading at the Library<br />Calling all kids who love adventure and going new places! Get your reading log, and read your way around the world and through the summer by signing up for One World, Many Stories Summer Reading. Win a prize for reading 20 days! Registration begins June 1st at your local branch library. Please check in for this program at your local Seminole County Library.<br /><br />Ongoing events:<br />Looking for a free and safe activity for your kids this summer? Freebowling.com thought you might be. They have set up a free bowling program, with the intended effort of keeping kids entertained this summer in a safe, secure and fun way. They are also doing this to say thank you to the individuals, churches, schools and other organizations that utilize their bowling centers in the spring, fall, and winter seasons (freebowling.com).<br />To make this happen, participating bowling centers are pairing up with schools, and allowing kids (there is an age limit set by each individual center) to play two free bowling games, everyday this summer (it is not clear if shoes are included – check with the participating bowling alley you sign up with).<br />There are guidelines and restrictions to this offer, but if you live in an area where bowling centers are participating, sign up! There are no fees, signing up is easy, and there is even the opportunity to purchase a bowling pass for the entire summer for 4 family members at the cost of $19.95 per family (freebowling.com).<br />Guidelines and important information:<br />• You must have a participating bowling alley near you.<br />• Each bowling alley sets its own age restrictions.<br />• Each bowling alley sets its own date parameters for when this summer program begins and ends.<br />• Each bowling alley can set dates and hours where the promotion is not good.<br />• Parents must sign their children up - kids are not allowed to sign themselves up.<br />• A portion of every family 4 pack (19.95 per family) will be donated to build youth activities in the fall.<br />To sign up:<br />• Find a participating bowling alley near you by going to www.kidsbowlfree.com<br />• Click on the Bowling Center’sLink<br />• Fill in the required information<br />• If you would like to purchase the family pack good for 4 people (2 games each a day per person @ 19.95 per family), you can also do this here.<br />• You will be sent emails each week with your free bowling coupons for that week (they will be dated). Or you can log into your account, and print your coupons at anytime.Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-18005462809074398402011-08-01T13:05:00.000-07:002011-08-01T14:33:39.307-07:00What's going on this week....<strong>Tuesday, Aug 2, 2011<br /></strong>Lights! Color! Action! Make Believe Theater at the East Branch Library<br />Lights! Color! Action! Storyteller and puppeteer Katie Adams performs Mariposa Martinez and More Tales from Latin America . Stories with a dash of Spanish words, and a splash of colorful shadow puppets. Two special school age shows at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the East Branch Library (Oviedo). Free, for kids grades K-5. Call your local library for more information.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf">http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf</a><br /><br /><strong>Wednesday, Aug 3, 2011<br /></strong>All A-Board: Board Games & Fun at East Branch Library<br />3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Cool off inside and play crazy board games with other school age kids (K-5th grade). Join the fun at East Branch Library (Oviedo) Confetti Club. Free. Call your local library for more information.<br /><br /><strong>Wednesday, Aug 3, 2011<br /></strong>Lights! Color! Action! Make Believe Theater at the Central Branch Library<br />Lights! Color! Action! Storyteller and puppeteer Katie Adams performs Mariposa Martinez and More Tales from Latin America . Stories with a dash of Spanish words, and a splash of colorful shadow puppets. Two special school age shows at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Central Branch Library (Casselberry). Free, for kids grades K-5. Call your local library for more information.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf">http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf</a><br /><br /><strong>Wednesday, Aug 3, 2011<br /></strong>Lights! Color! Action! Make Believe Theater at the Northwest Branch Library<br />Lights! Color! Action! Storyteller and puppeteer Katie Adams performs Mariposa Martinez and More Tales from Latin America . Stories with a dash of Spanish words, and a splash of colorful shadow puppets. A special school age evening show at 7:00 p.m.at the Northwest Branch Library (Lake Mary). Free, for kids grades K-5. Call your local library for more information.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf">http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/misc/ann_attach/22_Mariposa_Martinez_Poster_-_East.pdf</a><br /><br /><strong>Through August 10th:<br /></strong>One World, Many Stories - Children's Summer Reading at the Library<br />Calling all kids who love adventure and going new places! Get your reading log, and read your way around the world and through the summer by signing up for One World, Many Stories Summer Reading. Win a prize for reading 20 days! Registration begins June 1st at your local branch library. Please check in for this program at your local Seminole County Library.<br /><br /><strong>Ongoing events:<br /></strong>Looking for a free and safe activity for your kids this summer? Freebowling.com thought you might be. They have set up a free bowling program, with the intended effort of keeping kids entertained this summer in a safe, secure and fun way. They are also doing this to say thank you to the individuals, churches, schools and other organizations that utilize their bowling centers in the spring, fall, and winter seasons (freebowling.com).<br />To make this happen, participating bowling centers are pairing up with schools, and allowing kids (there is an age limit set by each individual center) to play two free bowling games, everyday this summer (it is not clear if shoes are included – check with the participating bowling alley you sign up with).<br />There are guidelines and restrictions to this offer, but if you live in an area where bowling centers are participating, sign up! There are no fees, signing up is easy, and there is even the opportunity to purchase a bowling pass for the entire summer for 4 family members at the cost of $19.95 per family (freebowling.com).<br /><br />Guidelines and important information:<br />• You must have a participating bowling alley near you.<br />• Each bowling alley sets its own age restrictions.<br />• Each bowling alley sets its own date parameters for when this summer program begins and ends.<br />• Each bowling alley can set dates and hours where the promotion is not good.<br />• Parents must sign their children up - kids are not allowed to sign themselves up.<br />• A portion of every family 4 pack (19.95 per family) will be donated to build youth activities in the fall.<br />To sign up:<br />• Find a participating bowling alley near you by going to www.kidsbowlfree.com<br />• Click on the Bowling Center’sLink<br />• Fill in the required information<br />• If you would like to purchase the family pack good for 4 people (2 games each a day per person @ 19.95 per family), you can also do this here.<br />• You will be sent emails each week with your free bowling coupons for that week (they will be dated). Or you can log into your account, and print your coupons at anytime.Betsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6155340332718315647.post-65328357374607897542011-08-01T12:33:00.000-07:002011-08-01T14:04:35.338-07:00First Day on the PlaygroundWell, I have to start somewhere and here I am. It's like the first day of school. I am not sure what to expect but like years past, I am optimistic for a good school year. In this case, I am hoping for a good blog.<br /><br />First, I hope this blog log will be a source of information for events and deals for the Orlando metro area to include Seminole (shout out), Orange and Volusia counties. It started because so many of my friends told me I am already doing this but just not in this format. So, I hope to continue to inform my old friends and new friends on all the good things going around and also how to do them without incurring too much cost. If you know me, you know I love a deal!!!!<br /><br />For those of you who don't know me, I am a Mom to two wild and wonderful boys who don't like sitting still. I'm resourceful and always looking for things to do. I have been married for ten years to the most wonderful man and the biggest Yankee fan I know, who doesn't like sitting still either!<br /><br />So, here goes nothing. I hope you find my blog interesting and helps you have more fun things to do in your life while saving some $$ at the same time.<br /><br />BetsyBetsy and "the boys"http://www.blogger.com/profile/03222290962739376177noreply@blogger.com1